Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.
The win signifies a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
