It’s Toronto’s house, New York’s swagger—Game 1 first pitch 4:08 p.m. ET at Rogers Centre

Folks, buckle up—postseason baseball has finally rolled into Toronto! The AL East rivals meet in October for the first time ever, and the Rogers Centre roof might not be the only thing closed—runs could be at a premium with two power arms on the bump.

Game 1 Starters: Kevin Gausman gets the ball for the Jays, while the Yankees counter with Luis Gil, who draws the Game 1 nod after New York’s gritty Wild Card run. First pitch is 4:08 p.m. ET.

Why Toronto Likes Its Chances

• Home-field edge: Toronto owns the opener and Game 2 at the Dome; the series moves to the Bronx for Game 3 (and 4 if needed). The Jays also won the season series 8–5.

• Gausman factor: Toronto’s ace sets the tone; when he’s spotting the splitter, hitters go fishing. He’s confirmed for Game 1.

Why the Yankees Won’t Blink

• Rotation rolling: Manager Aaron Boone lines up Gil (G1), Max Fried (G2), Carlos Rodón (G3), and Cam Schlittler (G4, if needed)—with Fried ready again for a potential Game 5. That’s length, stuff, and plenty of swing-and-miss.

• Battle-tested: Fresh off outlasting Boston in the Wild Card, New York arrives with momentum and moxie.

X-Factor Watch

• Bo Bichette’s status: Toronto’s star shortstop remains “increasingly unlikely” for the ALDS opener as he rehabs a left knee sprain—Toronto’s been 15–8 without him, but his bat and leadership loom large. Roster call remains fluid.

• Star power: Keep eyes on Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, and yes, Aaron Judge—oddsmakers like his chances to leave a souvenir.

Series at a Glance

• Game 1: Sat., Oct. 4 — 4:08 p.m. ET — Rogers Centre (FOX)

• Game 2: Sun., Oct. 5 — 4:08 p.m. ET — Rogers Centre (FS1)

• Game 3: Tues., Oct. 7 — Yankee Stadium
  (Games 4–5 if necessary: Oct. 8 in NY, Oct. 10 back in Toronto)

The Call from the Booth

“Clear the deck and cue the drama—Toronto’s bats versus New York’s arms is your headline. If Gausman commands early and the Jays scratch first, the Dome will rumble. But Gil’s riding fresh legs and a fearless four-seam.

This one screams one big swing late decides it.”