Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners 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 hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.