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Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Game

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.

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

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win signifies a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.