‘I’m not scared of LA’: Toronto fans celebrate World Series-bound Blue Jays. Recap of game and celebrations here.

The Toronto Blue Jays are going to the World Series for the first time in more than three decades.

They defeated the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series 4-3 on Monday night.

Toronto will face the defending champions Los Angeles Dodgers.

Game 1 of the World Series will be at Rogers Centre on Friday night.

The last time Toronto played in the World Series was 1993, when they won it all for the second straight year.

Follow along here for live updates:

12:24 a.m. - Fans flood the streets

The streets of downtown Toronto are filled with Blue Jays fans celebrating the team who is headed to the World Series for the time since 1993.

People are waving the Blue Jays’ rally towels while some are seen scaling street poles to mark the victory. Police have closed the roads around Rogers Centre to accommodate the celebrations.

“We’re coming for it. Dodgers don’t got nothing on us. We’re ready for it. Let’s go,” one fan told CTV News.

“I’m super excited,” a young fan said.

Another fan said: “This is absolutely monumental. We needed this Canada. We needed this. Things aren’t all gone to crap. We’ve got this. And the World Series will be a huge celebration for our country.”

One fan screamed: “I’m not scared of LA.”

Taking over downtown intersections, fans also sing the Canadian national anthem and “OK Blue Jays,” the team’s seventh-inning stretch song.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist, with files from Rahim Ladhani, CTV News Toronto Video Journalist

12:16 a.m. - Toronto’s very own reacts to win

For the first time this postseason, Drake posts about the Blue Jays after winning the American League and advancing to the World Series.

12 a.m. - Bichette says he’ll be ready to play in World Series

Speaking to TSN, Bo Bichette who hasn’t played in the postseason due to a knee injury says, “I’ll be ready” when asked if he’ll be in the World Series.

11:57 p.m. - Schneider on Springer HR: ‘I will never forget’

Blue Jays manager John Schneider says Springer’s home run is “something I will never forget.”

“I will never forget how I felt,” Schneider said. “That moment will live with me forever.”

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:50 p.m. - Springer recounts HR moment

During the celebrations, George Springer says he how loud it was in the stadium.

“Obviously, watching the Bautista moment over and over. It felt like it was that loud,” he said, referring to Jose Bautista iconic post-season home run in 2015.

He praised Addison Barger, Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Andres Giminez for starting the rally in the seventh.

“Three unbelievable at bats,” Springer said. He added that he just wanted to score Barger who was on third base.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:47 p.m. - Yesavage sings ‘O Canada’ during champagne celebrations

Trey Yesavage finally had the chance to prove he knows more than just two words of the Canadian national anthem after he told MLB on Fox he had memorized.

When CP24’s Phil Perkins asked him how he’s memorization was going, Yesavage broke out into song and got half of the anthem.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

11:38 p.m. - ‘We’re going to try and win it all’

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. says it feels amazing to advance to the World Series, crediting his teammates for doing their part.

“We’re going to try and win it all,” he tells CTV Toronto’ Sean Leathong during the clubhouse celebrations.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:35 p.m. - Jays win Game 7 in pictures

11:33 p.m. - Champagne showers

Celebrations continue inside the clubhouse with Blue Jays players popping champagne and cracking open can of beer.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:28 p.m. - Fans celebrate in the streets

As the team continues to celebrate on the field, fans are in the streets, chanting “Let’s Go Blue Jays.”

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:23 p.m. - Blue Jays fans react to win

Elated Blue Jays fans coming out of the Rogers Centre after the game are all smiles.

“It was amazing. Absolutely amazing,” one fan told CP24. “Everything just went nuts.”

“What a group of players,” he added.

Another fan said: “It’s a historic moment.”

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:17 p.m. - Vlad Jr. wins ALCS MVP

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. wins the American League Championship Series MVP.

“Job’s not finished,” Guerrero said after being presented with the MVP trophy.

