Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn 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 contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

  • The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
  • Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
  • After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to advance.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the middle frames.

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

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.

Kirby went over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.

The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.

Michelle Smith
Michelle Smith

A passionate digital artist and tech enthusiast, sharing creative insights and practical tips to inspire innovation.