Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.