Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
