Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score 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 hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
