🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS. Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades. The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto. 15th Inning Breakthrough The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield. Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second. After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third. Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the game. Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning. Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single. Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th. Opening Hurlers Battle The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames. Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's. The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners. Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage. The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's. The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.