Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman remains unfazed by the prospect of facing the well-financed Los Angeles Dodgers in the upcoming World Series.
Following Toronto’s triumphant 4-3 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, Gausman, drenched in beer, confidently remarked, “We’ve got a lot of guys making a lot of money, too.”
Expressing anticipation for the matchup, Gausman acknowledged, “It’s two really good teams. It’s going to be some really good baseball. A lot of big names, obviously.”
The Blue Jays boast significant salaries as well, with Gausman earning $23 million annually, alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ($28 million), George Springer ($25 million), and Chris Bassitt ($22 million), all surpassing the $20 million mark.
Furthermore, six other Blue Jays players command salaries exceeding $10 million annually, led by Jose Berrios’ $19 million paycheck.
With an opening-day payroll of $239,242,531, Toronto ranked fifth in baseball, trailing the Dodgers, who held the second position behind the New York Mets with a payroll of $319,537,290.
Despite the notable salaries on the Blue Jays roster, the team has not clinched any postseason titles since their consecutive World Series triumphs in 1992 and 1993. The challenge of facing the star-studded Dodgers, the defending champions, lies ahead.
“To get to where you want to go, you’ve got to beat the best,” emphasized Blue Jays manager John Schneider, acknowledging the formidable opponent. The Dodgers, who had a winning record against Toronto in the regular season, pose a significant hurdle.
Benefiting from home-field advantage due to their superior regular-season record, the Blue Jays will commence the World Series at home on Friday night against the Dodgers, having secured 94 wins compared to the Dodgers’ 93.
“They’re a powerhouse,” acknowledged Toronto outfielder Nathan Lukes, recognizing the Dodgers’ formidable reputation. However, he emphasized that the Blue Jays are undaunted by the challenge.
Despite advancing in the playoffs without shortstop Bo Bichette, who has been sidelined due to injury since September, the Blue Jays remain optimistic about his return for the World Series.
“I’ll be ready,” assured Bichette, expressing his determination to contribute to the team’s postseason campaign.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the standout performer for Toronto in the ALCS, clinching the MVP title, expressed eagerness for the upcoming clash with the Dodgers.
“I know they have great players,” Guerrero stated, emphasizing the importance of on-field performance in the imminent series.
Bo Bichette says he’ll be ready to go for the World Series, but finding a spot for
