The Toronto Blue Jays are close to securing their first playoff series win in almost ten years, with the opportunity to advance to the next round scheduled for Tuesday in the Bronx after dominating the New York Yankees in their two home games. Game 3 of the American League Division Series (ALDS) is slated to commence just after 8 p.m. ET.
Jeffrey Mizen, a devoted Jays fan from Ontario residing in New York state, will be present at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday, anticipating witnessing a remarkable event. Expressing his confidence in the team, Mizen stated, “I know they’re gonna win. They’re playing fantastic.”
Across the border, Toronto superfan Lesley Mak is also optimistic about the team’s chances to progress further in the playoffs. Mak conveyed, “The team of destiny feels unstoppable.”
With a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five divisional series, the Blue Jays require only one more victory to advance to the American League Championship Series (ALCS). The team previously reached the ALCS in 2015 and 2016.
On the contrary, the Yankees face a crucial moment in Game 3 on Tuesday. Should they secure a win against Toronto, they will encounter a similar scenario in a potential Game 4 on Wednesday, also in the Bronx. If a Game 5 is necessary, it will be held in Toronto on Friday.
The Jays’ path to this stage has been remarkable. They showcased an explosive offense, scoring a total of 23 runs in the initial two games, coupled with outstanding performances from their starting pitchers. In Game 1, the Blue Jays triumphed over the Yankees 10-1, highlighted by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s home run and Alejandro Kirk’s two homers. Game 2 witnessed the Jays defeating the Yankees 13-7, with rookie pitcher Trey Yesavage setting a franchise record by striking out 11 batters.
Looking ahead to Game 3, former Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber will take the mound for Toronto, while the Yankees will rely on veteran Carlos Rodón. The possibility of a sweep exists, although it remains uncertain given the Yankees’ strong performance during the regular season.
Teams with a 2-0 lead in past best-of-five post-season series have historically emerged victorious in 80 out of 90 instances, although the Yankees have shown resilience in the past. Despite varying opinions on the Yankees’ potential for a comeback, the prevailing sentiment is that the Blue Jays stand as formidable opponents.
In the event of a successful outcome in Game 3, the Blue Jays would face either the Seattle Mariners or the Detroit Tigers in the ALCS series. Subsequently, the World Series beckons, where the top American League and National League teams compete in a best-of-seven showdown. The Blue Jays last clinched victory at this level over 30 years ago, securing consecutive World Series titles in 1992 and 1993.
