The Toronto Blue Jays are set to clash with the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) after the Mariners triumphed in a thrilling Game 5 against the Detroit Tigers, winning 3-2 in 15 innings. Jorge Polanco’s crucial single off Tommy Kahnle scored J.P. Crawford, breaking a long scoring drought after the Mariners tied the game at 2-2 in the seventh inning.
The best-of-seven ALCS is scheduled to begin on Sunday, featuring Game 1 at 8:03 p.m. ET in Toronto, broadcasted on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+. Following the opener, the Blue Jays will host Game 2 on Monday, before the series transitions to Seattle for Game 3 on Wednesday.
This series showcases the top two seeds in the American League. The Blue Jays clinched the AL East title with a remarkable 94-68 record, finishing first in the league, while the Mariners completed a late surge to secure the top position in the AL West at 90-72. Both teams benefited from byes in the Wild Card round.
Toronto has had the upper hand in their season matchups against Seattle, finishing with a 4-2 record. Notably, the Blue Jays achieved their first sweep in Seattle since 1991 during a series held from May 9-11. However, the Mariners managed to claim two of three games at Rogers Centre from April 18-20.
Both franchises entered the league during the same expansion in 1977, but their trajectories have differed significantly. The Blue Jays rapidly became contenders, making it to their first ALCS in 1985 and winning back-to-back World Series in 1992 and 1993. Conversely, the Mariners did not reach the postseason until 1995, a pivotal year that marked the introduction of the Division Series format. Despite their playoff appearances, they have yet to participate in a World Series, with their last ALCS experience occurring in 2001.
In terms of head-to-head postseason matchups, the Mariners have the advantage, having swept the Blue Jays in the Wild Card Series of 2022.
The Blue Jays enter the ALCS following a 3-1 victory against the New York Yankees in the AL Division Series (ALDS), highlighted by stellar pitching performances from Kevin Gausman and Trey Yesavage. Offensively, Toronto’s lineup was spearheaded by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who recorded an impressive .529 batting average and nine RBIs during the series.
As the Blue Jays aim for their third AL pennant, they are hopeful for reinforcements, particularly with star shortstop Bo Bichette making progress from a knee injury that sidelined him at the end of the regular season and during the ALDS. Additionally, pitchers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt are also expected to be considered for the ALCS roster, which is to be revealed on Sunday.
On the other hand, the Mariners boast a formidable power-hitter in their catcher, Cal Raleigh, who led the major leagues with 60 home runs and topped the AL with 125 RBIs this season. Raleigh was one of three Seattle All-Stars in 2025, alongside outfielder Randy Arozarena and right-hander Bryan Woo.
Arozarena experienced a career year, achieving 27 home runs, 31 stolen bases, and 76 RBIs. Meanwhile, Woo, who excelled with a 15-7 record, a 2.94 ERA, and 198 strikeouts, missed the ALDS due to pectoral inflammation but might return for the ALCS.
The Blue Jays have traditionally enjoyed significant support in the Pacific Northwest, with fans from British Columbia turning out in large numbers at T-Mobile Park during Toronto’s annual visits. However, heightened playoff ticket prices and potential restrictions on online sales for out-of-region fans might favor the Mariners by creating a more home-friendly environment.
