The Toronto Blue Jays have reignited their postseason hopes. They pulled even in the American League Championship Series after a dominant 8-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 4.
The win changed the dynamics on the field and shifted betting odds in their favor for the first time since Game 1. With Kevin Gausman set to take the mound in Game 5, anticipation is building for this crucial matchup.
This game could set the tone for a potential Game 6 back in Toronto. Fans on both sides are feeling the tension rise.
Blue Jays Regain Betting Edge in ALCS
Toronto’s Game 4 win hit Seattle hard, both emotionally and statistically. For the first time since the opener, the Blue Jays are now favored to advance to the World Series, sitting at -112 on FanDuel while the Mariners are at -104.
That razor-thin margin really shows how close this series has been. Both teams have traded momentum through the first four games, keeping everyone guessing.
Even with the odds now leaning toward Toronto, they’re still slight underdogs for Game 5 at +102. Oddsmakers clearly respect the Mariners, especially with the game in Seattle.
Gausman Returns to the Spotlight
All eyes are on Kevin Gausman as he takes the ball for Toronto in Game 5. In his Game 1 start, the veteran right-hander limited Seattle to just two runs on three hits across 5.2 innings.
His command and knack for keeping hitters off-balance will be crucial as the Blue Jays try to take control of the series. Gausman’s calm presence might just make the difference here.
MVP Race Heats Up
October baseball isn’t just about wins—it’s about those performances that stick in your memory. After his red-hot stretch in Games 3 and 4, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. now leads the ALCS MVP race at +320.
He’s racked up six hits and four extra-base knocks over those two games, fueling Toronto’s resurgence. Can he keep it going with the pressure mounting?
Guerrero Jr.’s Rivals
Seattle’s Jorge Polanco remains a close challenger at +340, mostly because of his five RBIs in the first two games that set the early tone for the Mariners. Blue Jays shortstop Andres Gimenez has jumped into the conversation too, now at +650 in MVP odds after homering in back-to-back games.
His timely production gives Toronto’s lineup some real depth. It’s been a boost right when they needed it most.
Other Notable MVP Contenders
There are a few more names keeping the MVP race interesting:
- Julio Rodriguez (+650): Brings energy at the plate and in the field for Seattle.
- George Springer (+900): His veteran leadership and knack for clutch hits have lifted Toronto’s spirits.
- Cal Raleigh (+1300): A power threat who can turn a game with one swing.
- Josh Naylor (+2200): Flies a bit under the radar, but he’s got a knack for timely offense.
Looking Ahead to Game 5
The stakes are sky-high as the series heads into Game 5. A win for Toronto would put them just one victory away from the World Series and give them a shot to close it out at home.
If they lose, though, they’ll have to fight for survival and risk elimination in front of their own fans. That’s a tough spot for any team.
Seattle knows protecting their home field is everything right now. Their offense needs to get to Gausman early—something they couldn’t manage in Game 1.
Another strong showing from their bullpen could swing things, especially in what’s shaping up to be a tight battle. There’s just no telling how this one will play out.
The Pivotal Turning Point
Game 5 in a championship series? That’s where everything shifts. With both teams locked at 2-2, every moment gets magnified.
Momentum isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s everything. Each pitch and swing feels heavier, and managers know their choices could tip the scales.
Both clubs sit just two wins away from an American League pennant. That’s a ticket to the World Series, and honestly, you can feel the tension in the air.
The Blue Jays have sparked hope all over Canada. Meanwhile, the Mariners just keep bouncing back, making this ALCS one of the most gripping showdowns we’ve seen this postseason.
Game 5 won’t be short on drama or intensity. If you’re looking for a taste of October greatness, this is probably it.
Here is the source article for this story: Blue Jays favourites to win ALCS after Game 4 win, small underdogs to win Game 5
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