Seattle prepares for a high-stakes Game 3 of the ALCS against Toronto, featuring a compelling pitching duel between the Mariners’ George Kirby and the Blue Jays’ Shane Bieber, while fans eagerly anticipate the potential return of star Bryan Woo from injury later in the series.
The American League Championship Series shifts to Seattle for a pivotal Game 3 on Wednesday, with the Toronto Blue Jays facing a daunting 2-0 deficit against the Seattle Mariners. The spotlight will undoubtedly be on the mound, as Seattle’s right-hander George Kirby prepares to duel Toronto’s former AL Cy Young Award winner, Shane Bieber.
For Mariners fans, this isn’t just another postseason game; it’s a long-awaited homecoming. T-Mobile Park is expected to be electric, marking the franchise’s first ALCS appearance at home in nearly a quarter-century. This fervent atmosphere will serve as the backdrop for a critical matchup that could either push Seattle to the brink of the World Series or give Toronto a desperately needed lifeline.
George Kirby’s Crucial Home Start
George Kirby, in his fourth season with Seattle, is tasked with maintaining the Mariners’ postseason momentum. His recent performances have been solid, showcasing his ability to manage high-pressure situations. In Game 5 of the Division Series against Detroit, Kirby delivered a strong outing, striking out six and allowing just one run and three hits across five innings. He also started the series opener against the Tigers, giving up two runs and six hits over five innings.
During the regular season, Kirby posted a 10-8 record with a 4.21 ERA through 23 starts. Interestingly, he did not face the Blue Jays this year, adding an element of unpredictability to this crucial matchup. His command and ability to get quick outs will be vital in quieting a desperate Toronto lineup and harnessing the energy of the home crowd.
Shane Bieber’s Road to Redemption
Across the diamond, Shane Bieber faces an immense challenge. Acquired by the Blue Jays in a deadline trade from Cleveland on July 31, Bieber is still finding his footing after returning from Tommy John surgery performed in April 2024. He brings a prestigious resume, including the 2020 AL Cy Young Award, but his recent outing in the ALDS against the Yankees was far from his best. In that Game 3, he surrendered three runs (two earned) and five hits in just 2 2/3 innings, contributing to a 9-6 loss for Toronto.
Despite the recent struggles and ongoing adjustments post-surgery, Bieber remains confident, stating he loves pitching in “hostile environments.” As reported by Associated Press, this mindset is crucial for a pitcher facing a raucous Seattle crowd with his team’s back against the wall. His regular season with Toronto saw him go 4-2 with a 3.57 ERA in seven starts, though he, like Kirby, has not faced the Mariners this season.
Bieber’s Pitch Mix Under the Microscope
Fans and analysts have keenly observed Bieber’s pitch selection, particularly his “reverse splits” where he’s unexpectedly struggled against right-handed batters recently. In the regular season, righties hit .297 against him, compared to .156 for lefties. His ALDS strategy against the Yankees involved a heavy slider usage against right-handers, shifting from his usual mix. Against Seattle’s “extremely balanced” lineup, the Blue Jays’ strategy for Bieber’s pitch mix—whether to lean on the changeup or the curveball—will be a critical storyline. Blue Jays manager John Schneider has expressed full trust in Bieber, highlighting his ability to handle big moments, a sentiment shared by many since his acquisition, as detailed in an MLB.com report.
Bryan Woo’s Highly Anticipated Return
Adding another layer of intrigue to the Mariners’ pitching staff is the potential return of young star Bryan Woo. Woo has been sidelined since September 19 due to pectoral inflammation, a period that has tested the Mariners’ depth. However, there’s growing optimism for his return. The 2025 All-Star threw a live batting practice session before Monday’s Game 2 in Toronto, drawing positive feedback.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson noted that the session “went really well today,” particularly praising Woo’s velo and secondary pitches. “His progression has been pretty steady, pretty on the mark,” Wilson commented to the Associated Press. “If he comes back tomorrow feeling better, I think we’re on a good path to seeing him later in the series.” Woo’s potential availability for a Game 5 start on Friday is a significant boost for Seattle, especially considering his stellar regular season where he went 15-7 with a 2.94 ERA and 198 strikeouts across 186 2/3 innings.
Mariners’ Pitching Strategy and Fan Hopes
The Mariners are set to send Luis Castillo to the mound for Game 4 on Thursday, establishing a formidable rotation for the upcoming home stands. The potential return of Woo for a crucial Game 5 underscores Seattle’s depth and strategic flexibility as they aim to clinch the ALCS at home.
The fan community in Seattle is buzzing with anticipation. The prospect of seeing Kirby deliver a strong Game 3 performance, followed by Castillo in Game 4, and potentially Woo in Game 5, has ignited hopes for a World Series berth. The energy at T-Mobile Park will be a factor, with fans eager to push their team toward victory and a deeper postseason run.
Game 3 is not just a pitching duel; it’s a collision of narratives – a team fighting for survival, a city craving a championship, and pitchers each looking to leave their indelible mark on postseason history.
