After a thrilling 15-inning win against the Detroit Tigers, the Seattle Mariners secured a spot in the American League Championship Series. Following the victory, Mississauga, Ont., native and Mariners’ first baseman, Josh Naylor, shared his thoughts on the possibility of facing the Toronto Blue Jays in the post-season.
Naylor expressed that playing against the Blue Jays would be just another challenge to overcome but highlighted his excitement at reuniting with former teammates from the Cleveland Guardians organization who now play for Toronto. He mentioned outfielder Myles Straw, relief pitcher Nick Sandlin, and infielders Andres Gimenez and Ernie Clement as players he was looking forward to seeing.
All five former Guardians, including pitcher Shane Bieber, now part of the Blue Jays’ roster, have different paths that led them to Toronto. Clement joined on a minor-league deal, while Gimenez and Sandlin were acquired through trades. Straw was brought in later, and Bieber’s move happened just before the trade deadline.
The camaraderie among the former Guardians has helped create a seamless transition within the Blue Jays’ clubhouse. Bieber mentioned that the presence of familiar faces made the move easier, emphasizing the support and cohesion within the team.
Despite the personnel changes, the Guardians managed to reach this year’s playoffs but were eliminated in the American League Wild Card series. Bieber reflected on the contrasting fortunes of being in the ALCS with the Blue Jays while his former team did not make it.
The Mariners currently lead the ALCS 2-0 after winning the first two games in Toronto. Seattle will host the next games, with a potential Game 7 returning to Toronto. Naylor expressed his joy at reuniting with old friends during the series and cherished the memories and friendships built during their time together.
The series outcome aside, Naylor remains grateful for the moments shared with his former teammates and looks forward to the possibility of progressing towards the World Series with the Blue Jays.