The Blue Jays also hoist the American League trophy during the ceremony on the field.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:09 p.m. - Canadian politicians react to win

Prime Minister Mark Carney:

Ontario Premier Doug Ford:

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow:

11:06 p.m. - Springer: ‘This is for them’

Game 7 hero George Springer says the victory is for the city and for the country.

“Tarps off baby,” he screams to conclude his on-field interview.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

11:04 p.m. - Blue Jays celebrate on the field

After the final out, Blue Jays players run to the field to celebrate their victory. Smiling from ear to ear, they exchange hugs.

In his on-field interview, an emotional Vladimir Guerrero Jr. says he wants this for the city.

“Four more,” he said.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

FINAL SCORE: Blue Jays 4, Mariners 3

The Blue Jays have won the American League pennant after beating the Mariners in seven games.

Springer hit the go-ahead home run in the bottom of the seventh inning, sending Toronto to the World Series.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

10:52 p.m. – Springer home run makes history

George Springer’s three-run homer set a number of benchmarks for the Jays designated hitter. With his 23rd postseason home run, he ties Kyle Schwarber for third most in the league, behind Jose Altuve with 27 and Manny Ramírez with 29.

Springer’s homer was also the first go-ahead home run trailing by multiple runs in the 7th inning or later in Game 7 history.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

10:42 p.m. - 3 more outs from the World Series

Chris Bassitt keeps the Blue Jays’ 4-3 lead, pitching a scoreless top of the eighth inning. Toronto is three outs away from the World Series.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

10:39 p.m. - Jays dugout celebrates HR

10:34 p.m. - Rogers Centre defeaning

George Springer home run gives the Blue Jays a 4-3 lead and the Rogers Centre is deafening. I’ve never heard it this loud. It’s his 23rd post-season home run.

- Rahim Ladhani, CTV News Toronto Video Journalist

10:31 p.m. - Springer gives Jays lead

With two on, George Springer hits a home run to give the Blue Jays a 4-3 lead in the bottom of the seventh inning.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

10:27 p.m. - Jays threatening

After Andres Giminez moved two runners up into scoring position, Bryan Woo is done and is replaced by Eduard Bazardo. George Springer will bat with one out.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

10:19 p.m. - Three innings left for Jays

Kevin Gausman pitched a scoreless top of the seventh inning. The Blue Jays have three more innings to get the lead or their season is over.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

10:09 p.m. - Gausman in

Kevin Gausman, who started in Games and 5, is coming out to pitch in the top of the seventh inning as the Blue Jays trail the Mariners 3-1.

This is his first relief outing since the 2021 postseason.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

9:57 p.m. – Schneider explains his reliance on Varland

Speaking to MLB on FOX field reporter Ken Rosenthal, manager John Schneider explained why Varland has made 10 starts in 11 postseason games.

“His personality for one, and then obviously his stuff,” he said. “He’s a pretty unique guy to where the velo, shape of his pitches doesn’t really vary no matter how much we use him it seems like. We’re going to ride him as long as we can.”

“We’ve got everyone available. We’re going to just try to pick the right spot in their lineup. Right now, it’s just all hands on deck and we’ve got plenty of coverage.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

9:51 p.m. - Crowd cheers on Jays as they trail Mariners

In the top of the fifth inning and Gimenez on first base, the crowd was getting louder. You could feel they’re getting and anxious and waiting to “pop off” they just need a big moment to react to.

Unfortunately, Springer struck out and Lukes grounded to an inning-ending double play.

- Rahim Ladhani, CTV News Toronto Video Journalist

9:41 p.m. - Raleigh hits solo homer to widen Mariners’ lead

Cal Raleigh hits a solo home run off of Louis Varland in the top of the fifth inning to lift the Mariners to a 3-1 lead.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

9:31 p.m. – Mariners fans react to J-Rod’s homer at T-Mobile Park watch party

9:28 p.m. - Varland ends top of 4th inning

Louis Varland gets Julio Rodriguez to ground out to end the top of the fourth inning and keep the Blue Jays within striking distance.

