Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
