Gilbert to the Mound: Mariners One Step Away from the World Series

TORONTO – The Seattle Mariners are one step away from reaching the World Series, an unprecedented situation for the team. The pitcher Logan Gilbert, however, keeps his feet on the ground.

There’s still a long way to go. We’re nine long innings away from where we want to be, and I think everyone understands that.

Logan Gilbert

After an epic victory in Game 5, the Mariners lead the American League Championship Series 3-2. The winner of the series will face the Los Angeles Dodgers.

It’s huge. It’s been a very long year. Getting to this point is incredible. You grow up dreaming of moments like this, and you don’t know how many you’ll have in your career. Some never get to this. So it’s something very important.

Logan Gilbert

Gilbert, who pitched two scoreless innings in the 15-inning victory over Detroit, is preparing for his next challenge with five days of rest.

It’s the postseason and that’s part of the fun too. But we are creatures of habit, so it’s good to get back to the normal routine.

Logan Gilbert

The Mariners’ manager, Dan Wilson, highlights Gilbert’s mentality.

Logan is a guy you love to give the ball to. He has that focus, that desire to win, and he wants the ball in these situations. He’s ready for tomorrow for sure.

Dan Wilson

Toronto, on the brink of elimination, will have rookie Trey Yesavage on the mound. Yesavage set a postseason record for the Blue Jays by striking out 11 batters in 5 1/3 hitless innings against the New York Yankees in the Divisional Series. Yesavage recognizes the uniqueness of his opportunity.

This opportunity doesn’t come around very often. I spoke with Gausman the other day and said, “How far have you gotten in the playoffs?” He responded, “It’s the furthest I’ve gotten.” And he’s been playing this game for a long time. So I feel very fortunate to be in this situation.

Trey Yesavage

Blue Jays manager John Schneider trusts Yesavage despite his limited experience.

He’s pitched in many important games. He’s pitched in big regular season games, he’s pitched in big postseason games, and he’s handled himself well. We have all the confidence in the world that he’ll have the right mindset. He has to go out there and do what he knows.

John Schneider

Schneider expects to have George Springer, who was hit on the right knee by a 95.6 mph pitch from Bryan Woo in the seventh inning on Friday. Springer, a four-time All-Star, is batting .256 with three home runs and five doubles this postseason. Wilson reported that right-handed pitcher Bryan Woo experienced a slight discomfort after pitching two innings on Friday.

Getting him in the game was important, taking him out and having him feel comfortable. He feels good today. Obviously, a little bit of pain where you’d expect. But, again, this is an exciting time of year, and I expect him to be ready to go out of the bullpen.

Dan Wilson