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Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 win 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 major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.