🔗 Share this article

In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.

Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.

The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.