UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays’ hopes for a World Series title were dashed in a gut-wrenching 5-4 defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game 7 on October 28, 2023. As emotions ran high in the clubhouse, players struggled to process the loss that slipped through their fingers in extra innings.
Closer Jeff Hoffman bore the weight of the defeat, his voice cracking as he took responsibility for giving up the game-tying home run to Dodgers second baseman Miguel Rojas. “It sucks,” Hoffman lamented. “I cost everybody here a World Series ring. It feels pretty s—ty.” With just two outs left, Hoffman’s slider was hit deep, leading to a dramatic turn of events.
The Jays maintained a 3-1 lead, thanks to a three-run homer from Bo Bichette in the third inning. However, the Dodgers capitalized on late-game opportunities, with catcher Will Smith delivering the final blow against starter-turned-reliever Shane Bieber. “This one stings. It’s going to sting for a while,” Bieber reflected after the game.
The defeat deeply affected veteran pitcher Max Scherzer, who fought back tears as he expressed his love for the team. “This team had that closeness, had that camaraderie,” Scherzer said. “That loss is so tough. I’m 41 years old and I never thought I could love baseball this much.”
Players in the locker room shared their raw emotions, with third baseman Ernie Clement setting a record for the most hits in a single postseason with 30. Despite his historic achievement, Clement was left heartbroken after being robbed of a potential game-winning hit in the ninth inning. He spent an hour post-game crying and hugging teammates, saying, “When you fall short but you can say you left it all out there, there’s something to be proud of.”
The atmosphere in the clubhouse was overwhelmingly somber, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. acknowledging the team’s collective disappointment. “Everyone in here is pretty devastated,” said pitcher Kevin Gausman. “It took them playing perfect to beat us.”
Manager John Schneider held an emotional meeting with his team, thanking them for their efforts throughout the season. “I said thank you probably about ten times,” he shared. As players face an uncertain offseason, many, including Bichette, expressed their desire to remain with the team. “I want to be here, but I just lost a Game 7,” he stated.
The Blue Jays’ journey this season was remarkable, bouncing back from a last-place finish in 2024 to winning the AL East and reaching the World Series. Despite the heartache, players acknowledged the meaningful experiences they shared.
As fans mourn the lost opportunity, the Blue Jays’ resilience and camaraderie will be remembered as they look ahead to future seasons. The heartbreak of Game 7 will linger, but the foundation built this year gives hope for what lies ahead.
Stay tuned as developments unfold regarding the future of the Blue Jays and their key players following this emotional defeat.
