Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly 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, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
