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During an intense 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts

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

The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, 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 playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.

The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.