🔗 Share this article Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years Through a gripping 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS. Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades. The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto. 15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield. Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second. After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let the runner to take third. Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game. Key Runs and Defensive Performances A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning. Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single. Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings. Starting Pitchers Battle The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames. The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's. His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side. Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead. The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.