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 clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit 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 Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning 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 fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and several K's.
This victory signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.