Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners 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.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