Shane Bieber’s final pitching line: 3.2 innings, seven hits, two runs, one walk and five strikeouts.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

9:24 p.m. - Bieber done

After walking the ninth hitter to put two baserunners on and Julio Rodriguez batting next, Jays manager John Schneider has taken the ball from Shane Bieber.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

9:05 p.m. – Looking at historic postseason stats as Mariners and Jays face off

MLB writer Sarah Langs shared some ALCS stats as Game 7 continues. According to Langs, there have only been four postseason Game 7s, including tonight, where both teams have scored in the first inning.

She also shared that teams that score first are 89-49 all-time in winner-take-all postseason games.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

9:02 p.m. - J-Rod homers

After scoring the first run of the game, Julio Rodriguez hits a solo home run to give the Mariners the lead in the top of the third inning.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:59 p.m. - Blue Jays’ busking drummer Rockin’ Rick retiring after 36 years

His sound is synonymous with Toronto Blue Jays home games. Legendary drumming busker Rick Donaldson, affectionately known to most as Rockin’ Rick, has been bringing the beat to the ballpark since 1989.

But after 36 seasons of busking outside The Dome, Donaldson says the time has come to retire.

He’ll be hanging up his sticks at the end of this season.“I know I’ve performed for over 1 million people, for sure, and, you know, I just wanna thank the fans, my family, and the fans, thank you, thank you, thank you,” he said.

“The Blue Jays organization, thank you for giving me this opportunity and it’s time.”

Always marching to the beat of his own drum, Donaldson says he’s especially enjoyed rocking out with the fans.

“My favourite part is the interactions with the fans, you know. It’s more fans pumping them up! You know, getting them ready to cheer hard inside,” he said.

As for what’s next, Rockin’ Rick says he has no plan to slow down, adding that he intends to continue touring as a musician around Canada.

Read more here.

- Joanna Lavoie, CP24.com journalist and Jessica Smith, CTV News Toronto Weather Anchor & Video Journalist

8:47 p.m. - Bieber escapes jam

With runners on second and third bases, Shane Bieber strikes out Leo Rivas and gets Victor Robles to ground out to keep the game tied.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:37 p.m. - Varsho ties game

With two outs, Daulton Varsho drives in George Springer to tie the game in the bottom of the first inning.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:22 p.m. - Umpires rule Naylor out

After a long meeting on the field, umpires ruled that Josh Naylor prevented Ernie Clement from completing a double play by jumping in the path of his throw, rewarding the Blue Jays the third out and ending the first inning.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:19 p.m. - Mariners get on board

Julio Rodriguez who doubled to open the game crosses the home plate after Josh Naylor hits a single with one out. Mariners are up early 1-0.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:17 p.m. - Fan may have been hit by foul ball

A person is in need of medical attention after they appear to have been directly hit by a Cal Raleigh foul ball in the top of the first inning. A police officer and staff are now attending to them.

- Rahim Ladhani, CTV News Toronto Video Journalist

8:08 p.m. - 27 outs to the World Series

Game 7 is underway and the Toronto Blue Jays and Seattle Mariners are 27 outs away from advancing to the World Series.

Shane Bieber has taken the mound and is set to face Julio Rodriguez, Cal Raleigh and Josh Naylor.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

8:07 p.m. - Jays fans boo Kirby

Inside the Rogers Centre, fans are booing Mariners starting pitcher George Kirby relentlessly as he exits the bullpen and makes his way onto the field.

- Rahim Ladhani, CTV News Toronto Video Journalist

8:02 p.m. - Estrada throws ceremonial first pitch

Former Blue Jays starting pitcher Marco Estrada threw the ceremonial first pitch ahead of Game 7.

- Bryann Aguilar, CP24.com journalist

7:55 p.m. – ‘We know our role’: IKF

Pregame, Isiah Kiner-Falefa spoke with MLB Network’s Jon Morosi about the production at the bottom of the Blue Jays’ order.

“We know our role. We understand who’s at the top of our order and we take pride in that,” said Kiner-Falefa.

