Not the outcome Toronto hoped for, but a Blue Jays season to be proud of nonetheless

It certainly wasn’t the outcome anyone hoped for, but it was a journey Toronto Blue Jays fans can be proud of.

The heartbreaking 5-4 loss against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 of the World Series showcased just what Canada’s team is known for: grit, strength and resilience. 

Saturday’s game was a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement after Bo Bichette’s three-run homer in the third inning that was the first of its kind in a Game 7 since 1967, to relief as the Jays held onto their one-run advantage into the ninth inning.

But the happiness faded and quickly turned into despair as the Dodgers’ Miguel Rojas tied the game and Will Smith homered to take the lead in the 11th inning leading to the team’s second World Series championship in a row.

It wasn’t only the fans who struggled as they witnessed the Dodgers commemorate what could’ve been theirs at the Rogers Centre Saturday night. 

Blue Jays players, too, held back tears as they battled their way through media interviews after team talks which Ernie Clement said included “a lot of hugging.”

He was among the highlights of the night, hitting a milestone most hits in a post-season. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s double play and his dive hit, matched with tears after the game, showed his dedication for the team. And the players portrayed a friendship like no other when the benches cleared and the Blue Jays stormed the field ready to fight after Andrés Giménez was hit by a pitch.

The odds were stacked against the Jays. Yet, time and time again this post-season, players showed up ready to fight. During the regular season, the Blue Jays led MLB with 49 comeback wins — a stat they wore as a badge of honour, a statement of their never-say-die attitude.

Despite this, and to rub even more salt in the wound, Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto took home the World Series MVP title. 

Nonetheless, the support was unwavering and demonstrated a level of unity never before seen.

Truly, what a series it was. 

The team kicked it off with the first pinch hit grand slam in a World Series game and Alejandro Kirk became the first Mexican-born player to hit a home run in the fall classic.

The Dodgers may have won the infamous 18-inning marathon Game 3, but the Toronto Blue Jays players gave it their all. And with a Game 4 win, the team guaranteed at least one more baseball game at home for thousands of ravenous fans.

Game 5 could be known as the Trey Yesavage show. The 22-year-old rookie managed to stack up 12 strikeouts in just over 100 pitches during his Game 5 start at Dodger Stadium.