Starting pitcher Marcus Stroman was pulled after just four innings, giving up three runs on six hits. The Blue Jays’ offense also struggled, managing just two runs on four hits.

Now, the Blue Jays will have to win three straight games in order to advance to the ALDS. Game 2 of the series is on Saturday, with Blue Jays ace Aaron Sanchez taking on Mariners starter Felix Hernandez. First pitch is scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET.

Gausman was excellent in his last start, pitching seven shutout innings while scattering four hits and striking out nine batters. The Blue Jays will need him to be at his best again if they want to stay alive in this series.

Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been limited to designated hitter duty this season due to a sprained oblique, but is expected to return to the lineup for this game.

The Blue Jays have won five of their last six games against the Mariners, including a three-game sweep at Rogers Centre last month.

Guerrero Jr. has been a big part of the Blue Jays’ success against the Mariners, hitting .444 (8-for-18) with two home runs and five RBIs in four games against them this season.

The Blue Jays will send right-hander Taijuan Walker to the mound for the opener of the series. Walker has a 2-1 record and 4.50 ERA in four starts this season. The Mariners will counter with lefty Robbie Ray, who won the American League Cy Young award while pitching for Toronto in 2021.

The Mariners will turn to left-hander Marco Gonzales, who was also excellent in his last start. He pitched seven shutout innings while scattering four hits and striking out eight batters.

Both teams are desperate for a win, so it should be an exciting game. Be sure to tune in to catch all the action!