🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades Through a gripping extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series. Key Moments in the Marathon Game Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure 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 showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home. 15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield. Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases. After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to take third. Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game. Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames. The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit. Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th. Starting Pitchers Battle The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames. The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts. His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side. The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead. Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts. The win signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.