Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years

In a dramatic 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to end the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.