🔗 Share this article

Through a gripping 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls 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, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.