🔗 Share this article Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years In a dramatic extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS. Key Moments in the Extended Game Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning 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 championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home. Final Inning Breakthrough The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield. Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases. After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance. Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest. Key Runs and Defensive Performances A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning. The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit. Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th. Starting Pitchers Duel Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames. Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts. The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners. Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead. The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts. This victory signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.