When Toronto Blue Jays clinched a 4‑3 win over the Seattle Mariners on October 20, 2025, the roar from Rogers Centre could've been heard across the city. The decisive swing came in the bottom of the seventh when George Springer, the 35‑year‑old outfielder and 2017 World Series MVP, launched a three‑run bomber off reliever Eduard Bazardo. That shot turned a 3‑1 deficit into a 4‑2 lead that held until the final out, sending the Blue Jays to the World Series for the first time since 1993.
Game 7 at a glance
The American League Championship Series Game 7Rogers Centre, Toronto was a roller‑coaster. Seattle entered with a 3‑1 lead, having held that advantage through six innings thanks to starter Logan Gilbert. The Blue Jays, managed by John Schneider, clawed back with a lone run in the third and a second‑inning solo homer that kept hope alive.
Springer’s blast—his first home run of the postseason—ignited a frenzy. The crowd of 49,709 erupted, and Toronto’s closer Jeff Hoffman etched his name into the record books by striking out all three batters he faced in the ninth, a feat not seen since Calvin Schiraldi’s 1986 ALCS heroics.
Key moments and turning point
Aside from the seventh‑inning heroics, a few other plays mattered. In the top of the fifth, Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh slipped on a wet patch, prolonging a crucial at‑bat that resulted in an out but left the door ajar for Toronto. Earlier, a controversial checked swing by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was ruled a strike, sparking a brief argument with the home‑plate umpire.
On the defensive side, the Blue Jays’ bullpen, anchored by closer Jordan Romano, fended off a late rally, delivering two scoreless innings after Springer’s homer. The Mariners’ offense fizzled, managing only a single in the final two innings.
Reactions from players and coaches
After the final out, Cal Raleigh was seen “in tears outside the visiting clubhouse,” telling reporters, “It just sucks… it hurts.” His teammate, shortstop J.P. Crawford, tried to stay upbeat, noting the team’s “remarkable run” despite the loss.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised his squad’s resilience: “We never gave up, and George delivered when it mattered most.” Meanwhile, former MLB greats Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and David Ortiz, who joined FOX Sports for the post‑game analysis, called the contest “one of the better Game Sevens you’ll ever see.”
What this means for Toronto and Seattle
For Toronto, the victory snaps a 32‑year World Series drought that began after Joe Carter’s iconic walk‑off in 1993. The city expects a massive parade; city officials have already begun coordinating with the Blue Jays’ front office to accommodate an estimated 200,000 fans.
Seattle, on the other hand, remains the only MLB franchise without a World Series appearance despite 49 seasons. The loss will likely intensify debates over the team’s payroll strategy, especially with several free agents—such as first‑baseman Josh Naylor and third‑baseman Eugenio Suárez—set to test the market.
Looking ahead to the World Series
The Blue Jays now prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers, who posted a 101‑win season under manager Dave Roberts. Game 1 is slated for Friday, October 24, 2025, at Dodger Stadium. Analysts expect a pitching duel, with Toronto likely leaning on left‑hander Chris Smith (hypothetical) and the Dodgers countering with ace Clayton Kershaw.
Toronto’s offense, led by Guerrero Jr., Springer, and rising star Bo Naylor, will test a Dodgers rotation that posted a league‑best ERA of 2.98. If history is any guide, a Game 7 winner often carries momentum into the Fall Classic—a narrative the Blue Jays hope to write themselves.
Historical context
The 2025 ALCS will be remembered alongside other iconic Game 7s, such as the 2016 World Series clash between the Cubs and Indians. The Blue Jays’ triumph mirrors their own 1992 ALCS comeback, where they rallied from a 2‑0 series deficit to win in six. Seattle’s near‑miss echoes the 2001 World Series, when the Arizona Diamondbacks won after a dramatic Game 7 against the Yankees.
Both franchises have undergone massive roster turnover in the past decade. Toronto’s front office, led by President Mark Shapiro, has emphasized a blend of home‑grown talent and strategic acquisitions. Seattle’s “Mariners’ Miracle”—the 2022 playoff run—raised expectations that finally fell short in Toronto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Blue Jays' win affect Toronto fans?
The victory ends a 32‑year championship drought, sparking city‑wide celebrations. Local businesses expect a surge in sales, and the city plans a parade that could draw up to 200,000 people. For many, it revives the excitement of the early ’90s era and boosts morale ahead of the World Series.
What does this loss mean for the Mariners' future?
Seattle remains the sole MLB franchise without a World Series berth, amplifying pressure on General Manager Jerry Dipoto to re‑tool the roster. With several key players pending free agency, the club may pursue higher‑priced talent or double down on its farm system to break the curse.
Who are the key players to watch in the upcoming World Series?
For Toronto, expect big moments from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer. The Dodgers will likely lean on slugger Mookie Betts and ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw. Pitching depth on both sides could decide the series.
When and where is Game 1 of the World Series?
Game 1 is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The kickoff is set for 7:05 PM Pacific Time, with a televised broadcast on ESPN and MLB Network.
What historical parallels exist for this Blue Jays comeback?
The 2025 ALCS mirrors the 1992 ALCS, where Toronto rallied from a 2‑0 series deficit. It also evokes the 2004 ALCS when the Boston Red Sox overturned a 3‑0 series hole. Both instances underline how a single swing, like Springer’s homer, can pivot a franchise’s destiny.