Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

During an intense 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.

Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.