Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades

In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 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.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.

Kirby went 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 place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.