Blue Jays put fingerprint on American League Championship Series

The Toronto Blue Jays were not even close to postseason contention this season, however, they definitely have put a fingerprint on the American League Championship Series.

The Houston Astros tied the ALCS at one game apiece on Sunday night versus the New York Yankees. The contest definitely had a Blue Jays feel to it as a number of former players played integral roles in the outcome of the game.

The Astros walked it off in dramatic fashion in the 11th inning when Carlos Correa took former Jays hurler J.A. Happ yard over the right-field fence. Happ was the ninth Yankees pitcher of the evening when he came into the contest. The 36-year old has been relegated to bullpen duties following a disappointing season.

Cleanup hitter Edwin Encarnacion also had a tough day at the office striking out three times in five plate appearances. The slugger has struggled in the series failing to record a hit thus far after two contests.

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Gio Urshela also started at third base for the Bronx Bombers and made a dazzling snag at the hot corner earlier in the game. Urshela played 19 games for the Jays in 2018, however, he had a career year this past season with the Yankees hitting 21 bombs.

The Astros postseason contingent is chalked full of former Blue Jays as was evident on Sunday. Relievers Roberto Osuna and Joe Smith both pitched 1.2 innings of no-hit scoreless relief setting the tone for the bullpen.

Pinch hitter Aledmys Diaz worked a walk facing Aroldis Chapman in his only plate appearance of the game. The Astros acquired Diaz in exchange for pitcher Trent Thornton last offseason.

Former Jays farmhand Jake Marisnick also started in the outfield while Lourdes Gurriel Jr‘s. older brother Yuli Gurriel got the nod at first base.

The Astros still had Joe Biagini and the injured Aaron Sanchez in their Blue Jays arsenal who did not see action in the contest. At least we can still see some familiar faces in October even though the Jays arent playing.