Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- 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, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
