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 contributed to Seattle’s two runs. Jorge Polanco’s two RBI singles and Bryce Miller’s solid six-inning pitching performance secured the victory. Andres Munoz closed the game with a clean ninth inning for the save.
Despite George Springer’s leadoff homer for the Blue Jays and Anthony Santander’s second-inning single, the Toronto offense struggled, managing only two hits. Blue Jays outfielder Davis Schneider acknowledged the Mariners’ competitive play, recognizing them as a formidable opponent.
Toronto’s starting pitcher Kevin Gausman settled down after a rough first inning, retiring 15 consecutive batters. However, a pivotal moment came when Cal Raleigh’s 420-foot home run tied the game. Gausman was replaced after a walk to Julio Rodriguez, leading to Polanco’s RBI single and an insurance run in the eighth inning.
Following a high-scoring division series, the Blue Jays’ bats were quiet, leading to their six-game home winning streak coming to an end. The Mariners, arriving in Toronto after a lengthy Game 5 victory over the Detroit Tigers, showcased their resilience, as noted by manager Dan Wilson.
Injury struck the Blue Jays as Lukes exited the game in the fourth inning with a knee contusion. Despite the setback, a CT scan ruled out any fractures.
The upcoming Game 2 was set to feature rookie Trey Yesavage on the mound for the Blue Jays. Yesavage, who set a postseason record by striking out 11 Yankees in a previous game, expressed concern over the abuse his family faced due to his on-field performances.
Logan Gilbert, who pitched in relief in the previous game, was announced as the Mariners’ starter for Game 2. The series will shift to Seattle’s T-Mobile Park for Game 3, promising a competitive battle according to Blue Jays manager John Schneider.