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In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending 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 showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

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

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

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 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

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