Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