“I think a lot of teams, they just want the big homers… we’re able to produce and do different things and put the ball in play. Contact is coming back into the game, and it’s good to see that more teams are starting to look for contact, I think it’s great for the game.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.cajournalist

7:40 p.m. - Offence needs to show up ‘big’

The offence will need to show up big and be ready to battle, but to quote Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is having a historic postseason so far: “I was born ready.” There’s no one this fan base would rather have at the wheel right now than Vladdy, who has six dingers this postseason and is hitting just under .500 since the most important baseball of the season began.

George Springer is clearly struggling after taking a fastball to the knee in the eighth inning of Game 5. Despite being in the lineup yesterday, he was in visible discomfort all game and wasn’t getting his A-swing off. That said, it’s moments like this that make playoff heroes — and I wouldn’t bet against George coming up big, even on one leg.

- Scott Belford, host of ‘The Walk Off’ Toronto Blue Jays podcast and guest contributor

7:19 p.m. - Energy levels are high outside of Rogers Centre

It’s a sea of blue as fans donning Jays jerseys arrive by the thousands for Game 7. The most popular name we’re seeing on their backs? Gotta be Vladdy!

- Melissa Duggan, CP24 video journalist

7:10 p.m. - Lead off hitters important both offensively and defensively: Jeter

Former New York Yankee Derek Jeter said Game 7’s are exciting because you see things you “normally don’t see.”

“You’re gonna see bunting early on, moving guys over, getting them in,” Jeter said. “Whether you’re on defence or you’re on offence, you stress the importance of the lead off hitter. On defence, you gotta get the lead off hitter out; offensively any way possible you gotta get the lead off guy on, because it can change the complexion of the game.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

7:05 p.m. - ‘This year has been so magical’: Former Blue Jays World Series champion

Rob Butler, the only Canadian player to ever win a World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays, spoke with CP24 about how much excitement he’s feeling ahead of Game 7.

“As a fan, I’m freaking out,” Butler said. “I’ve been watching the Blue Jays since I was seven years old. But something about this year has been so magical with the way they’ve come back from the last few years of struggling a little bit, and it’s been like this underdog team has come out of nowhere that nobody believed would ever be in this position that they’re in, and they are just so much proving everybody wrong.”

“I know it’s gonna be exciting for everybody. You know, that moment there with Rod Black that I had (when we won the World Series in 1993), I hope the Blue Jays get to celebrate like that this year, because it is an incredible moment, something I’ve never forgotten. And feeling that right now is giving me goosebumps again... it is so special for Canada and for the Toronto Blue Jays, I hope they do pull it off.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

6:55 p.m. - Bieber needs to deliver a solid Game 7 performance

Shane Bieber, the Blue Jays’ big trade-deadline acquisition, takes the mound tonight in a head-to-head battle against the Mariners’ George Kirby. It’s a rematch of Game 3 — a game in which Bieber got the best of Seattle.

For the most part, Bieber has been very solid as a Blue Jay, despite a slight bump in the road in Game 3 of the ALDS against the Yankees. Bieber has all the experience and pedigree you could want in a starter taking the ball in such a high-leverage game. This is exactly how the Blue Jays brass envisioned things when acquiring the big righty, and as Jays fans, all we can do is hope we see the same A-game Bieber we watched in Game 3 of this series.

- Scott Belford, host of ‘The Walk Off’ Toronto Blue Jays podcast and guest contributor

6:14 p.m. - Blue Jays players participate in batting practice

6:10 p.m. - Jays fans should savour tonight’s game

It all comes down to tonight for the Toronto Blue Jays as they host Game 7 of the winner-takes-all ALCS against the Seattle Mariners at Rogers Centre. This is only the second Game 7 in Blue Jays franchise history, and many fans weren’t even alive the last time they did it in 1985 — and those who were had much thicker hair.

