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Through a gripping 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
• After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.