Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades

Through a gripping 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.