Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.
