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In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Battle

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the Mariners.

Kirby opened with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

The win marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.