Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

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