Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
