Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades

Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS 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 counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

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

Starting Pitchers Duel

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

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.

The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

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