Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
