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During an intense extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.

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

Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

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

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, 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 second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the home side.

Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.

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

This victory signifies a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.