In a thrilling matchup, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his sixth home run of the 2025 postseason, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a commanding 6-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners. This win forced a decisive Game 7 in the American League Championship Series (ALCS), marking a historic moment for both teams.
Game 7 Set for Historic Clash
The Seattle Mariners, the only major league team yet to win a pennant, will compete in their first Game 7 in franchise history on Monday. Conversely, this will be the second Game 7 for the Blue Jays, the first since 1985. The outcome will determine which team advances to the World Series to face the National League champion Los Angeles Dodgers, with Game 1 scheduled for Friday.
Crucial Errors and Dominant Play
Toronto capitalized on a series of errors from the Mariners, who recorded their season-high of three mistakes during the game. The pivotal moment came in the second inning, beginning with a fielding error by Julio Rodríguez on Daulton Varsho’s single. This error allowed Varsho to reach second base.
- Ernie Clement followed with a groundball that was mishandled by third baseman Eugenio Suárez, further extending the Jays’ opportunity.
- Addison Barger and Isiah Kiner-Falefa each delivered RBI singles, giving Toronto an early 2-0 lead.
Guerrero Jr. Shines Again
Barger later added to the lead, hitting a two-run homer to right center field, taking the score to 4-0 by the fifth inning. Guerrero Jr. then further cemented Toronto’s advantage with a solo shot to left field, making it 5-0.
Seattle Attempts a Comeback
The Mariners managed to score in the sixth inning with a home run from Josh Naylor, who was followed by Randy Arozerana’s single, leading to the exit of Toronto starter Trey Yesavage. However, the Blue Jays responded decisively. A wild pitch from Matt Brash allowed Guerrero to score, extending Toronto’s lead to 6-2 and sealing the game.
Pitching Highlights
Despite the loss, Yesevage showcased formidable pitching skills. He threw a season-high 31 splitters, achieving seven strikeouts and allowing only six hits and three walks throughout the game.
“I just believed in myself. I know my stuff plays at this level,” said Yesavage. He praised his team’s defense, noting the significance of three double plays in consecutive innings as essential to the win.
As the Blue Jays look forward to the excitement of a Game 7, Blue Jays manager John Schneider emphasized the unique nature of the experience. “Got to enjoy it, man. This is what we sign up for,” he stated. The anticipation for this historic clash in Toronto is building, and fans are eager to see which team will emerge victorious.
