UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the AL Championship Series after a decisive 10-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on October 9, 2023. Julio Rodriguez and Jorge Polanco both launched three-run homers, propelling Seattle back home for Game 3 on Wednesday, where they need just two more wins to secure their first-ever trip to the World Series.
The Mariners dominated the game with a flurry of hits, while the Blue Jays struggled offensively, managing only six hits throughout the contest. Toronto’s star player, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., was held hitless for the series, going 0 for 3 with a walk, a concerning trend for the team as they face elimination.
Seattle’s offense ignited early, with Rodriguez crushing a homer just three batters into the game against rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage, who was making just his fifth big league start. The Mariners quickly built a 3-0 lead, but Toronto’s Nathan Lukes and Alejandro Kirk responded with RBI singles, tying the game at 3-3 in the second inning.
However, Polanco’s pivotal three-run blast in the fifth inning shifted momentum back to Seattle, putting them ahead 6-3. The Mariners continued to build their lead with additional runs, including a two-run shot from Josh Naylor in the seventh inning, further solidifying their position in the series.
Seattle’s bullpen has been remarkable, combining for nine scoreless innings over the first two games, allowing just one hit. Pitchers Eduard Bazardo, Carlos Vargas, and Emerson Hancock each contributed two strong innings, stifling Toronto’s attempts at a comeback.
The Toronto crowd, totaling 44,814, experienced disappointment on the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, as the Blue Jays’ struggles continued. Notably, outfielder Anthony Santander was scratched from the lineup due to a sore lower back, which further weakened the team’s offensive lineup. His replacement, Davis Schneider, went 0 for 3 with a walk, failing to provide the necessary spark.
As the Mariners prepare for Game 3, all eyes will be on Naylor, who appeared to be in discomfort after fouling a ball off his right foot in the first inning. Despite this, he insisted on staying in the game and ultimately delivered a crucial homer.
The stage is set for an intense Game 3 on Wednesday as the Mariners look to continue their strong performance and advance closer to breaking their World Series drought. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Toronto can rally and keep their postseason hopes alive.
