Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
