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During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

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

Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

Skubal, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

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

Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.