Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, 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 in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
