The Toronto Blue Jays are on the brink of securing their first playoff series win in almost ten years, as they gear up for a crucial game in the Bronx on Tuesday following their commanding performances in two home games against the New York Yankees.
The American League Division Series (ALDS) Game 3 is scheduled to commence shortly after 8 p.m. ET at Yankee Stadium. Ontario-born Jays enthusiast Jeffrey Mizen, residing in New York state, anticipates witnessing a remarkable event as he expresses confidence in the team’s exceptional gameplay.
Lesley Mak, a devoted Toronto superfan, shares the optimism, feeling “really good” about the team’s prospects to progress further in the playoffs, describing them as a “team of destiny” that appears unbeatable.
With a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five divisional series, the Blue Jays require just one more victory to advance to the next playoff stage, the American League Championship Series (ALCS), a feat they achieved in 2015 and 2016.
Conversely, the Yankees are facing a critical juncture in Game 3, knowing that a loss would lead them to a must-win Game 4 the following day in the Bronx. If a Game 5 becomes necessary, it is set to take place in Toronto on Friday.
The Blue Jays’ success in reaching this point can be attributed to their explosive offense, scoring a total of 23 runs in the first two games, complemented by stellar starting pitching performances. Game 1 witnessed a 10-1 victory over the Yankees, highlighted by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s home run and Alejandro Kirk’s impressive hitting display.
In Game 2, the Blue Jays continued their dominance, defeating the Yankees 13-7, with rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage setting a franchise playoff record with 11 strikeouts. Toronto’s potent offense, including five home runs, showcased their prowess in back-to-back wins.
Looking ahead to Game 3, former Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber will take the mound for the Blue Jays, acquired via a trade with Cleveland. He will face off against the Yankees’ Carlos Rodón, who won 18 regular-season games.
While a sweep remains a possibility, it is not guaranteed given the Yankees’ resilience and strength as a team. The series outcome will determine the Blue Jays’ next opponents in the ALCS and potentially lead them to the World Series, a stage they last conquered over three decades ago with consecutive titles in 1992 and 1993.