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Through a gripping 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.

Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.

Final Inning Breakthrough

• The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
• Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
• After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
• Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

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

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.

Starting Pitchers Battle

The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

The left-hander, a Cy Young Award 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 seven consecutive strikeouts.

His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.

The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.