Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a extended postseason absence.