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Through a gripping extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.

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

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. 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 deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.

The win signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.