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In a dramatic extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.

The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.