Toronto Blue Jays Claim Fall Classic Matchup Versus Los Angeles Dodgers
The outfielder was instrumental for the Houston Astros claiming the championship in 2017.
The Toronto Blue Jays reached their initial World Series following the 1993 season by defeating the Mariners in the seventh game seven of the ALCS.
Trailing 3-1, Springer delivered a three-run blast in the seventh, guiding the Toronto squad in the majors to a 4-3 series victory in the best-of-seven series. Next up are the defending champions, holders of the reigning title, in the upcoming Fall Classic.
"I'm thrilled for everyone here, our city, Canada," commented Springer, an integral part of the Houston Astros team that claimed the 2017 championship. "This is such an incredible feeling."
Springer has now hit 23 playoff homers, ranking him third in history after Ramirez (29) and Altuve (twenty-seven).
"There's probably not another person on planet Earth that I'd choose in that moment besides Springer with his post-season brilliance," said manager John Schneider.
The Mariners, despite leading the series 2-0 and 3-2, are still the one club yet to make an appearance in a World Series.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson said "there's no question that it hurts" following his side's defeat at Rogers Centre, but praised their performance throughout the year.
"They're an exceptional squad. It's a shame that we finished on the losing end of the series," he added.
The Blue Jays secured the title on each of their earlier trips in 1992 and 1993, and are set to host the Los Angeles in the opener on the upcoming Friday.
