The Seattle Mariners delivered a postseason thriller for the ages Friday night, outlasting the Detroit Tigers 3-2 in a marathon 15-inning Game 5 to clinch their first trip to the American League Championship Series in 24 years. The walk-off win, capped by Jorge Polanco’s clutch single, has electrified a city hungry for October glory.
A Game for the History Books
This wasn’t just any playoff win—it was the
longest winner-take-all postseason game in MLB history. The drama unfolded over 472 pitches, with both teams locked in a tense battle that saw the Mariners leave 12 runners stranded before finally breaking through in the bottom of the 15th inning.
With one out and the bases loaded, Polanco lined a single to right field off Tigers reliever Tommy Kahnle, sending J.P. Crawford home and T-Mobile Park into a frenzy. The moment was the culmination of a gritty, resilient performance by a Mariners squad that simply refused to quit.
“I know we played a long game, but this team never gave up,” Polanco told reporters after the game. “I know there is a lot of emotion, but we are always trying to keep it simple. I’m just trying to go out there and play and trying to get the win.”
Mariners End 24-Year ALCS Drought
The victory marks the Mariners’ first appearance in the ALCS since 2001, ending one of the longest championship series droughts in baseball. Seattle fans, who have endured decades of heartbreak and near-misses, now have a team that’s rewriting the franchise’s October narrative.
Next up: a showdown with the AL East champion Toronto Blue Jays, with Game 1 set for Sunday night in Toronto. The series promises high drama, as both teams bring potent lineups and deep pitching staffs to the table.
Key Moments and Standouts
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J.P. Crawford sparked the winning rally with a leadoff single in the 15th.
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Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, and
Julio Rodríguez was intentionally walked to load the bases, setting the stage for Polanco’s heroics.
- Mariners pitching held the Tigers to just two runs across 15 innings, showcasing the depth and resilience of Seattle’s bullpen.
What’s Next: ALCS Preview
The Mariners now face a formidable Blue Jays squad in the ALCS. Toronto, known for its explosive offense and strong starting rotation, will host the first two games. Seattle’s ability to manufacture runs and play aggressive, opportunistic baseball—hallmarks of their 2025 campaign—will be put to the test.
Mariners Mania Sweeps Seattle
The city is buzzing with excitement, and for good reason. After years of rebuilding and heartbreak, the Mariners are four wins away from their first-ever World Series appearance. The team’s blend of young stars and veteran leadership has captured the imagination of fans and injected new life into Seattle’s sports scene.
Takeaway: The Mariners’ epic win over the Tigers is more than just a playoff victory—it’s a statement that this team is ready to make history. With the ALCS on deck, Seattle’s October magic is just getting started.
Sources
1. Detroit Tigers vs. Seattle Mariners Results, Stats, and Recap - October 10, 2025 Gametracker
2. Official Seattle Mariners Website | MLB.com
3. AL Championship Series Preview: Mariners vs. Blue Jays
4. The Seattle Mariners haven't stolen bases like this in decades
5. Detroit Tigers at Seattle Mariners Game Story, Scores/Highlights - 10/10/2025
6. Seattle Mariners shutting down ROOT Sports, shifting TV ... - GeekWire
7. Condensed Game: DET@SEA - Game 5 | 10/10/2025 | MLB.com
