🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series. Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001. The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home. 15th Inning Breakthrough JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield. Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases. After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third. Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game. Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames. The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single. Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th. Opening Hurlers Duel The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings. The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's. The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners. The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage. Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and several K's. This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.