Springer’s 3-Run Homer Sends Blue Jays to World Series

George Springer launched a three-run, go-ahead home run with one out in the bottom of the seventh inning of Game 7 of the ALCS, turning a 3–1 deficit into a 4–3 lead and sending the Toronto Blue Jays to the World Series for the first time since 1993. The blast came off Eduard Bazardo after starter Bryan Woo was removed and was hailed as one of the franchise’s defining postseason moments, with MLB noting its historical significance in a Game 7. Toronto will meet the defending-champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the Fall Classic, with Game 1 scheduled for Oct. 24. Critics faulted the Seattle bullpen choices, notably not calling on closer Andrés Muñoz sooner, and analysts compared Springer’s shot to past Blue Jays icons such as José Bautista and Joe Carter. Springer, who had played through discomfort late in the series, celebrated wildly in Toronto’s locker room, including a shirtless celebration.