Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
