ð Share this article Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades In a dramatic 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series. Key Moments in the Extended Game Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001. The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto. Final Inning Breakthrough The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield. Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases. After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake 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 game. Key Runs and Defensive Performances Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning. Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit. Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th. Starting Pitchers Battle The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings. The left-hander, 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 postseason record with back-to-back K's. The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners. The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead. Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.