Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks 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 two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
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Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez
Brian Hernandez