Seattle Mariners take Game 1 of the ALCS with a 3-1 victory over Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre, leaving Toronto bats silent.
Mariners Strike Early in ALCS Series
The Seattle Mariners opened the American League Championship Series with a 3-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday at Rogers Centre. Seattle’s offense ignited in the sixth inning, putting Toronto on the back foot in front of a sellout crowd of 44,474.
Toronto’s Limited Offense
George Springer sparked hope for the Blue Jays with a leadoff home run in the first inning, but the team managed just one other hit, a second-inning single by Anthony Santander. After averaging 8.5 runs per game in the division series, Toronto’s bats went quiet, ending a six-game home winning streak.
Key Moments That Decided the Game
Seattle’s Cal Raleigh tied the game with a 420-foot solo homer in the sixth. Jorge Polanco followed with two RBI singles, including an insurance run in the eighth. Mariners’ pitcher Bryce Miller (1-0) delivered six strong innings, while Andres Munoz closed the ninth for the save. Toronto starter Kevin Gausman (1-1) retired 15 consecutive batters after a rough first inning, but was pulled following a walk in the sixth.
Injuries and Roster Adjustments
Blue Jays right fielder Nathan Lukes exited in the fourth inning with a right knee contusion after fouling a ball off his leg earlier in the game. Toronto’s lineup will need adjustments as the series progresses, especially with Game 2 scheduled for Monday afternoon in Toronto.
Travel and Scheduling Challenges
The Blue Jays had three days off after eliminating the New York Yankees last Wednesday, while the Mariners arrived late Saturday following a 15-inning Game 5 win over the Detroit Tigers. The series will move to Seattle’s T-Mobile Park for Game 3 on Wednesday.
Looking Ahead
Toronto will aim to regain offensive momentum in Game 2 to avoid falling into an early series deficit. Meanwhile, the Mariners will look to capitalize on their momentum and continue their strong pitching performance on the road.
