Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years

Through a gripping 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.

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

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense 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 run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

The win signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.