🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS. Key Moments in the Marathon Game The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings 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 pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home. Final Inning Breakthrough The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield. Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases. After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to advance. Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest. Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning. Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single. Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings. Opening Hurlers Duel The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames. The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's 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 sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side. Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage. The starter went five-plus innings 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 move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.