Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
