Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion 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
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
