Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
