UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays are set for a thrilling Game 7 in the American League Championship Series after defeating the Seattle Mariners 6-2 on October 15, 2023. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. made history by hitting his sixth home run of the postseason, tying him with José Bautista and Joe Carter for the most playoff homers in Blue Jays history.
The decisive Game 7 will take place on Monday night in Toronto, marking the second such game in the franchise’s history. The Blue Jays previously faced a Game 7 in the 1985 ALCS, where they fell to the Kansas City Royals. This will be a historic moment for the Mariners, as they chase their first pennant and play in their first postseason Game 7.
The Blue Jays displayed a remarkable performance, turning three double plays, including two consecutive bases-loaded, inning-ending double plays. This makes them the first team to accomplish this feat in postseason history. Rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage, just 22 years old, struck out seven batters in 5 2/3 innings, leading the Jays to victory.
Yesavage’s commanding performance included a shutout into the sixth inning, before allowing two runs. He utilized his split-fingered fastball effectively, recording five strikeouts with it. “He brings the energy. He’s young. He wants to win so bad,” Guerrero gushed about his teammate.
Toronto capitalized on Seattle’s season-high three errors, while the Blue Jays committed only four errors in their entire playoff run. Guerrero’s leadoff homer in the fifth inning extended the lead to 5-0, chasing Mariners starter Logan Gilbert from the mound after just four innings.
The Mariners had opportunities but were repeatedly thwarted by the Blue Jays’ defense, as slugger Cal Raleigh grounded into a double play with the bases loaded in the third inning. Seattle’s hopes dimmed further when J.P. Crawford also grounded into a double play in the fourth.
With the pressure mounting on both teams, the Blue Jays are eager to seize the opportunity to face the NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, which begins on October 20, 2023.
As fans gear up for an electrifying Game 7, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will the Blue Jays advance to the World Series or will the Mariners finally break through? Stay tuned for more updates!
