Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades

During an intense extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
  • Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
  • After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.

Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered 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 zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.

Deborah Porter
Deborah Porter

A tech enthusiast and certified Microsoft expert with over a decade of experience in software training and digital efficiency.