Seattle Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
Seattle 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 Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
