Toronto Blue Jays Claim Fall Classic Matchup Against defending champion Dodgers
George Springer was instrumental for the Astros securing the championship in the 2017 season.
The Toronto Blue Jays earned a spot in their first championship series following 1993 by beating the Seattle Mariners in the decisive Game 7 of the ALCS.
Behind 3-1, Springer smashed a three-run homer in the seventh frame, leading the only Canadian franchise in the majors to a 4-3 series triumph in the best-of-seven series. Next up are the Dodgers, holders of the current crown, in the upcoming World Series.
"It's incredible for everyone here, Toronto, the nation," commented Springer, an integral part of the Astros team that secured the 2017 championship. "It's truly an unbelievable moment."
George Springer has now connected for twenty-three playoff homers, making him third all-time after Manny Ramirez (twenty-nine) and Altuve (twenty-seven).
"There's probably not anyone else in the world that I'd prefer in that spot other than him with his playoff prowess," remarked manager John Schneider.
Seattle's team, despite leading the series 2-0 and 3-2, continue to be the only MLB franchise never to appear in a championship series.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson commented "there's no question that it's going to sting" following his side's defeat at Rogers Centre, but commended their work in the campaign.
"They're an exceptional squad. Sadly that we finished on the unsuccessful side of this game," he continued.
Toronto's team secured the championship on each of their earlier trips in 1992 and 1993, and will welcome the Dodgers in the first game on this Friday.
