The Mariners and Blue Jays are set to face off in the winner-take-all Game 7 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS). The victor will claim the pennant and advance to this year’s World Series to challenge the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers.

Seattle is on the cusp of making history, sitting just one win away from securing their first-ever American League crown. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays aim to make a return to the Fall Classic after their back-to-back titles in 1992 and 1993.

With the stakes higher than ever for the Mariners franchise, some fans have expressed concern and skepticism about the team’s chances against the Blue Jays. Notably, in the three ALCS matchups that required a Game 7 in the last decade, the higher-seeded team won the decisive contest twice, underscoring the difficulty of the challenge ahead for Seattle.

For context, this ALCS appearance marks the furthest the Seattle franchise has ever advanced in the MLB postseason since its establishment in 1977.

### Starting Pitchers for Game 7

Seattle skipper Dan Wilson has named George Kirby as the starting pitcher for the deciding game. Kirby has a 0-1 record across three postseason appearances with a 7.07 ERA. On the other side, the Blue Jays will counter with veteran Kevin Gausman, who holds a 1-0 record in two starts this postseason, posting a 4.15 ERA.

With the matchup set and the stakes so high, the Mariners face an uphill battle to secure what could be the biggest victory in franchise history—winning on the road against a formidable Blue Jays team.

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### Blue Jays Extend Series Behind Yesavage’s Masterclass

The Blue Jays successfully extended the ALCS after winning Game 6 at home, thanks to rookie Trey Yesavage’s superb pitching performance. Facing elimination, Toronto secured a 6-2 victory against the high-powered Mariners offense.

Yesavage delivered a masterclass on the mound, pitching six innings and allowing six hits, with seven strikeouts and three walks. He escaped multiple jams throughout the game, proving to be a clutch performer despite his limited time in the league.

The Blue Jays’ run support was strong, backing Yesavage’s effort. Addison Barger, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. each drove in runs in the high-intensity contest.

In contrast, the Mariners’ bats struggled at the top of the lineup. Julio Rodriguez, Cal Raleigh, and Jorge Polanco combined to go 0-for-11 at the plate. Seattle’s only offense came from Josh Naylor’s solo home run and Eugenio Suarez’s RBI single.

With the series now tied, both teams will look to seize momentum in the thrilling Game 7 showdown.
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