After the Seattle Mariners clinched a spot in the American League Championship Series following a dramatic 15-inning victory over the Detroit Tigers, Mississauga, Ont., native and Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor shared his thoughts on potentially facing the Toronto Blue Jays in the postseason. Naylor expressed that playing against the Blue Jays would be just another team to defeat, but meeting his friends from the Cleveland Guardians who now play for Toronto would hold special significance for him.
During an interview with Sportsnet at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park, Naylor mentioned his excitement about reuniting with former teammates like Myles Straw, Nick Sandlin, Andres Gimenez, and Ernie Clement, who are now part of the Blue Jays roster. He highlighted the bond they shared as former Cleveland players who were traded to Toronto.
The camaraderie among the former Guardians extended beyond the field, with each player taking different paths to join the Blue Jays. Clement signed a minor-league deal with Toronto in March 2023, while Gimenez and Sandlin were acquired in trades in December. Straw joined the team later in a separate deal, and Bieber was added before the trade deadline on July 31.
Clement praised Naylor as one of the best teammates he has had, emphasizing their close relationship and mutual support. The connection between the former Guardians was evident as they reunited in Toronto, with Naylor reminiscing about their shared experiences and lasting friendships from their time together in Cleveland.
Shifting gears, the transition for Shane Bieber, the latest Guardian to move to the Blue Jays, was made smoother by reuniting with familiar faces in Toronto. Bieber appreciated the warm welcome from his former teammates and the overall support within the organization, making his adjustment to the new team seamless.
Reflecting on the unique bond shared by the former Guardians now playing for the Blue Jays, manager John Schneider noted the positive impact it had on team cohesion. Despite changes in personnel, the Guardians managed to secure a playoff spot this season, although they were eliminated in the American League Wild Card series by Detroit.
As the ALCS unfolded with the Mariners taking a 2-0 series lead over the Blue Jays, Naylor expressed his gratitude for reconnecting with his old friends during the games at Rogers Centre. Regardless of the series outcome, the reunion with former teammates brought back cherished memories and reinforced their enduring friendships.
In a strategic move, the Blue Jays announced that Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, would start Game 4 of the ALCS in Seattle. Scherzer, who was activated for the series after missing the Division Series, aims to contribute his postseason experience to help the Blue Jays overcome the series deficit. Manager John Schneider emphasized Scherzer’s readiness and highlighted his Hall of Fame caliber as reasons for entrusting him with a crucial role in the playoff series.
