Context:

Jorge Polanco and Cole Young delivered back-to-back solo home runs in the ninth inning, leading the Seattle Mariners to an 8-4 victory over the Detroit Tigers and completing a three-game sweep. The Mariners showcased a powerful offensive display throughout the series, outscoring the Tigers 35-14, marking their highest runs in a three-game series since 2002. Despite the Tigers' early lead due to an error, Seattle's lineup, featuring contributions from Julio Rodriguez, Randy Arozarena, and Mitch Garver, proved too formidable. Matt Brash earned the win with two strikeouts in the eighth inning, while Detroit's Tommy Kahnle struggled in the ninth, allowing three runs without recording an out. The series concluded as the Tigers head into the All-Star break on a four-game losing streak, while Seattle sends five players to the Midsummer Classic for the first time in two decades.

Dive Deeper:

• Jorge Polanco and Cole Young hit consecutive home runs in the ninth inning, helping the Seattle Mariners secure an 8-4 win over the Detroit Tigers and sweep the series. This pivotal ninth inning saw four runs scored by Seattle, effectively breaking the 4-all tie and ensuring victory.

• The Seattle Mariners unleashed a formidable offensive performance against the major league-leading Tigers, scoring a total of 35 runs over the three-game series. This marks the highest run total for the Mariners in a three-game series since 2002, demonstrating their offensive prowess.

• Despite an early advantage by the Tigers, who capitalized on a throwing error by Luke Raley to score two unearned runs in the first inning, Seattle's robust lineup quickly regained control of the game. Julio Rodriguez, Randy Arozarena, and Mitch Garver each contributed solo home runs, further extending the Mariners' lead.

• Matt Brash played a crucial role in securing the win for Seattle, striking out two batters in the eighth inning and maintaining momentum for his team. In contrast, Tommy Kahnle of the Tigers struggled in the ninth, allowing three runs on two hits and a walk without recording an out.

• Seattle's Cal Raleigh, despite going 0 for 2, made significant milestone achievements, including setting an AL-record with 38 homers before the All-Star Game, nearly matching Barry Bonds’ 2001 record. Raleigh also joined a select group of players, including Babe Ruth, with at least 38 homers and 10 stolen bases in the first 96 games.

• The Detroit Tigers are experiencing a challenging period, entering the All-Star break with a four-game losing streak. Despite their current struggles, the team boasts a franchise-record of six All-Stars headed to Atlanta, including starting pitcher Tarik Skubal.

• For the first time since 2003, the Seattle Mariners are sending five players to the Midsummer Classic, highlighting the team's strong performance and individual achievements this season. This includes Cal Raleigh, who is the first catcher to lead the majors outright in homers at the All-Star break since Johnny Bench in 1972.