Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
