Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years

Through a gripping extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
  • Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
  • After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
  • Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.

Jeremiah Parker
Jeremiah Parker

A tech enthusiast and lifestyle blogger passionate about sharing innovative ideas and practical advice for modern living.