It’s first time vs. long time in the American League Championship Series, as the Seattle Mariners aim to take the last step toward the first World Series appearance in their franchise’s history.
Standing in their way: The Toronto Blue Jays, who haven’t sniffed the Fall Classic since winning consecutive championships in 1992 and ’93. They’re back in the ALCS for the first time since 2016.
And in a playoffs marked by bullpen games and quick hooks, both teams should bring representative starting rotations to the fight.
The Blue Jays added starters Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt to their ALCS roster, with Scherzer expected to follow Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber to start Game 4. Bassitt, who missed the AL Division Series with back inflammation, is available as a long man out of the bullpen.
Seattle needs to reload after its 15-inning epic to claim its ALDS against Detroit, and will start Bryce Miller in Game 1.
