Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
