Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh 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 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks 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 second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
