Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
