When George Springer, the 35‑year‑old outfielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, stepped up to the plate in the seventh inning of Game 7, he probably wasn’t thinking about history books. But his three‑run homer off Seattle reliever Eduard Bazardo changed everything, sending the crowd at Rogers Centre into a frenzy and clinching a 4‑3 victory over the Seattle Mariners. The win closed out the 2025 American League Championship Series and booked Toronto’s first World Series appearance since the legendary Joe Carter walk‑off in 1993.
A Historic Game‑7 Comeback
The ALCS had been a roller‑coaster from the start. The Blue Jays stumbled out of the gate, dropping the first two games at home despite a 94‑68 regular‑season record that crowned them AL East champions. Seattle, buoyed by a potent lineup, took a 3‑1 lead into the seventh inning of the decisive game. Then the momentum flipped.
Springer’s blast, a 425‑foot drive that landed in the left‑field seats, turned a looming defeat into an instant legend. It wasn’t just the three runs; it was the timing. With two outs and the Mariners clinging to a 3‑1 edge, the Blue Jays needed a miracle. The miracle arrived, and the stadium erupted.
Springer’s Defining Home Run
What made the shot so iconic wasn’t just its distance. It was the pressure. Bazardo, who had entered the game after starter Bryan Woo walked a batter and surrendered a sacrifice bunt, was trying to preserve the lead. The count went full, and Springer launched a sky‑high line that seemed to hang for a second before dropping cleanly onto the seats.
Afterward, the outfielder leapt, fists raised, and trotted the bases with a grin you could see from the rooftop bar. In the post‑game interview, Springer said, "I just tried to see the ball and swing. I didn’t think about the series; I thought about getting a good swing." That modest comment only added to the myth.
The Road to the ALCS
- Regular season: 94 wins, AL East title
- First two ALCS games: losses at home (2‑0)
- Turnaround in Seattle: two wins at T‑Mobile Park
- Game 7: 4‑3 win at Rogers Centre
The Blue Jays’ postseason run has been a study in resilience. After the early setbacks, veteran pitcher Alek Manoah steadied the staff, while slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. delivered timely hits. Their young core, none of whom were born when the franchise last appeared in a Game 7 in 1985, showed poise beyond their years.
Reactions from Players and Fans
In the stands, the roar was deafening. “We’ve waited 32 years for this,” said longtime fan Maria Lopez, who arrived early to snag a seat near the left‑field wall. Social media lit up with clips of the home run looping endlessly, the hashtag #SpringerSeries trending across platforms.
Seattle’s manager, Scott Servais, was gracious in defeat. "We gave it everything, and they made a big play at the right time," he said. The Mariners, who haven’t been to an ALCS Game 7 since their 2001 run, will likely use this as motivation for next season.
What the World Series Matchup Means
Toronto now faces the Los Angeles Dodgers in a classic East‑vs‑West showdown. The Dodgers, fresh off a dominant regular season, bring a powerhouse lineup headlined by Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw. The series will follow a 2‑3‑2 format, with Games 1 and 2 back in Toronto on October 24‑25, then three in LA, and a possible return for Games 6‑7.
Analysts are already debating whether the Blue Jays’ youthful energy can outlast the Dodgers’ experience. Former MLB pitcher David Ortiz told ESPN, "Springer’s moment shows they have the big‑time vibe. If they can keep that fire, they’ll be a real threat."
Looking Ahead
The city of Toronto is gearing up for a weekend that feels like a holiday. Bars on King Street are already booking “World Series” parties, and the city council announced a night‑time fireworks display for October 26 to celebrate the achievement.
For the players, the focus shifts quickly. Manoah is already reviewing his pitch count, while Springer knows that another big moment could be just a swing away in LA. One thing’s clear: this generation of Blue Jays will be remembered for ending a 32‑year drought, and they’ve done it with style.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this victory affect Toronto’s chances in the World Series?
The win gives the Blue Jays momentum and home‑field advantage for the first two games, which historically improves a team’s odds. Their young core showed they can handle pressure, a trait that could tilt close games in their favor against the experienced Dodgers.
What were the key statistical highlights of Game 7?
Toronto recorded 10 hits, three walks, and no errors, while Seattle managed eight hits and struck out six batters. Springer’s three‑run homer accounted for 75% of Toronto’s runs, and the Blue Jays’ bullpen allowed just one run after the seventh inning.
Who are the standout players to watch in the upcoming World Series?
Besides Springer, keep an eye on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s power and Alek Manoah’s poise on the mound. For the Dodgers, Mookie Betts’ all‑around play and Clayton Kershaw’s veteran presence will be crucial.
What does this win mean for baseball fans in Canada?
It reignites national interest in MLB, the first time a Canadian team has reached the World Series in over three decades. Expect a surge in merchandise sales, higher TV ratings, and a wave of youth participation in baseball programs across the country.
When and where is the first World Series game scheduled?
Game 1 kicks off on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto. The doors open at 7:05 PM local time, and the matchup will be broadcast nationally in both Canada and the United States.
