Mariners Bullpen Shines in Epic 15-Inning Playoff Thriller

Three decades after Randy Johnson's legendary relief outing in the 1995 ALCS, the Mariners' bullpen has etched its name in franchise history once again. In a winner-take-all ALDS Game 5 that proved to be the longest in MLB postseason history, the Mariners' relievers stepped up in a big way to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Tigers.

The hero of the night was 6-foot-7 right-hander Logan Gilbert, who made his first career relief appearance, throwing two scoreless innings to open the top of the 10th inning. Gilbert, known for his "Walter" alter ego, pitched on just two days' rest after a gem in Game 3. His slider and splitter were again devastating, as he allowed just three hits and struck out two.

Gilbert wasn't the only Mariners starter to contribute out of the bullpen. Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance since 2016, threw the final 1.1 innings to earn the win. Five Mariners relievers combined to cover the final 9.1 innings, with Eduard Bazardo, Matt Brash, and Andrés Muñoz also delivering clutch outings.

It was a historic night in Seattle, with the Mariners' bullpen rising to the occasion in a game that will be remembered as one of the greatest in franchise history.