The Toronto Blue Jays have a rich history in postseason play, having reached the playoffs 11 times over their almost 50-year existence. This year, the Blue Jays are set to kick off the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Seattle Mariners, who eliminated the Detroit Tigers in the previous round.
The Blue Jays earned their spot in the ALCS by defeating the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series (ALDS). This marks the eighth time the Blue Jays have advanced to the ALCS, with previous appearances in 1985, 1989, from 1991 to 1993, and most recently in 2015 and 2016.
In their first ALCS appearance in 1985, the Blue Jays won 99 regular-season games, a record that still stands unmatched in franchise history. Despite a strong performance, they fell to the Kansas City Royals in a seven-game series, with the Royals eventually clinching the World Series title.
The following year in 1989, the Blue Jays won 89 games but faced a tough defeat in the ALCS against the Oakland Athletics, who went on to sweep the San Francisco Giants in the World Series. In 1991, despite securing 91 wins during the regular season, the Blue Jays once again stumbled in the ALCS, winning just one game against the Minnesota Twins, who emerged as World Series champions.
The Blue Jays made history by winning back-to-back World Series championships in 1992 and 1993. Led by a talented roster, including players like Joe Carter, Dave Winfield, and Roberto Alomar, the Blue Jays showcased their prowess by claiming consecutive titles.
After a lengthy postseason drought, the Blue Jays returned to playoff contention in 2015 under the leadership of José Bautista. The team won 93 games that season, securing the division title and advancing to the ALCS, where they were ultimately defeated by the Kansas City Royals.
In 2016, despite winning 89 games in the regular season, the Blue Jays earned a wildcard spot and advanced to the ALDS, sweeping the Texas Rangers. However, their journey ended in the ALCS, where they were bested by the Cleveland Indians in five games. The Indians went on to face the Chicago Cubs in the World Series, which concluded with a Cubs victory.
The Blue Jays’ ALCS history showcases their resilience and competitive spirit, with memorable moments and achievements spanning decades.