Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
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 AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
