🔗 Share this article

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

The only run occurred in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.