UPDATE: The Toronto Blue Jays have just announced that rookie Trey Yesavage will start Game 2 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) on Monday, intensifying the stakes as the series heats up. This announcement comes just hours before Game 1, taking place at Rogers Centre.
Yesavage addressed the media prior to the pivotal game, highlighting a serious issue that has overshadowed his rise in baseball. In an emotional statement, he condemned the recent online vitriol directed at his loved ones, stating, “It’s sad to see that people close to me are being attacked for my performances on the field.” His remarks underscore the harsh realities athletes face in the age of social media.
“If you have a problem, I’m a man; I can take whatever opinions anybody has about me or my life,” Yesavage said. “But those individuals have nothing to do with what happens on the field.”
This is not the first time this postseason that a rookie has voiced concerns over social media harassment. Cam Schlittler of the New York Yankees previously mentioned that fan backlash against his family had “crossed the line” before his start against the Boston Red Sox.
As for Yesavage, he heads into Game 2 with significant momentum. This will be his fifth career major league outing, following a spectacular performance in Game 2 of the AL Division Series, where he pitched 5.1 no-hit innings and struck out 11 batters against the Yankees.
On the other side, Seattle Mariners manager Dan Wilson has yet to confirm a starter for Game 2, but Logan Gilbert is expected to take the mound after appearing in a marathon 15-inning Game 5 against the Tigers. Gilbert previously pitched 34 pitches over two innings in a previous start.
This matchup is crucial, as both teams vie for a spot in the World Series. Fans are eagerly anticipating how Yesavage will perform under pressure, especially given the added emotional weight of his remarks about family and social media.
Stay tuned for updates as the Blue Jays and Mariners clash in this high-stakes game. Will Yesavage deliver another historic performance? We will know soon as Game 2 is set to begin!
