Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.
