Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering 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 in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.