Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, 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 bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and several K's.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
