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In a dramatic extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.