Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for 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 substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter 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 zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.