Toronto Blue Jays Claim Fall Classic Matchup Against defending champion Dodgers
George Springer contributed to the Astros claiming the World Series in the 2017 season.
Toronto's Blue Jays earned a spot in their initial championship series since 1993 by defeating the Seattle Mariners in the seventh Game 7 of the American League Championship Series.
Behind 3-1, the star outfielder hit a three-run blast in the seventh inning, leading the sole Canadian team in the majors to a four games to three triumph in the best-of-seven series. Awaiting them are the Dodgers, the team that is the defending champions, in the forthcoming World Series.
"I'm just so happy for everyone here, our city, our country," said Springer, a star of the Astros team that claimed the 2017 title. "This is such an unbelievable moment."
The veteran has now hit twenty-three playoff homers, making him third in history behind Manny Ramirez (29) and Jose Altuve (twenty-seven).
"There's probably not anyone else in the world that I'd choose in that moment except for him with his post-season brilliance," noted manager John Schneider.
The Mariners, despite leading the series 2-0 and 3-2, are still the only MLB franchise that has never reached in a championship series.
Manager Dan Wilson stated "without a doubt that it's painful" following his team's loss at Rogers Centre, but praised their performance throughout the year.
"This is a unique group. Sadly that we finished on the unsuccessful side of this game," he continued.
Toronto secured the World Series on both previous visits in the early 90s, and are set to host the Dodgers in the first game on Friday.
