Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
