Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter 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 strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
