Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for 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.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.
