Springer’s walk-off sends Blue Jays to first World Series since 1993
On Monday, October 20, 2025, George Springer, the 35‑year‑old outfielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, hit a go‑ahead three‑run home run in the seventh inning of Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, sealing a 4‑3 win over the Seattle Mariners and clinching the franchise’s first World Series berth since 1993. The dramatic blast came at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario, sending the stadium into a frenzy and sparking celebrations that spilled onto the city’s streets.
Historical Context: Blue Jays’ Road Back to the Fall Classic
Toronto entered the 2025 postseason on the back of a 94‑win regular season that topped the American League East. The last time the Blue Jays tasted World Series glory was in 1993, when Joe Carter’s iconic walk‑off clinched back‑to‑back titles. Since then, the club had made multiple playoff appearances but always fell short, most notably in the 1985 ALCS Game 7 – a loss that older fans still recall with a twinge of regret.
This year’s ALCS was a revelation. After dropping the first two games at home, the Jays rallied to win two of three in Seattle, forcing a decisive Game 7 back in Toronto. The swing from early deficit to ultimate triumph mirrors the club’s broader resurgence under manager John Schneider, who emphasized patience and depth throughout the season.
Game 7 Recap: How the Seventh Inning Changed Everything
Boston‑trained reliever Bryan Woo opened the seventh inning for Toronto, issuing a walk, a hit and a sacrifice bunt before being replaced by Seattle’s Eduard Bazardo. With two outs and the Jays trailing 3‑1, Springer stepped into the box and launched a sinker into the left‑field seats for a three‑run blast that put Toronto ahead 4‑3.
For the Mariners, the night ended in heartbreak. catcher Cal Raleigh was seen wiping his eyes outside the visiting clubhouse, muttering, “It just sucks… it hurts.” The loss left Seattle as the only MLB franchise still without a World Series appearance after 49 seasons.
Closing the game, veteran right‑hander Jeff Hoffman retired all three batters he faced in the ninth, becoming the first pitcher since Calvin Schiraldi in the 1986 ALCS to strike out the final three hitters of a Game 7.
Key Performances and Pitching Duel
- George Springer – 3‑run homer, 1‑RBI, .300 batting average in the series.
- Eduard Bazardo – gave up the decisive home run after a solid first appearance.
- Bryan Woo – struggled in the seventh, prompting an early hook.
- Jeff Hoffman – flawless 1.00 ERA across three innings, including the final strikeout trio.
- Cal Raleigh – 2‑hit night, but his emotional response underscored Seattle’s disappointment.
Statistically, the Blue Jays out‑slugged Seattle 19‑12 over the series, while their bullpen posted a combined 2.88 ERA. The swing in momentum after Game 4, where Toronto stole a 4‑2 win in Seattle, proved decisive.
Mariners’ Drought Persists; What’s Next for Seattle
Seattle heads into the off‑season with a roster that’s partly under contract and partly up for arbitration. Shortstop J.P. Crawford has one year left on his extension, while outfielder Randy Arozarena faces a year of arbitration. Center‑fielder Victor Robles and second‑baseman Jorge Polanco are both slated to test free agency.
Analysts predict Seattle may look to bolstep its pitching depth, which was exposed in the final inning of Game 7. Speculation has already begun around possible trades for a left‑handed starter before the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead: Blue Jays vs. Dodgers in the 2025 World Series
The Toronto Blue Jays will meet the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2025 World Series, scheduled to begin Friday, October 24, 2025, with games alternating between Rogers Centre and Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium.
Toronto’s fans are already dreaming of a repeat of the 1993 celebration, while the Dodgers, fresh off a dominant postseason run, will look to add another championship to their storied history. The series promises a clash of contrasting styles: Toronto’s power‑heavy lineup versus Los Angeles’ blend of elite pitching and speed.
Broadcast rights have been secured by Sportsnet nationally, with streaming available via Sportsnet+ and highlights posted on YouTube the day after the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Blue Jays' ALCS win affect Toronto fans?
The victory ignites city‑wide celebrations, revives memories of the 1993 triumph, and boosts local businesses. Ticket demand for the World Series is expected to surge, with many fans planning travel from across Canada.
What are the Mariners' biggest roster challenges after the loss?
Seattle must decide whether to retain key arbiters like Arozarena and Robles or explore free‑agency markets. Their pitching staff, thin in the later innings, will likely be a focal point for off‑season acquisitions.
When does the 2025 World Series start and where will games be played?
Game 1 kicks off on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto. The series will alternate venues, with even‑numbered games slated for Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
Who were the standout players in Game 7?
George Springer’s clutch homer stole the show, while Jeff Hoffman’s immaculate ninth‑inning strikeout trio preserved the lead. For Seattle, Cal Raleigh’s emotional response highlighted the team’s heart, even though the Mariners fell short.
How does this victory compare to the 1993 championship run?
Both runs feature dramatic, late‑inning heroics that galvanized the fan base. However, the 2025 squad relied heavily on a deep bullpen, whereas the 1993 team leaned on a dominant starting rotation.
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