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In a dramatic 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Battle

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

Skubal, 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 came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a extended postseason absence.