Mariners steal G1 from Blue Jays: Miller shines, Raleigh and Polanco decisive

In an unexpected turn of events, the Seattle Mariners managed to steal home-field advantage in the American League Championship Series by defeating the Blue Jays with a score of 3-1 in Toronto. This triumph came after a journey full of setbacks and a demanding previous victory. Despite the mechanical problems that delayed their flight from Seattle, the team arrived in Toronto less than 24 hours before the game. While the Mariners dealt with the travel, the rested Blue Jays were doing their usual training.

The Resilience of the Mariners

Pitcher Bryce Miller, with only three days of rest, was key in the victory. Cal Raleigh hit a crucial home run, and Jorge Polanco continued his outstanding performance, demonstrating the team’s resilience, as highlighted by manager Dan Wilson. The difference in the physical state of the starting pitchers was evident. Kevin Gausman of the Blue Jays, had more than a week of rest, while Miller came to the mound with less than usual. George Springer of the Blue Jays hit a home run in the first inning, but Miller limited the Blue Jays to one run in six innings. Miller, exceeding expectations, became the first pitcher to record at least six innings and allow one run or less in the postseason with as little rest since David Price in 2018.

They didn’t tell me anything, no plan. So I went out to give it my all until they came to get me.

Bryce Miller

Miller retired 17 of the last 19 batters he faced, demonstrating a remarkable performance. His average speed of 96.3 mph was the highest in his 76 starts. The game remained tense, with Gausman having initial problems. Raleigh, after a couple of less fortunate at-bats, hit a home run to tie the game. The decision to bring in the pitcher, Brendan Little, a lefty, to face Polanco, backfired. Polanco drove in the run that gave the Mariners the lead. The Blue Jays failed to react, and the Mariners, with a solid performance from their relievers, sealed the victory with Andrés Muñoz in the ninth inning. The Mariners, exhausted but resilient, demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity, securing an important victory in the first game of the series. Game 2 is scheduled for Monday.