Mariners Edge 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 decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it 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 grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and several K's.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
