🔗 Share this article

Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage.

The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.