Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

  • JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
  • Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
  • After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
  • Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Battle

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the championship after a extended postseason absence.

Melinda Ramirez
Melinda Ramirez

A tech enthusiast and lifestyle blogger passionate about sharing insights on digital innovation and mindful living.