Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