This is what sports fans live for: the chance to see their team go to the championship. Blue Jays fans across the country can almost touch the World Series — it’s just one win away. Savouring this moment is the key to enjoying tonight’s pivotal game. Some of us may never have this chance again.

• Toronto Blue Jays fans say ALCS Game 7 win would be a Canadian heritage moment

- Scott Belford, host of ‘The Walk Off’ Toronto Blue Jays podcast and guest contributor

6:06 p.m. - Should the Mariners pitch around Vlad?

Ryan Dempster, former World Series champion with the Boston Red Sox in 2013, said the Mariners will have to be careful if they decide to pitch around Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

“I don’t love pitching around guys in the postseason because you’re putting runners on base and runs are so hard to come by, but you really have to bear down, like, where’s my miss,” Dempster said on the MLB Network show Intentional Talks. “If I’m throwing cutters, I’m missing away off the plate, I can’t miss over the plate with him on breaking balls. He just annihilates them. So you have to be confident, know you trust your stuff out there, but you have to execute.”

“This dude’s a star who is starring right now. It is go time, and he has shown up in full force. So, if he can burn me, I’m putting him on and dealing with the next guy and taking my chances.”

Kevin Miller, who also won a World Series with the Red Sox in 2004 and previously played for the Toronto Blue Jays for nearly a decade, disagreed with Dempster.

“I’m not putting him on, okay?,” Miller countered. “I’m gonna play baseball period. Our job is to get guys out ahead of him so his damage isn’t magnificent. If the situation comes up, like Ryan said, yeah, you have to be very careful... You saw Vlad last night. Get that fastball, and he tried to hit it out of the stadium and fouled it back. So... just locate.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

5:52 p.m. - Field level ahead of Game 7

5:31 p.m. - Guerrero Jr. sits among players with the highest OPS in a single postseason

So far this postseason, Guerrero Jr. has achieved a 1.532 OPS (on-base plus slugging). That is the fourth highest OPS in a single postseason, sitting the first baseman below Manny Ramirez, Barry Bonds, and Carlos Beltran.

Vladdy has a chance to climb that list and grow his OPS tonight in Game 7 and over the course of the World Series if the Blue Jays advance.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

5:30 p.m. - Start times revealed for the World Series

Regardless of which team advances to the World Series tonight, MLB has announced that the start time for every game in the best-of-seven series will start at 8 p.m. ET.

Should the Blue Jays win, they get home field advantage, meaning the first two games will be played in Toronto, games three and four will be played in Los Angeles, and if necessary, game five will also be played in LA, while games six and seven would head back to Toronto.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

5:20 p.m. - Vladdy dons an Auston Matthews jersey as Blue Jays players arrive at Rogers Centre

5:18 p.m. - Metrolinx adding extra trains

Metrolinx says it is adding extra, late night GO train service to allow customers more options to get home following Game 7.

An extra train to Kitchener GO will leave at 12:35 a.m., an additional Barrie bound train will depart for Allandale GO at 12:30 a.m., and an extra Lakeshore West train will leave at 12:47 a.m. and make all stops to West Harbour GO.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

5:14 p.m. - Fans have started lining up outside Rogers Centre

Fans are lining up outside Rogers Centre hours before the game is set to begin. There is a mix of excitement and stress among those we spoke to.

- Melissa Duggan, CP24 video journalist

5:03 p.m. - Status update on Bichette

Schneider also provided an update on Bo Bichette’s status, who has missed out on playing in the ALDS and ALCS after suffering a knee sprain last month.

“His progress is kind of just where he feels with his swing and how much more comfortable he feels kind of letting it rip,” Schneider told reporters. “I think the base running and the defence is something hopefully we can advance and we can check those boxes in the next few days. He’s done some some light stuff, but hasn’t been like full go at short and not back on the bases yet, but the running has picked up in the outfield just in terms of the intensity and the length of it.

”We’ll see how he goes over the next couple days and hopefully we can stick around long enough and he can get back to us."

