Blue Jays Vs. Mariners: Game 5 Pitchers!

Alright baseball fanatics, let's dive deep into what everyone's been waiting for – the potential Game 5 showdown between our beloved Blue Jays and the Seattle Mariners! While a Game 5 didn't actually happen in the 2022 AL Wild Card Series (Seattle swept Toronto in two games), let’s pretend it did, and break down who would have been the likely candidates to toe the rubber in what would've been a nail-biting, season-defining game. This is where pitching strategies, matchups, and a little bit of manager guesswork all come into play. So, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, and let's get into it!

Toronto Blue Jays: Potential Game 5 Starter

If the series had stretched to a Game 5, all eyes would have been on the Blue Jays' pitching decision. In a high-stakes game like this, experience and composure are key. Let's consider a likely option – Kevin Gausman. Gausman, with his nasty splitter and proven track record, would have been a strong contender to take the mound for the Blue Jays.

Gausman brings a veteran presence to the team, which is crucial in pressure situations like a Game 5. His ability to keep hitters off balance with his splitter and locate his fastball effectively makes him a tough matchup for any lineup. Furthermore, his experience in previous playoff appearances would be invaluable. The Blue Jays would need a pitcher who won't get rattled by the intensity of the game, and Gausman definitely fits that bill.

Beyond his individual skills, Gausman's preparation and mindset are equally important. He is known for his meticulous study of opposing hitters and his dedication to refining his craft. Before each start, Gausman spends hours analyzing video footage and scouting reports to identify weaknesses in the opposing lineup. He works closely with the Blue Jays' coaching staff to develop a game plan that exploits those weaknesses and maximizes his strengths. In a crucial Game 5 scenario, this level of preparation would give the Blue Jays a significant advantage.

However, the decision wouldn't be solely based on past performance. The Blue Jays' management team would also consider Gausman's recent form, any potential injuries, and how he matches up against the Mariners' hitters. If Gausman had shown signs of fatigue or struggled in his previous outings, the team might consider an alternative option. Ultimately, the choice would come down to a combination of factors, all aimed at giving the Blue Jays the best chance of winning.

Another, albeit less likely, possibility could have been someone like Jose Berrios, depending on how he was used earlier in the series. While Berrios has the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter, his consistency can sometimes be a question mark. In a win-or-go-home game, the Blue Jays might lean towards the more reliable Gausman. However, if Berrios had pitched well in a previous game, the team might have confidence in him to deliver in Game 5.

The Blue Jays' pitching strategy would also depend on the availability of their bullpen. If key relievers were fatigued or unavailable due to overuse in previous games, the starting pitcher would need to go deeper into the game. This would put even more pressure on Gausman or Berrios to perform at their best. The Blue Jays' coaching staff would carefully monitor the bullpen's workload throughout the series and adjust their pitching plans accordingly. Ultimately, the goal would be to have a fresh and effective bullpen ready to support the starting pitcher in the later innings.

Seattle Mariners: Potential Game 5 Starter

Turning our attention to the Seattle Mariners, the obvious choice for a hypothetical Game 5 starter would likely have been Logan Gilbert. Gilbert established himself as a dependable and talented young pitcher.

Gilbert possesses a great mix of pitches and has shown the ability to perform under pressure. His poise and command on the mound make him a reliable option in crucial situations. The Mariners would be looking for a pitcher who can keep the Blue Jays' offense in check and give their team a chance to win. Gilbert's consistency throughout the season makes him a strong candidate to take on that role.

Similar to the Blue Jays, the Mariners' decision would also be influenced by factors beyond Gilbert's individual performance. The team would consider his recent form, any potential injuries, and how he matches up against the Blue Jays' hitters. If Gilbert had struggled in his previous outings, the Mariners might explore alternative options. However, given his track record and the importance of the game, Gilbert would likely be the frontrunner.

Another pitcher who could have been in the mix is George Kirby. Kirby's stuff is electric, and he's shown flashes of brilliance. However, his relative inexperience might make the Mariners hesitant to hand him the ball in such a crucial game. Despite his talent, Kirby is still developing as a pitcher, and the pressure of a Game 5 could be overwhelming. The Mariners' coaching staff would need to carefully weigh the risks and rewards of starting Kirby in such a high-stakes situation.

The Mariners' pitching strategy would also depend on the performance of their bullpen. If key relievers were fatigued or unavailable, the starting pitcher would need to pitch deeper into the game. This would put additional pressure on Gilbert or Kirby to perform at their best. The Mariners' coaching staff would closely monitor the bullpen's workload throughout the series and adjust their pitching plans accordingly. The goal would be to have a fresh and effective bullpen ready to support the starting pitcher in the later innings.

Key Matchups and Factors to Watch

Alright guys, let's break down some crucial matchups and factors that would heavily influence a hypothetical Game 5.

• Gausman's Splitter vs. Mariners' Left-Handed Hitters: If Gausman got the nod for the Blue Jays, his splitter would be a major weapon against the Mariners' lefties. How well they adjust to that pitch could dictate the flow of the game.
• Gilbert's Command vs. Blue Jays' Power: Gilbert's ability to command the strike zone would be tested against the Blue Jays' powerful lineup. If he leaves pitches over the plate, Toronto's hitters are sure to make him pay.
• Bullpen Management: In a high-pressure game, the effectiveness of both teams' bullpens would be critical. Which manager can make the right calls and get the most out of their relief pitchers?
• Early Offense: Getting an early lead can significantly shift the momentum in a playoff game. Which team can jump out to an early advantage and put pressure on the opposing starter?
• Defense: Tight, error-free defense is crucial in playoff baseball. A costly error can open the door for the opposing team and change the entire complexion of the game.

Predicting the Outcome (Hypothetically!)

Okay, so if this actually happened, who would win? It's tough to say! Both teams are incredibly talented, and a Game 5 would be an absolute battle. The Blue Jays, playing at home, would have a slight advantage. However, the Mariners are a resilient team, and they wouldn't back down from the challenge. It would likely come down to which team can execute better in key moments and which pitcher can keep their composure under pressure.

Ultimately, the hypothetical Game 5 between the Blue Jays and the Mariners would be a must-watch event for baseball fans. The pitching matchups, the strategic decisions, and the sheer intensity of the game would make it a memorable experience. While we can only speculate about what might have happened, it's fun to imagine the possibilities and analyze the factors that could have influenced the outcome. Baseball is a game of strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck, and a Game 5 would be the ultimate test of all three.

Final Thoughts

While this Game 5 never actually occurred, breaking down the potential pitching matchups and strategic elements offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of playoff baseball. Whether it's Gausman's splitter, Gilbert's command, or the crucial decisions made by the managers, every detail matters in a high-stakes game. So, let's keep the passion for baseball alive and look forward to the next thrilling chapter in the Blue Jays' and Mariners' rivalry!