UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have surged to a commanding 2-0 lead in the AL Championship Series, demolishing the Toronto Blue Jays 10-3 at the Rogers Centre on October 9, 2023. With this victory, the Mariners are just two wins away from making history as the only major league team yet to reach a World Series.
In an electrifying game, Julio Rodriguez and Jorge Polanco each launched three-run homers, while Josh Naylor added a two-run blast, further sealing the fate of the struggling Blue Jays. Seattle now heads home for Game 3 on Wednesday, needing just two more victories to secure their spot in the World Series.
The Blue Jays, playing in front of a sellout crowd of 44,814, struggled offensively, managing only six hits throughout the game. Notably, star player Vladimir Guerrero Jr. went hitless, finishing 0 for 3 with a walk, leaving fans disheartened.
Rodriguez set the tone early, hitting a homer against rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage just three batters into the game. Despite an initial comeback attempt from Toronto with Nathan Lukes and Alejandro Kirk contributing to the score, Polanco’s power swing in the fifth inning put Seattle back in control.
“We’re focused on winning,” Polanco stated after the game. “This is our time.”
As the Mariners continue to dominate, their bullpen remains a formidable force, having delivered nine scoreless innings across the series, allowing just one hit. Pitchers Eduard Bazardo, Carlos Vargas, and Emerson Hancock all played key roles, each contributing two innings of stellar work.
Despite his earlier discomfort after fouling a ball off his foot, Naylor demonstrated resilience, ultimately hitting a two-run homer in the seventh inning. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays faced challenges as outfielder Anthony Santander was scratched from the lineup due to a sore lower back, forcing Davis Schneider into action, who finished 0 for 3.
The Mariners now aim to capitalize on their momentum as they prepare for a pivotal Game 3. Fans and players alike are eager to witness if Seattle can finally break their World Series drought. All eyes will be on the field as these two teams clash once more in what promises to be an explosive matchup.
