T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the Seattle Mariners on Friday. It's playoff time, and Toronto fans are hoping for another great playoff story. With this "first to win two games" series being played all in Canada, the Jays should have a real good shot here in this round. Alek Manoah (16-7, 2.24 ERA,) has been their ace all season long and his numbers show it. He's now had back to back shutout starts (13 total innings pitched,) while giving up just 6 hits and striking out 12 in that span. Manoah has never had a postseason start in the Majors, but it feels like this is the right time for him. He'll be up against Luis Castillo (8-6, 2.99 ERA,) on of the Mariners better pitchers himself. He's allowed 10 earned runs in his last 3 starts though and he's now going to go up against a very high-powered Blue Jays lineup filled with stars. Castillo hasn't been in a playoff situation either, but the 29 year old just got traded this trade deadline, so now he'll finally get the opportunity on a better team. I think the Jays will just be too much to handle, especially in game 1 with Manoah on the mound.

T.M. Prediction: 4-2 Blue Jays