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In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end 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 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

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

Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.

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

The win signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.