Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.