Canada's Blue Jays Claim Fall Classic Showdown Versus defending champion Dodgers
George Springer was instrumental for the Houston Astros winning the championship in 2017.
Toronto's Blue Jays reached their initial Fall Classic after 1993 by defeating the Mariners in the final game seven of the American League Championship Series.
Trailing 3-1, outfielder George Springer hit a three-run homer in the seventh inning, leading the only Canadian franchise in Major League Baseball to a 4-3 series victory in the seven-game series. They will now face the Los Angeles Dodgers, holders of the reigning title, in the upcoming World Series.
"It's incredible for our team, our city, Canada," said Springer, an integral part of the Houston Astros team that claimed the 2017 championship. "What an incredible feeling."
The veteran has now hit 23 total playoff homers, placing him third all-time trailing only Ramirez (29) and Altuve (27).
"There's probably not anyone else on planet Earth that I'd prefer in that situation besides Springer with his playoff prowess," noted Schneider.
Seattle, after leading the series two games to none and three games to two, continue to be the only MLB franchise yet to make an appearance in a championship series.
Manager Dan Wilson stated "without a doubt that it hurts" following his club's elimination at their home ballpark, but praised their efforts this season.
"It's a special team. Sadly that we finished on the wrong side of the series," he remarked.
Toronto's team secured the championship on each of their earlier trips in the early 90s, and will welcome the Los Angeles in the opener on this Friday.
