Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
