In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring 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 repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
