Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
