Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

During an intense 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
  • Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
  • After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
  • Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Battle

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.

Cassandra Boyle
Cassandra Boyle

A passionate horticulturist with over a decade of experience in organic gardening and landscape design.