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During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Matchup

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

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

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
• After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

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

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 Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.

Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.

The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.