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In a dramatic 15-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered 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 ALDS.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

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

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

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

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.

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

This victory signifies a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a extended postseason absence.