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:58 p.m. - Pitching strategy for Game 7

Schneider previously said that everyone would be available out of the bullpen for Game 6 and 7 and pointed to the fact that both Gausman and Scherzer experienced doing so in a winner-take-all postseason game in 2021.

“I think the fact that they’ve done it is important,” he remarked. “I think the fact that they’re veteran guys is important too. Again, it’s not set in stone where we may use either one of them, but I think knowing that they’re going to be mentally and physically ready if we do call on them is very comforting.”

“That’s the beauty and the angst of Game 7. You’re looking for any opportunity, really, and you have to be ready for everyone... you’re trying to capitalize as much as you can in any situation that you get some traffic, or any situation you can put a good swing on a mistake. I think that trying not to manage based on what they’re (the Seattle Mariners) doing, trying to stay present in the moment with what we need to do... We need to score. We need to be who we are offensively, and hopefully set the tone to where we can do what we want pitching wise.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:54 p.m. - Schneider on what it means to play in the postseason in Toronto

Schneider said heading into Game 7 comes with a “pretty special feeling” because of the fans and the city, and bringing in former Jays players to throw the ceremonial first pitch increases the feeling.

“They all have done a really good job, combined velocity of about 200 I feel like. They’re all throwing the hell out of the ball,” Schneider remarked about the first pitches. “I think it’s cool for the fans to kind of see guys that have been here, most recently in this spot, in this postseason atmosphere.”

“I think it’s cool that everyone is kind of grasping on to and supporting this group and understanding what it means to play in the postseason here in Toronto, it’s a pretty special feeling.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:50 p.m. - Game 7 is different than Game 6: Schneider

Blue Jays manager John Schneider said there’s a different energy to Game 7 than Game 6, but that he still expects the same from his players.

“It’s a little bit different, but it doesn’t change what we have to do,” Schneider said. “But, it’s a little bit different than it was yesterday. I was talking about that earlier with some guys. You have to come out and play your game. I think the team that can do that the quickest, probably gets off to a good start. But yeah, it’s a little bit different, for sure, knowing that you have to win this game.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:33 p.m. - Ticketing services return to normal

In an update to an earlier post, the Toronto Blue Jays say the global AWS outage affecting Ticketmaster and Blue Jays ticket management is “being resolved and the system is returning to normal.”

“If you continue to experience challenges, additional Blue Jays staff will be at the gates to support ticket management.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:08 p.m. - ‘I want this just as bad as everybody else’

Springer told reporters that despite having played in and winning a World Series before, he still wants to win another one just as bad as the players who haven’t yet.

“For me, it’s about doing anything I can to help anybody,” he said. “I want this just as bad as everybody else wants it. I know our team wants it for the city, the fans, all across from east to west. So anything I can do to help somebody, I will, whether that’s sit down and have a good conversation or whatnot, I think it’s fun.”

“And it’s not about me, you know, it’s about the guys. And I want it just as bad as everybody else does in that locker room, even if I’ve already played in these games before.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:07 p.m. - Communication and experience help the team: Springer

When asked about the experience of the older Blue Jays players like himself, Kevin Gausman, and Max Scherzer, Springer said their time in the big leagues has aided them in communicating.

“When you talk to Trey Yesavage, it’s really funny. The dude is 22 or 23 years old, which is hilarious, and you see the way he performs, and it’s so poised, it’s impressive. But I just think for us, kind of as an older group, you’ve been through a lot, and Max has been through a lot. So has Chris (Bassitt) and Gausy and a lot of guys. So, I just think being able to communicate with guys what you’ve been through, experience wise, whether it’s on the field, off the field, you know that it can help somebody.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

4:03 p.m. - ‘I don’t think anybody really cares’: Springer on playing injured

George Springer told reporters that “nobody” is playing 100 per cent, so he’s just going to try and perform no matter how his knee feels after taking a pitch to it in Game 5.

“You just have to understand and kind of accept that nobody on the field is playing 100 per cent,” Springer said. “It’s not just you. At the end of the day, I don’t really think anybody cares. If you’re out there, you’re expected to play, and you’re expected to perform... I have a job to do, so I expect to go do it. It doesn’t really matter how I feel.”

