Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades

During an intense 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, 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, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.

Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.

Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.