Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted 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 achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.