Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years

During an intense extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
• After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.

Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.