Seattle Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered 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 American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
