🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS. Key Moments in the Extended Matchup The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001. Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto. 15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field. Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases. After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance. Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest. Key Runs and Defensive Performances A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames. 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 hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings. Opening Hurlers Duel The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings. Skubal, a pitching honor 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 occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a run for the Mariners. Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead. Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's. The win marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.