Blue Jays Await ALDS Showdown at Rogers Centre
The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for their American League Division Series (ALDS) matchup, keeping a close eye on the Wild Card round as their division rivals clash. With the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees battling it out, the outcome will determine who makes the journey to the Rogers Centre this weekend.
Wild Card Round Developments
The Red Sox kicked off their series with a solid 3-1 victory over the Yankees on Tuesday night in New York. As they prepare for Game 2 on Wednesday, there’s a chance for Boston to seal the series. However, should the Yankees find a way to win, a decisive Game 3 will take place on Thursday. The Blue Jays are undoubtedly hoping for a lengthy encounter, as the longer the series extends, the more taxing it becomes for both teams ahead of the ALDS.
MLB’s Game Time Announcements
On Wednesday, Major League Baseball unveiled two potential scenarios for the first two games of the ALDS at the Rogers Centre. If the Red Sox triumph in the Wild Card series, Game 1 will commence on Saturday at 1:08 p.m. ET. Conversely, should the Yankees advance, the first game will start at 4:08 p.m. ET. Regardless of the victor, Game 2 is set for Sunday at 4:08 p.m. ET.
Home-Field Advantage Secured
Toronto clinched home-field advantage throughout the American League playoffs by winning the AL East, highlighted by a decisive 13-4 win against the Tampa Bay Rays. They also bested the Yankees in their season series, which proved crucial as both teams finished tied for first in the division.
This bye week is particularly beneficial for the Blue Jays, especially concerning Bo Bichette’s recovery from injury. Manager John Schneider previously deemed it “highly unlikely” for Bichette to return this week, but the additional five days of rest could enhance his chances of making a comeback in time for the weekend’s action.
Pitching Staff Reset and Preparation
The Blue Jays are also fortunate to have this break to reset their pitching lineup. Kevin Gausman, who pitched against the Rays on Sunday, would have been unavailable for the Wild Card series. Now, he will be able to take the mound on regular rest, ready to face either the Red Sox or Yankees.
In preparation, Toronto will hold a couple of intersquad games on Wednesday and Thursday, each lasting 4-5 innings. Fans can attend these games for a modest fee of $10. While the intensity won’t match that of a playoff game, these matchups allow hitters to face live pitching and give pitchers the chance to work against live batters, keeping them sharp as the postseason approaches.
Expectations for the Series
As the Blue Jays look ahead, they would prefer to see the Wild Card series extend to three games, putting added pressure on both the Red Sox and Yankees. The more pitches thrown and games played prior to their matchup, the better positioned Toronto will be as they aim for a deep playoff run.
With anticipation building around the Rogers Centre, the Blue Jays are ready to embrace the challenge, regardless of who emerges from the Wild Card fray.
