The Toronto Blue Jays, after clinching the top seed in the American League on the last day of the season, have established a routine of resting, preparing, and executing effectively. This strategy paid off in the AL Division Series against the New York Yankees, and the Blue Jays are aiming for a similar success in the AL Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners.
With a three-day break between games, Toronto outfielder Myles Straw expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, stating that the short break was ideal for staying focused. The Blue Jays secured home-field advantage and bypassed the wild-card round due to winning the division title, giving them a significant edge over the Yankees in the ALDS.
Facing the Mariners in Game 1 at Rogers Centre, the Blue Jays had the opportunity to rest their rotation after wrapping up the ALDS while Seattle had a grueling Game 5 against Detroit, which they won after 15 innings. Despite the emotional series, Mariners manager Dan Wilson mentioned that his team was in good spirits and eager to begin the series.
In the pitching matchup for Game 1, Kevin Gausman will take the mound for Toronto, while Seattle will counter with Bryce Miller. Gausman, coming off a win in the ALDS Game 1, expressed enthusiasm for the crucial role.
Looking ahead, the possibility of rookie Trey Yesavage starting Game 2 and Shane Bieber starting Game 3 for Toronto was mentioned by a team representative. Seattle had to deploy starters Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo in relief during their win over the Tigers, using seven pitchers in the extended game.
Seattle’s Miller, who did not pitch in the decisive Game 5 against the Tigers, will have limited rest going into Game 1 after a previous appearance. The Mariners are excited to rely on him for the crucial matchup.
This marks Seattle’s first ALCS appearance since 2001 and the Blue Jays’ return to the MLB final four since 2016. The Mariners previously swept the Blue Jays in the 2022 wild-card round at Rogers Centre.
The series schedule includes Game 2 in Toronto, followed by Games 3 and 4 at T-Mobile Park. If needed, Game 5 will be held in Seattle, with Toronto hosting Games 6 and 7 as required. The ALCS winner will advance to the World Series, where the Blue Jays aim to capture their first title since 1993.
