Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow 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 first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.
