🔗 Share this article

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set 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 line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.

Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.