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Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers 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 big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

15th 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 a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

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

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.

Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the lead.

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

The win marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.