Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
