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In a dramatic extra-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game

Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
• Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let Crawford to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to end the contest.

Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances

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

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

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Duel

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

Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.

The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.

This victory signifies a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.