UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners are on the brink of history, just one victory away from their first American League pennant. Pitcher Logan Gilbert takes the mound Sunday, October 15, 2023, for a pivotal Game 6 against the Toronto Blue Jays.
After a thrilling 6-2 comeback victory in Game 5, the Mariners lead the AL Championship Series 3-2. “We’re nine long innings away from where we want to be,” Gilbert stated, emphasizing the importance of this moment for the franchise.
The Mariners, who have never reached the World Series, face a must-win situation against Toronto. The winner of this series will advance to play the Los Angeles Dodgers starting Friday. Gilbert, reflecting on the gravity of the moment, said, “Just to get to this point is amazing… you don’t know how many you’ll get over the course of your career.”
Gilbert, a 2024 All-Star, is coming off a strong performance in the postseason. He pitched two scoreless innings in a 15-inning win over the Detroit Tigers, followed by a start in Game 2 where he allowed three runs in three innings during a 10-3 victory.
“Logan is a guy you love to give the ball to,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson praised. “He has that focus and desire to win.” Gilbert will face Trey Yesavage, a rookie pitcher for Toronto, who is making his third start of the postseason.
Yesavage made headlines this October, striking out 11 batters in a postseason record for the Blue Jays against the New York Yankees. Despite a tough outing in ALCS Game 2, he remains optimistic. “This opportunity does not come up very often,” he said, reflecting on the significance of the moment.
As the Blue Jays seek to stave off elimination, manager John Schneider expressed confidence in Yesavage’s ability to perform under pressure. “He’s pitched in big postseason games and handled himself well,” Schneider noted.
Adding to the tension, the availability of designated hitter George Springer is uncertain after he was hit on the right kneecap by a fastball. Schneider reported, “Feeling a lot better than he did yesterday,” indicating a glimmer of hope for the veteran player.
Meanwhile, Mariners’ pitcher Bryan Woo experienced minor soreness following his return to the mound, but Wilson confirmed he feels good and is ready to contribute out of the bullpen.
With everything on the line, both teams are poised for a fierce battle. Game 6 is set to begin at 1:00 PM EDT in Toronto, and fans can expect an electrifying showdown as the Mariners aim for their first AL title and the Blue Jays look to extend their season.
Stay tuned for live updates as this high-stakes game unfolds!