Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, 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 contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
