🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades Through a gripping 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS. Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001. Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto. Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield. Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second. After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance. Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest. Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning. The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single. Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings. Opening Hurlers Battle The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings. The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's. His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side. Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage. Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.