Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
