Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames 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 Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
