Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning 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 pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
