With that, the American League Championship Series starts with a bang.
George Springer hit the Blue Jays’ first-ever postseason leadoff home run to start Game 1 of the ALCS against the Mariners.
The Blue Jays outfielder took the first pitch from Seattle starter Bryce Miller and sent it to the bullpen in right field, giving Toronto an early 1-0 lead.
The leadoff homer sent the Rogers Center crowd into a frenzy as Springer circled the bases.
The fact that Springer hit the stunner on the first pitch only added to the rarity of the moment, with only two other players hitting leadoff home runs on the first pitch since counting pitches began in 1988. according to The Athletic.
Springer became the second-oldest player in postseason history to hit a leadoff home run at 36, according to Sarah Langs of MLB.
He also passed Yankees great Derek Jeter on the all-time postseason home run list with his 22nd career playoff homer.
He is behind only Bernie Williams (22), Kyle Schwarber (23), Jose Altuve (27) and Manny Ramirez (29).
The moment was made even more unique thanks to Springer wore his custom-made Hartford Whalers batting gloves when he hit the solo shot.
The batting gloves will go to the Hockey Hall of Fame after the Blue Jays’ playoff run is over.
Springer has a special bond with the former NHL franchise, which moved to North Carolina and was renamed the Hurricanes, because he is from New Britain, Conn. came and played college baseball at UConn.
The Blue Jays are looking to make their first trip back to the World Series since 1993 as they look to continue Toronto’s impressive run this season.
The Blue Jays sent the Yankees to the American League Division Series, ending the Bronx Bombers’ onslaught.
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