Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years

During an intense 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners 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

• JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts 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, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.

The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.

The win signifies a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a extended postseason absence.