Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
