The Seattle Mariners took the lead in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) by defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 3-1 at Rogers Centre. Cal Raleigh’s solo home run in the sixth inning was crucial in Seattle’s victory. Additionally, Jorge Polanco contributed with two RBI singles, and Bryce Miller’s solid pitching performance over six innings secured the win. The Mariners’ bullpen, led by Andres Munoz, closed out the game effectively.
Despite George Springer’s leadoff homer for the Blue Jays, the team struggled to generate offense, with only one more hit coming from Anthony Santander. Toronto’s starter Kevin Gausman settled in after a rough start, retiring 15 consecutive batters before allowing Raleigh’s game-tying home run.
The Blue Jays’ manager, John Schneider, acknowledged the tough challenge posed by the Mariners and highlighted the lack of luck with hitting in critical moments. Gausman took responsibility for the loss, expressing regret over his performance.
Following their dominant performance in the division series, where they averaged 8.5 runs per game, the Blue Jays’ bats fell silent against the Mariners. The defeat ended their six-game home winning streak.
In Game 2, rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage was set to start for the Blue Jays, aiming to build on his record-breaking postseason debut against the Yankees. Yesavage lamented the abuse his family faced due to his on-field performances, emphasizing the negativity that comes with public scrutiny.
Seattle’s Logan Gilbert, who pitched in relief during the previous game, was slated to start Game 2. The series would then move to T-Mobile Park in Seattle for Game 3, promising an intense and competitive matchup between the Mariners and Blue Jays.
