The American League Championship Series is proving to be challenging for the Toronto Blue Jays. As they head to Seattle for Game 3, they face a 2-0 series deficit against the Mariners. A significant factor contributing to Toronto’s struggles is the standout performance of Canadian first baseman Josh Naylor in Game 2.
Josh Naylor’s Game-Changing Performance
Naylor, who hails from Mississauga, Ontario, had an impressive outing, going 3 for 4 with a two-run homer. His contributions helped the Mariners secure a 10-3 victory, placing them two wins away from their first World Series appearance.
A Historic Home Run
Naylor’s seventh-inning home run traveled 359 feet, marking him as the first Canadian-born player to hit a postseason home run against the Blue Jays in Toronto. He reflected on the experience, describing it as a “little kid moment” to hit a significant October homer at a stadium he admired as a child.
- Naylor is the fourth Canadian-born player to homer in their home country during the playoffs.
- Previous Canadian players to accomplish this feat include Russell Martin and Michael Saunders in 2016, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. earlier this month.
Naylor’s Ties to the Blue Jays
While Naylor’s family celebrated his achievement, the victory was bittersweet for Blue Jays players who were once his teammates. During his four seasons in Cleveland, Naylor formed close bonds with several current Blue Jays players, including Ernie Clement, Andrés Giménez, Myles Straw, and Shane Bieber.
Myles Straw has expressed a deep admiration for Naylor, calling him one of the best teammates he’s ever had. Their friendship extends beyond baseball, with Straw attending Naylor’s baby shower earlier this season.
The Emotional Connection
Naylor’s relationship with Straw highlights their strong connection. A previous incident showcased this bond when Naylor checked on Straw after he was injured attempting to catch one of Naylor’s hits during a game in June.
Straw noted Naylor’s knack for coming through with key hits in postseason play, describing him as “a complete hitter” who poses challenges for opposing pitchers. As the series progresses, Naylor’s impact could be a decisive factor that affects the Blue Jays’ chances in the playoffs.
Both Naylor’s personal achievements and his connections to the Blue Jays illustrate the complex relationships that can exist within sports. As the series continues, the focus will remain on whether Naylor can further his playoff success and help lead the Mariners to victory over the team he once admired.
