Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit 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 Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings 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 Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
