Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
