Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
  • Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
  • After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.

Todd Wilson
Todd Wilson

Tech writer and AI researcher passionate about demystifying complex technologies for a broader audience.

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