The Athletic provides live updates of the Mariners vs. Blue Jays during Game 6 of the ALCS.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured a much-needed break. With a strong performance this October, boasting a 9-1 record that includes a sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series, they can now observe who will oppose them in the upcoming 2025 World Series.
Three Reasons Dodgers Fans Should Favor the Toronto Blue Jays
1. The Blue Jays Will Have Exhausted Their Pitching
The Blue Jays have put themselves in a tough spot after dropping their first two games at Rogers Centre during this series. They were close to leading the series at 3-2 but now rely on rookie Trey Yesavage to keep their hopes alive. This contrasts with the Dodgers, who can optimize their pitching lineup given their strong rotation.
2. The Blue Jays’ Left-Handed Hitters Aren’t as Tough as Those of the Phillies or Brewers
While the Phillies and Brewers effectively contained Shohei Ohtani by fielding tough left-handers against him, the Blue Jays lack equivalent strength in their lefty lineup. Their pitchers Brendon Little and Mason Fluharty, although noteworthy, aren’t renowned for stopping players like Ohtani or Freddie Freeman. Only three lefties are on the Blue Jays pitching staff this postseason, making it less complicated for the Dodgers.
3. Key Players are Missing From Their Lineup
Even with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. shining brightly this postseason, the Blue Jays’ lineup isn’t at full capacity. Outfielder Anthony Santander is out, shortstop Bo Bichette has not participated, and designated hitter George Springer left Game 5 early due to injury. This weakened group may become easier to manage for the Dodgers’ pitchers.
Three Reasons Dodgers Fans Should Root for the Seattle Mariners
1. High Strikeout Potential
The Dodgers’ pitching strategy revolves around achieving strikeouts, and they have maintained a high strikeout rate throughout both the season and postseason. The Mariners’ offense, while powerful, has a notable tendency to strike out, providing the Dodgers with opportunities to exploit this vulnerability.
2. Health Concerns Surrounding Bryan Woo
If Bryan Woo were fully fit, he could match the Dodgers’ strong starting rotation. However, his recent performance is uncertain as he returned in Game 5 after an injury. His status will be pivotal if the Mariners reach the World Series, especially since he was their most reliable starter during the regular season.
3. Home-Field Advantage Issues
The Blue Jays’ advancement would mean the Dodgers starting the World Series in Toronto and losing home-field advantage. Conversely, a Mariners win allows the Dodgers to begin the series at home, where they excelled throughout the season. The Mariners have performed better at T-Mobile Park this postseason, yet they struggled away from home during the regular season.
