UPDATE: In a thrilling turn of events, the Seattle Mariners triumphed over the Detroit Tigers 3-2 in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on October 8, 2023, tying the series at one game each. With the score deadlocked in the eighth inning, Julio Rodriguez delivered a crucial tiebreaking RBI double, sending the 47,431 fans at T-Mobile Park into a frenzy.
The decisive moment came with one out in the bottom of the eighth when fellow teammate Cal Raleigh doubled, setting the stage for Rodriguez’s game-winning hit. This victory is particularly significant as it shifts momentum in the best-of-five series, now headed to Detroit for Game 3.
Earlier in the game, Jorge Polanco showcased his power with two home runs, becoming the fourth Mariners player to achieve a multi-homer postseason game, a feat previously accomplished by legends like Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martinez.
The Mariners initially took the lead with Polanco’s solo shot in the fourth inning, and he followed up with another homer off reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal in the sixth. However, the Tigers managed to level the score in the eighth, with Gleyber Torres starting the rally and Spencer Torkelson driving home the tying run.
Mariners’ closer Andres Munoz secured the win by retiring the Tigers in order, bouncing back after a tough outing the previous night. Mariners’ starter Luis Castillo delivered a commendable performance, allowing no runs for 4 2/3 innings, while Skubal struck out nine in his seven innings of work.
As the series moves to Detroit, Logan Gilbert will take the mound for Seattle in Game 3 against Jack Flaherty of the Tigers. Gilbert hopes to improve upon his previous postseason experience, aiming for a critical win to push Seattle closer to the AL Championship Series.
This latest victory not only revitalizes the Mariners’ playoff aspirations but also underscores the intense competition between these two teams. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the series continues to unfold.