Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades

In a dramatic 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
  • Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
  • After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

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

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

Starting Pitchers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.

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

Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

The win marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.

Jennifer Diaz
Jennifer Diaz

A tech enthusiast and lifestyle blogger with a passion for uncovering emerging trends and sharing actionable insights.