“I’m gonna do my best to just go out there and play to the best of my ability... I got hit in the kneecap. It’s not ideal, but at this point I’m gonna play.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

3:55 p.m. - Seattle Mariners players arrive at Rogers Centre

3:53 p.m. - Gausman threatens to throw gum again

After previously threatening to throw gum at anyone who wasn’t standing in Game 6, Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman is renewing those threats, writing on X, “I have more gum ready for those that choose to not stand! #TryAndFindOut.”

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

3:46 p.m. - Blue Jays announce starting lineup for Game 7

The Jays are sticking with the same lineup they used in Game 5 and 6 for the pivotal Game 7.

Nathan Lukes, Daulton Varsho, and Addison Barger will remain in their positions in the outfield, while Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez, and Isiah Kiner-Falefa will man the bases, Alejandro Kirk will stay behind the plate, and George Springer is the designated hitter.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

3:18 p.m. - ‘It’s time to get another one,’ Joe Carter tells CP24

Joe Carter, the Blue Jay icon who clinched a World Series win in 1993 with his walk off home run, shared his thoughts on the Jays this postseason—and how is he rooting for the team to go all the way this year.

“I am so excited, I’m nervous because I’m more nervous than when I was playing on the plate in Game 6 of the ’93 World Series, because I can’t do anything about it,” Carter said in an interview with CP24’s Bakari Savage. “But, as an alumni, this is my team and these players, I’ve had a chance to talk to a few of them—I’m excited for them.”

Carter continued to say that Jays fans “deserve” this win, as it has been 33 years since they made it to the World Series. “I love talking about the ’93 World Series championship, but it’s time to get another one,” Carter said.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. joined the ranks of Carter and Jose Bautista’s postseason greatness after hitting his sixth home run on Monday night, tying him with the two players for the most postseason homers in Blue Jays history.

- Alex Arsenych, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

3:08 p.m. - Blue Jays have a chance to join a very small club

According to Major League Baseball, only three teams have lost the first two games at home and then gone on to win the best-of-seven series.

If the Jays win Game 7 tonight, they will become just the fourth team to do so out of 29 series and the first team to do it in the ALCS.

- Laura Sebben, CTVNewsToronto.ca journalist

2:28 p.m. - Kevin Pillar weighs in on pitching plan: ‘Use your eyeballs’

Former Blue Jay Kevin Pillar appeared on MLB Network Monday to talk about Toronto’s pitching plan, and was blunt about how he thinks the team should approach Game 7.

“I don’t think you map it out, I think you let Shane Bieber go out there and you use your eyeballs,” Pillar told host Brian Kenny.

“I’ve learned to embrace the numbers, but I think you just gotta watch what Shane Bieber’s able to do...He also knows, in a Game 7, it’s all hands on deck.

“Max Scherzer’s going to be available. Kevin Gausman’s most likely going to be available. So I think you just go out there, pitch by pitch, inning by inning, and see what Shane Bieber’s can give you.”

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

2:19 p.m. - Jays say Ticketmaster is experiencing ‘issues’ due to Amazon AWS outage

The Toronto Blue Jays say the Amazon Web Services outage has caused “ticket management issues” for Ticketmaster.

“We are actively working with both groups to resolve the issue as soon as possible and will share an update in the coming hours,” the club said in a post on X.

In the meantime, the Jays asked fans to check back soon for the latest updates and to “hold off managing your tickets” as the issue is addressed.

The outage knocked out thousands of websites as well as some of the world’s most popular apps on Monday.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

1:33 p.m. - ‘Everybody’s gotta have their spikes on from the first pitch’

Joel Sherman, a baseball columnist for the New York Post, also spoke with MLB Network’s Brian Kenny on Monday about which pitching staff is in better shape for Game 7.

Sherman admitted that he was “surprised” that there appeared to be little to no action from either side’s bullpen in the early innings of Game 6.

