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Through a gripping 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.

Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.