Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.
Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
