Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades

In a dramatic 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding 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.

Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.