Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend 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.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred 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 allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
