UPDATE: The stage is set for an electrifying clash in the AL Championship Series as the Seattle Mariners’ right-hander George Kirby is confirmed to start against the Toronto Blue Jays’ ace Shane Bieber for Game 3 on October 18, 2023, in Seattle.
Kirby, who dazzled in his previous outing, striking out six while allowing just one run and three hits over five innings against Detroit in the division series, is ready to lead his team into a pivotal playoff battle. The Mariners look to capitalize on their home advantage after splitting the first two games of the series.
The matchup is crucial. Kirby, with a record of 10-8 and a 4.21 ERA in the regular season, faces a daunting task against the 2020 AL Cy Young Award winner Bieber, who went 4-2 with a 3.57 ERA in seven starts for Toronto after his acquisition from Cleveland.
In his last outing, Bieber struggled, conceding three runs (two earned) and five hits over 2.2 innings in a 9-6 loss to the Yankees during the division series. He will need to rebound to support the Blue Jays’ playoff hopes as they aim for a win on the road.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson has indicated that Luis Castillo is slated to start Game 4, with Bryan Woo as a potential option for Game 5, should the series extend. Woo, who has been sidelined since September 19 due to pectoral inflammation, threw a successful live batting practice session before Game 2 and is showing promising signs of recovery.
“I thought it went really well today,” Wilson remarked about Woo’s performance. “His progression has been pretty steady, pretty on the mark. If he comes back tomorrow feeling better, I think we’re on a good path to seeing him later in the series.”
This ALCS matchup is not just a game; it’s a battle for playoff survival. The Mariners and Blue Jays are locked in a fierce contest, and both teams are vying for a step closer to the World Series. With the stakes high and the players ready to perform, all eyes are on Seattle as Game 3 approaches.
Mark your calendars for 4:00 PM ET on Wednesday as the Mariners and Blue Jays take the field. Fans are encouraged to tune in for what promises to be an unforgettable playoff showdown. Stay updated as we bring you the latest developments!
