The Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners are set to face off in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) for the first time in their shared history. Both teams joined Major League Baseball as expansion franchises in 1977, but their paths have diverged significantly since then. The Blue Jays have enjoyed two World Series victories, while the Mariners are still pursuing their first.
Historic Matchup in 2025 ALCS
On Sunday, October 5, 2025, the Blue Jays will host the ALCS at Rogers Centre. This series marks a historic moment, as it is the first time these two teams have battled for a pennant despite their long histories.
Franchise Backgrounds
- Toronto Blue Jays
- Established: 1977
- World Series Titles: 2 (1992, 1993)
- Last World Series Appearance: 1993
- Seattle Mariners
- Established: 1977
- World Series Titles: None
- First Postseason Appearance: 1995
The Blue Jays captured back-to-back championships in the early 1990s, securing their legacy as champions, while the Mariners continue to seek their first title. After years of struggle, the team’s postseason run in 1995 was a significant milestone, even though they faced defeat in the ALCS that year.
Key Moments in History
- The Blue Jays achieved a playoff run in 2015 and 2016 after a long hiatus from postseason play.
- The Mariners enjoyed only a modest level of success in their early years, finishing with more losses than wins for an extended period.
- Both teams experienced brief collaborations and trade interactions, notably the 1997 trade that sent José Cruz Jr. from Seattle to Toronto.
This ALCS presents a chance for one of these franchises to change their narrative. The Mariners aim to break their championship drought, while the Blue Jays seek to return to their winning ways after more than three decades.
As the series is set to commence, both teams are prepared to battle for a coveted World Series berth, a goal they have pursued for years. For baseball fans, this matchup is not just about wins and losses; it’s about history, pride, and the quest for glory.
