Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

In a dramatic 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering 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 franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

  • The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
  • Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
  • After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.

Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.

Paula Lopez
Paula Lopez

A passionate beer sommelier and homebrewer with over a decade of experience in the craft beer scene, sharing insights and discoveries.