Baseball fans from across Canada are converging on Seattle for the pivotal Game 3 of the American League Championship Series. Enthusiasm is palpable, especially among supporters of the Toronto Blue Jays. With the team down two games against the Seattle Mariners, the stakes have never been higher.
Fans’ Journey to Seattle
Many fans are opting for creative travel solutions to reach T-Mobile Park. Recently, Lloyd Johnston and Shaun Funk made the trip from Vancouver by train. Funk sported a Mariners hat while Johnston donned a Blue Jays cap, highlighting their mixed allegiances.
Johnston noted a surprising absence of more fans on the train, despite expectations of a large turnout. The ticket cost for their journey was approximately US$300, a significant increase compared to Funk’s previous visit when tickets were only about US$60.
Game Day Atmosphere
As Game 3 approaches, the streets of Seattle are packed with Blue Jays supporters. Fans have traveled by various means, including planes, trains, and even ferry rides. Mick Thiessen from Abbotsford, B.C., emphasized the importance of this game, declaring it a “must-win” for the Jays.
- Regular-season games in Seattle often feel like home for Blue Jays fans.
- The tourist influx during the playoffs provides a much-needed economic boost to Seattle’s businesses.
Visit Seattle reports that October presents challenges for tourism, with anticipated declines in Canadian visitors. This playoff series, however, offers a significant opportunity for local hotels and restaurants.
The Victoria Clipper’s Special Service
The Victoria Clipper provided a “Playoff Express” ferry service to accommodate fans traveling from Victoria to Seattle. This ferry journey lasts approximately two hours and 45 minutes. It ensures that fans with tickets can disembark promptly, maximizing their time before the game begins.
Natasha Mills and Mitch Laseur, who traveled on the Clipper, shared their joy about the experience. Mills noted the friendly atmosphere onboard, while Laseur maintained optimism, urging the Jays to take the series “one game at a time.” The couple demonstrated resilience by focusing on the game rather than political tensions affecting cross-border travel.
Historical Context
Historically, the Blue Jays and Mariners have met in postseason play before. The Mariners eliminated Toronto in the 2022 wild-card series. Currently, as the Mariners seek their first American League Championship Series win, they hold a strategic advantage over the Blue Jays.
The excitement builds as the two teams continue their rivalry, with Blue Jays fans determined to support their squad in this critical playoff matchup.
