Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw 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 face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
