Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades

Through a gripping 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

  • JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
  • Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
  • After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
  • Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

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 multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.

The win marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.

Stephanie Gay
Stephanie Gay

A passionate software engineer with over a decade of experience in front-end development and a love for sharing knowledge through writing.