The Toronto Blue Jays have advanced to the ALCS for the first time since 2016, after beating the New York Yankees 3-1 in their division series, thanks to a clinching 5-2 win on Wednesday night. To say the vibes are high is an understatement.
After taking care of the Yankees in their first two games in Toronto, the Blue Jays got back to their winning ways in Game 4. It was behind manager John Schneider’s trust in his pitching staff, opting for a bullpen game where eight Jays pitchers took to the mound, ultimately limiting the former AL Champions to just six hits.
Now, the Blue Jays will wait to face the winner of Friday’s Game 5 between the Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners. Ultimately, whoever comes out of the ALCS will advance to the World Series.
For now, there’s plenty to be proud of for the Jays fanbase, as they celebrate alongside a passionate team that’s taking over the Internet as they bask in their demanding win over their division rival Yankees. From clubhouse celebrations, to Leafs fans watching inside Scotiabank Arena, this team is making its mark on both the city and country, as fans also pour online to show their love.
Among the celebration highlights, of course, is Vladimir Guerrero Jr., whose hatred of the Yankees was made well known ahead of the series. With the division win under his belt, he got to celebrate with another well-known Yankee hater in Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz. Together, they made a play on former Yankees broadcaster John Sterling’s signature call, “THEEEEEE Yankees win!”
What made it sweeter was that the viral moment on FS1 was right in front of Yankee greats Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez.
The TNT broadcast also had their fun, with Red Sox villain Pedro Martinez making sure the Yankees’ fanbase gets his message:
Overall, it’s been an incredible series for Guerrero Jr., from this Game 3 dive to home plate, to the absolute bomb of a grand slam he hit in Game 2, after also going yard in Game 1.
Another highlight that Jays fans seemed to love was Schneider’s short, but expressive, speech just before the team doused themselves in champagne.
Before the Jays celebrated, all eyes were on the team. That includes fans who were at the Toronto Maple Leafs’ season opener on Thursday night, as parts of the game, including its final moments, were broadcasted on the jumbotron. That meant fans stayed and watched even after the Leafs took care of the Montreal Canadiens with a 5-2 win of their own.
It’s safe to think that more Canadian Heritage Moments are on the way, especially with the confidence this team is displaying.
For many, what makes it even sweeter, is that it came against the Yankees.
The Blue Jays will now get some much needed rest, as they get set to take on their next opponent on Sunday, Oct. 12.