Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
