Mariners Game 5 vs Tigers: ALDS Schedule, Pitching Matchup, Predictions & How to Watch

The Seattle Mariners and Detroit Tigers are set for an epic Game 5 showdown in the ALDS, with a trip to the ALCS on the line. After Seattle’s 8-4 victory in Game 4, momentum swings in their favor, but Detroit’s home-field advantage could be decisive.

This winner-takes-all clash features a marquee pitching duel between Bryce Miller and Tarik Skubal, promising high-stakes drama. With both teams fighting for postseason survival, expect a nail-biting conclusion to this thrilling series.

First pitch is scheduled for October 12 at 7:07 PM ET at Comerica Park, broadcast live on ESPN. The outcome will determine who advances to face either the Yankees or Royals in the ALCS.

Mariners vs Tigers Game 5: ALDS Showdown Schedule and Broadcast Details

The decisive Game 5 of the American League Division Series between the Seattle Mariners and Detroit Tigers is set for October 12, 2025, at Comerica Park in Detroit. First pitch is scheduled for 7:07 PM ET, with national coverage on ESPN and streaming available through ESPN+ and MLB.tv. This winner-takes-all matchup will determine which team advances to face either the Yankees or Royals in the AL Championship Series.

Ticket prices reflect the high-stakes nature of this contest, ranging from $150 for upper-deck seats to over $500 for premium locations behind home plate. The Tigers’ home stadium is expected to be at capacity, with Mariners fans traveling well despite the cross-country trip.

Key viewing options for Game 5

• Television: ESPN (national broadcast)
• Streaming: ESPN+, MLB.tv, fuboTV
• Radio: Local Mariners and Tigers radio networks
• International: MLB International through selected broadcast partners

Game 5’s timing couldn’t be more dramatic – evening start allows maximum viewership while the cooler Detroit temperatures might favor pitchers. Watch how the shadows impact batter vision as sunset approaches.

Pitching Matchup Analysis: Miller vs Skubal in Winner-Take-All Clash

The Mariners will send right-hander Bryce Miller to the mound opposite Detroit’s lefty ace Tarik Skubal in what shapes up as a premier pitching duel. Miller sports a 3.48 postseason ERA with 21 strikeouts in 18 innings, while Skubal has been nearly unhittable at home with a 1.98 ERA over his last six Comerica Park starts.

The bullpen scenario favors Seattle slightly, with their relievers posting a combined 2.89 ERA this postseason compared to Detroit’s 3.45 mark. However, both managers have suggested they won’t hesitate to use their entire staff in this elimination game.

Skubal’s slider against right-handed Mariners bats could be the key matchup to watch. Seattle hits just .218 against left-handed sliders this season – if Skubal establishes that early, it might be a long night for the Mariners.

Key Players Who Could Decide Game 5

Beyond the pitchers, several impact players could swing the outcome of this decisive game:

For the Mariners

• Julio Rodríguez: The superstar center fielder is batting .346 in the series with 2 home runs
• Cal Raleigh: Seattle’s power-hitting catcher has driven in 7 runs this postseason
• Andrés Muñoz: Flamethrowing closer with 101 mph fastball has 4 saves in October

For the Tigers

• Riley Greene: Detroit’s leadoff hitter has reached base in 8 straight postseason games
• Spencer Torkelson: First baseman with 3 homers this series, including the Game 3 walk-off
• Jason Foley: Setup man with dominant sinker has stranded all 5 inherited runners

Don’t sleep on defensive specialists like Seattle’s J.P. Crawford or Detroit’s Javier Báez – in tight games, defensive gems often prove just as crucial as offensive fireworks.

ALCS Implications: What’s at Stake for Both Franchises

The winner advances to face the Yankees-Royals series victor in the American League Championship Series beginning October 14. For the Mariners, it would mark their second ALCS appearance in three years, while the Tigers haven’t reached this stage since their 2014 World Series run.

Potential ALCS schedule scenarios:

• If Mariners win: Would open ALCS on road against NYY but at home vs KC
• If Tigers win: Would host Game 1 regardless of opponent due to better regular season record

The stakes extend beyond this season – Seattle seeks validation for their rebuild while Detroit aims to complete their surprising turnaround from 2023’s 96-loss campaign.

The pressure dynamics fascinate me – Seattle carries expectations as favorites while Detroit plays with house money after exceeding preseason predictions. Which mindset proves more advantageous in a Game 5?

Weather Conditions and Ballpark Factors

Forecasts call for crisp October baseball weather in Detroit – temperatures around 58°F at first pitch dropping to the low 50s by late innings. The partly cloudy skies shouldn’t affect visibility, though the cool air could suppress some long fly balls.

Comerica Park’s dimensions favor pitchers slightly with its deep power alleys (398 feet to left-center, 420 to right-center). The marine layer that sometimes impacts Seattle’s T-Mobile Park won’t be a factor in this road game.

Key ballpark considerations:

• Comerica’s spacious outfield could limit extra-base hits
• Colder temperatures typically benefit pitchers
• No roof means weather won’t delay game but could affect player comfort

Interesting historical note – teams hosting Game 5 at home have won 9 of the last 12 ALDS winner-take-all games. That home cooking statistic might give Detroit supporters some extra confidence.

Expert Predictions and Betting Insights

Oddsmakers slightly favor Seattle with moneyline odds around -120 compared to Detroit’s +110. The over/under sits at 7.5 runs, reflecting anticipation of a pitchers’ duel. Most analysts predict a tight contest potentially decided by bullpen management.

Our staff prediction: Mariners win 4-3 with Raleigh delivering a go-ahead RBI double in the 7th inning off Detroit’s bullpen.

If you’re betting props, consider the under on total runs and Julio Rodríguez over 1.5 total bases – he’s feasted on left-handed pitching all season despite Skubal’s skills.