Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
