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Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Game

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

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

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter'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

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

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

The only run came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.

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