Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
