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In a dramatic 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.

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

Final Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

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

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

The only run came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.

The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.