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Through a gripping extra-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Marathon Game

The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
• After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
• Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances

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

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.

Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Battle

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

The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.

His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.

Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.

The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

The win marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.