Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came 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 early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
