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In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

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

Kirby opened 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 the visitors the advantage.

Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.