Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of 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 early going, when a double, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
The starter went 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 milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
