UPDATE: In a thrilling start to the American League Championship Series, the Toronto Blue Jays’ George Springer made history by hitting his 21st postseason home run on October 15, 2023. This powerful drive came on the very first pitch from Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller, propelling Springer past Derek Jeter to claim sole possession of fifth place on the all-time postseason home run list.
Springer’s impressive 385-foot blast to right field marked the first postseason leadoff home run in Blue Jays history, immediately putting Toronto ahead in Game 1 of the series. With this milestone, Springer adds to his legacy, now boasting 63 leadoff homers in regular season play, second only to Rickey Henderson’s record of 81.
However, the excitement was overshadowed by a concerning moment in the first inning when Blue Jays outfielder Nathan Lukes fouled a ball off his right knee, causing an immediate injury scare. Despite the pain, Lukes managed to stay in the game, battling through a 12-pitch walk before flying out in the third inning. He was ultimately replaced by Myles Straw to start the fourth. Lukes had been a standout performer in Toronto’s division series victory over the Yankees, contributing significantly with four hits and five RBIs in that series.
As the Blue Jays look to capitalize on this momentum, fans are buzzing about the implications of Springer’s record-setting performance. With Manny Ramirez holding the record for the most postseason home runs at 29, followed closely by Jose Altuve at 27, Springer’s pursuit of greatness adds an exciting layer to this playoff run.
Stay tuned for developments as the Blue Jays aim to build on this historic moment in the postseason. The excitement is palpable, and fans are eager to see how this series unfolds.