Blue Jays Force Game 7 with Vlad Jr.’s 6th Playoff Homer

URGENT UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have clinched a spot in a decisive Game 7 of the American League Championship Series by defeating the Seattle Mariners 6-2 on Sunday night. This thrilling victory was highlighted by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting his sixth home run of the postseason, tying him with José Bautista and Joe Carter for the most in franchise history.

The series will conclude on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET in Toronto, marking only the second Game 7 in Blue Jays history. Their previous encounter in a Game 7 was in 1985 when they faced Kansas City.

The Mariners, still seeking their first pennant, will also be competing in their inaugural postseason Game 7. The upcoming match will determine who advances to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series starting this Friday.

Toronto’s victory was bolstered by rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage, who struck out seven batters over 5 2/3 innings. The Blue Jays’ defense was formidable, turning three double plays, including two consecutive bases-loaded inning-ending double plays—an unprecedented feat in postseason history.

Guerrero’s leadoff homer in the fifth inning extended the Blue Jays’ lead to 5-0, ultimately chasing Mariners starter Logan Gilbert from the game. Gilbert allowed five runs on seven hits in four innings of work. Yesavage, just 22 years old, maintained a shutout until the sixth inning, where he was charged with two runs.

“He brings the energy. He’s young. He wants to win so bad,”

Guerrero exclaimed about his fellow teammate Yesavage, who has now made three starts in the playoffs, winning twice. Yesavage commented on his performance, saying, “I just believed in myself. I know my stuff plays at this level.”

The Blue Jays capitalized on a season-high three errors by the Mariners, while Toronto has made only four errors throughout the entire playoffs. Addison Barger also shone brightly, contributing a home run and driving in three runs during the game.

Looking ahead, the Blue Jays aim to break their postseason elimination streak, which dates back to Game 5 of the 2016 ALCS against the Cleveland Indians. The pressure is on, as the team has faced elimination in their last four playoff appearances, including wild-card losses in 2020 against Tampa Bay, 2022 against Seattle, and 2023 against Minnesota.

With so much at stake, the excitement is palpable as fans anticipate the pivotal showdown in Toronto. The Blue Jays are poised to make history, and all eyes will be on the Rogers Centre for what promises to be an unforgettable Game 7.