Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected 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 two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
