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During an intense 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.

15th Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

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

Seattle tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, 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 back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.

Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.