Mariners' Jorge Polanco Says He Has 'So Much Gratitude' After Walk-Off ALDS Single

It took 15 innings in the decisive Game 5 against the Detroit Tigers for the Seattle Mariners to secure their first trip to the American League Championship Series in 24 years.

Jorge Polanco, who delivered the walk-off RBI single in the bottom of the 15th on Friday night, was full of nothing but appreciation for being part of such a special moment.

"I have so much gratitude," Polanco told reporters after the win.

Tigers vs. Mariners (10/10/2025)

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The Mariners loaded the bases with one out in the bottom of the 15th when Polanco came to the plate. He worked a six-pitch at-bat against Tigers reliever Tommy Kahnle and hit the final changeup he saw into right field to secure the win.

Polanco, who went 1-for-6 with three strikeouts and one walk on Friday, had two heroic moments in the series. He hit two solo homers of Tarik Skubal in Game 2, helping the Mariners secure a 3-2 win that evened the series going back to Detroit.

Friday was an offensive struggle for both teams. They combined for just 16 hits in 15 innings and were 3-for-20 with runners in scoring position.

Even though the game took longer than Mariners fans would have liked and probably added many gray hairs to their heads, the wait was worth it to get this victory.

The Mariners will play in the ALCS for the first time since 2001. They are four wins away from reaching the World Series for the first time in franchise history.

Next up for Seattle will be a showdown with the Toronto Blue Jays. The two teams will play Game 1 of the ALCS at Rogers Centre on Sunday at 8:00 p.m. ET.