“Yesterday, it didn’t feel like giant urgency in those first five innings by either side, especially for the Blue Jays , with the game on the line,” Sherman said, pointing to Trey Yesavage’s back-to-back one out, bases-loaded situations.

“Tonight, everybody’s gotta have their spikes on from the first pitch of the game, because, you know you just can’t let it ever get away. You’ve got to stabilize the game. So, I think there has to be a lot more urgency tonight, to me, on both sides than there was last night.”

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

12:30 p.m. - Toronto Blue Jays World Series tickets go on sale Tuesday

If Toronto beats the Seattle Mariners tonight, tickets to any World Series home games will go on sale at 10 a.m. Tuesday, the team has announced.

Because Toronto holds a higher regular season record over their potential opponent, the Los Angeles Dodgers (94-68 vs. 93-69), the Jays will get home field advantage and Rogers Centre will play host to Games 1, 2, as well as 6 and 7, if necessary.

Game 1 is set for this Friday.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

11:26 a.m. - Toronto bench coach Don Mattingly could see first World Series ever

Before he was the Toronto Blue Jays bench coach, Don Mattingly played out his entire 13 seasons in the majors with the New York Yankees.

In 1995 in Game 5 of the ALDS, Mattingly hit a go ahead, two-run double against none other than the Seattle Mariners. But Seattle would rally and come back to win in the 11th inning.

That game would be Mattingly’s last. He went unsigned in 1996, and hung up his cleats in 1997.

Now, with a win Monday night, he’ll have a chance to exorcise those demons once and for all.

“If the Jays win, Donnie Baseball goes to the World Series for the first time as a player, coach, or manager,” MLB Network broadcaster Jon Morosi wrote in a post on X Monday.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

11:15 a.m. - Resale tickets still available for Game 7

While tickets to ALCS Game 7 sold out quickly after they went on sale earlier this month, some resale tickets are still available.

At time of writing, resale tickets in the middle of the 500 Level are selling for $341 (including taxes and fees) each on Ticketmaster.

Similar tickets are on sale on Stubhub for $372.

Tickets for all potential ALCS home games at Rogers Centre went on sale after the Jays eliminated the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series. However, some Jays fans complained that glitches and resellers prevented them from getting passes in Toronto.

• READ MORE: ‘How are the tickets already sold?’: Some Blue Jays fans voice frustration after ALCS tickets sell out fast

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

10:50 a.m. - MPPs cheer on Jays

The legislatures kicks off the fall session with a collective “Go Jays Go” chant in support of the Blue Jays.

- Joshua Freeman, CP24.com Digital Journalist

10:20 a.m. - City hosting Toronto Blue Jays Game 7 viewing party

The City of Toronto will host a free viewing party of tonight’s game at David Pecaut Square, which is south of Adelaide Street West and west of University Avenue.

“Join us today at 8 p.m. there’ll be a DJ, prizes and trivia and of course a big screen to watch the game,” the city said in a post on X.

Limited seating is available, but guests are welcome to bring their own chairs. For more information, click here.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

10:06 a.m. - The ‘safe money’ would be on Toronto: DeRosa

Former Toronto Blue Jay Mark DeRosa and the MLB Network panel discussed their predictions for Game 7 on Monday.

While DeRosa admitted that the “worst thing” he and other analysts do is predict the outcome of any game, he said the “safe money” would be on Toronto to win at home.

“But I can easily see George Kirby handing it off to the bullpen,” he said.

The Toronto Blue Jays are currently -130 favourites on FanDuel to win Game 7.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist

10:00 a.m. - Shane Bieber gets the start for Toronto

Shane Bieber will head to the mound for the Jays. The Mariners will send out George Kirby for a rematch of Game 3.

Bieber allowed two runs over six innings with eight strikeouts in that 13-4 win for the Blue Jays. Kirby gave up three home runs and eight runs over four frames.

- Phil Tsekouras, CTVNewsToronto.ca Digital Journalist