Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

  • The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
  • Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting 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 intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.

David Morales
David Morales

An avid mountaineer and gear enthusiast with over a decade of experience in outdoor adventures and product testing.