Mariners Triumph as Bryce Miller Shines in ALCS Game 1
TORONTO – In an impressive display of resilience, the Seattle Mariners secured a 3–1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS) on October 14, 2023. This win was particularly significant as it came after the Mariners were forced to rely on rookie pitcher Bryce Miller to take the mound on just three days’ rest, a first in his professional career.
The Mariners had depleted their bullpen in a tense win that advanced them to the ALCS, compelling them to make what many considered a risky decision. Historically, pitchers on three days’ rest have faced challenges, entering this game with a record of 54–73 (.425) in the wild card era. Given that modern baseball typically favors five days of rest for starters, Miller’s performance became even more remarkable.
Miller faced immediate adversity when George Springer hit a home run on his first pitch, but thanks to the leadership of catcher Cal Raleigh, he quickly regained his composure. Raleigh, displaying his characteristic calmness under pressure, approached Miller during a moment of chaos, providing a reassuring presence on the mound. This pivotal exchange helped Miller settle down, allowing him to pitch six innings while surrendering just one run.
Matt Brash, a fellow Mariners pitcher, emphasized the significance of Miller’s performance, stating, “Getting those six innings from Bryce is series-changing. It was huge.” Miller became the first pitcher since Patrick Corbin in the 2019 World Series to complete six innings on short rest, a feat that underscores his resilience and skill.
Efficient Pitching and Strategic Decisions
The Mariners’ pitching strategy proved effective, as they threw first-pitch strikes to 78% of batters faced, a significant factor in their success. Miller’s ability to pitch efficiently—using only 100 pitches to achieve 27 outs—set a postseason record for efficiency on the road, an achievement not seen since the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2018.
Miller’s success can also be attributed to adjustments made during his time on the injured list due to a painful bone spur. During rehabilitation, he corrected a pitching flaw that had previously allowed opponents to predict his pitches. This adjustment involved synchronizing his hand movements with his leg kick, a technique that has since improved his performance dramatically, lowering his earned run average (ERA) to 2.61 in the postseason.
Despite the initial setback from Springer’s home run, Miller maintained his focus, demonstrating remarkable composure under pressure. The Mariners’ pitching coach, Pete Woodworth, praised Miller’s ability to adapt quickly to changes, stating, “When you suggest a change, he makes adjustments very quickly.”
Cal Raleigh’s Impact on the Game
Raleigh not only played a crucial role in stabilizing Miller but also contributed offensively, hitting a game-tying home run in the fifth inning. This home run marked his 62nd of the season and placed him in elite company alongside legends Babe Ruth and Aaron Judge, as one of the few players to hit multiple postseason home runs after a 60-plus regular season.
In a strategic move, Raleigh advised against using closer Andrés Muñoz‘s slider against Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a decision that showcased his deep understanding of the game. Following Raleigh’s input, Muñoz effectively retired Guerrero with a groundout, sealing the Mariners’ victory.
Following the game, Miller expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, describing his performance as a culmination of the team’s efforts. “I was getting ahead, attacking. And it’s a recipe for success,” he stated, highlighting the Mariners’ collective approach to pitching.
The Mariners’ triumph in Game 1 serves as a testament to their determination and strategic acumen. After a grueling five-hour game the previous night, along with a lengthy travel delay, they overcame the odds to take an early lead in the ALCS. With their pitchers demonstrating both skill and resilience, the Mariners are poised to make a significant impact in this postseason.
