Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run 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 spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
