The Long Wait Is Over: Mariners Advance To ALCS After Marathon Extra-Inning Classic

In a thrilling culmination lasting four hours and 58 minutes, the longest winner-takes-all playoff game in MLB history concluded dramatically on Friday night.With bases loaded, one out, and a full count, Jorge Polanco—previously 0-for-5—connected with the 472nd pitch, propelling the Seattle Mariners to their first American League Championship Series (ALCS) in 24 years with a 3-2 victory over the Detroit Tigers.Reflecting on the intense match, Polanco shared, “There was a lot of emotion throughout the game. We strive to keep it simple and just play.”Polanco’s hit is now etched in franchise lore. Seattle's Game 5 win was underscored by sensational performances from its pitchers, including starters Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo, who pitched in relief for the first time.Despite Tarik Skubal’s remarkable six innings—yielding just one run with 13 strikeouts—Detroit could not secure the win, opening the door for the Mariners to tie the game. Leo Rivas, celebrating his 28th birthday, delivered a pivotal single, setting the stage for the dramatic finish.J.P. Crawford scored the winning run, launching jubilant celebrations as Seattle's quest for its inaugural World Series begins against the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday. (Photo: Wikipedia Commons)