Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended 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 first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
This victory marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
