The Toronto Blue Jays have a chance to do something only two MLB teams have ever done, when they host the Texas Rangers on Wednesday for Game 5 of their American League Division Series. Toronto forced a deciding game despite losing the first two games of the series at home. Only the San Francisco Giants in 2012 and the New York Yankees in 2001 have won a five-game series after losing the first two at home.
The Blue Jays dug theirselves a major hole, but staved off elimination twice in Texas to send the series back to Toronto. The last time the two teams squared off at the Rogers Centre, the game went 14 innings in what may be the best game of the MLB postseason thus far. Cole Hamels and Marcus Stroman started that game, and the two will be back on the mound for Game 5.
Hamels will get the start after coming to Texas in a trade with Philadelphia in July. This was exactly the type of game he was acquired for. Toronto acquired its own ace at the deadline, but David Price will not start Game 5 after pitching in relief in Game 4. Instead, the Blue Jays will turn to the 24-year-old Stroman. He made a late season debut due to a spring training knee injury, but pitched extremely well down the stretch. Neither he nor Hamels factored into the decision in Game 2.
The winner of Game 5 will secure the first spot in the American League Championship Series. The Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals will also play a deciding contest on Wednesday. The teams won't have much time to relax with Game 1 of the ALCS set for Friday.
Fox Sports 1 will handle the television coverage, with viewers also having options to watch online. Those with a cable subscription that includes Fox Sports 1 will be able to stream the game live online thanks to Fox Sports Go. You must authenticate a subscription in order to access the online coverage. Subscribers to MLB.TV's postseason package will also be able to watch the game online. Viewers can purchase a postseason subscription for $9.99.
First pitch is scheduled for 4:07 p.m. ET. Here is a complete look at the Game 5 coverage.
ALDS Game 5: Rangers at Blue Jays
Location: Rogers Centre, Toronto
Time: 4:07 p.m. ET
TV: Fox Sports 1
Streaming: Fox Sports GO mobile app; Postseason.tv
Radio: ESPN Radio
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