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During an intense 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.