Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
Seattle will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, 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 early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.