Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly 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, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score 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 World Series after a long postseason absence.
