When Seattle Mariners revealed their 25‑man lineup for Game 1 of the American League Championship SeriesRogers Centre, Toronto, the baseball world took note of a roster that blends fresh arms with seasoned depth.
Roster Overview
The checklist reads like a who’s‑who of the Mariners’ 2025 season. Starting pitcher Bryan Woo, who posted a 2.65 ERA over 12 regular‑season starts, earned his first postseason nod. The bench features a mix of speed, power, and defensive versatility, highlighted by outfielder Miles Mastrobuoni and first‑base prospect Luke Raley. Below is the full Game 1 roster:
- Pitchers: Bryan Woo, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Erik Swanson, Paul Fry
- Catchers: Cal Raleigh, Mitch Garver, Harry Ford
- Infielders: Luis Urias, J.P. Crawford, Ty France
- Outfielders: Miles Mastrobuoni, Ben Williamson, Luke Raley
- Designated Hitter: Julio Rodríguez
Pitching Choices: Why Woo Made the Cut
Woo’s ascent has been nothing short of a breakout story. After joining Seattle as an undrafted free agent in 2021, he logged 78 strikeouts in 63 innings this year, translating to a 12.1 K/9 rate. Scott Servais, the Mariners’ manager, said, “Bryan’s composure in high‑leverage spots convinced me he belongs here. He can eat innings and keep the bullpen rested for a long series.” The decision also reflects Seattle’s intent to swing the left‑handed‑right‑handed matchup ladder, as Woo will counter the Blue Jays’ right‑handed rotation starters.
Depth Behind the Plate
Having three catchers on a postseason roster might look excessive, but the Mariners have a clear rationale. Cal Raleigh entered the season as the everyday catcher, finishing with a .278 batting average and 18 home runs. Yet, his defensive metrics—especially pitch framing—ranked just outside the top ten among MLB catchers. Mitch Garver offers a power bat (12 homers) and a veteran’s game‑calling ability, while Harry Ford brings a left‑handed option and solid block‑off skills. This trio lets Seattle adjust to the Blue Jays’ varied bullpen, especially the heavy left‑hander usage by Toronto’s ace, Toronto Blue Jays.
Strategic Implications for the Series
Beyond the roster sheet, the selections signal Seattle’s broader game plan. The Mariners posted a league‑best 99 wins, posting a team ERA of 3.34 and outscoring opponents by an average of 2.1 runs per game. Their offense, anchored by Julio Rodríguez’s .322 slash line, pairs well with a flexible bench that can shift from speed (Mastrobuoni’s 0.28 SB/PA) to power (Raleigh’s 21‑run streak in late‑season games).
Analyst Jeff Passan noted, “Seattle is betting on depth. The Blue Jays have a strong starting rotation, but they lack a true dominant ace. If Woo can knock out a couple of innings early, it forces Toronto’s bullpen deeper sooner, which could be the series‑changing factor.”
What Comes Next: Game 1 Preview
The opening contest will tip‑off at 7:05 p.m. ET on October 12 at the Rogers Centre. Toronto will likely start right‑hander Kevin Gausman, who posted a 3.11 ERA this season. Seattle’s likely rotation matchup: Woo versus Gausman, with Logan Gilbert set to follow. If Woo can keep the game within two runs through six innings, the Mariners’s bullpen—anchored by Paul Fry and Andres Munoz—could lock down the win.
Fans in Toronto are already buzzing, especially after the Blue Jays announced their own 28‑man roster, which includes rookie pitcher Nick Higson and a surprise call‑up of veteran reliever Justin Field. The stage is set for a classic East‑coast showdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Mariners include three catchers on the ALCS roster?
Seattle wants flexibility against Toronto’s left‑handed relievers. Cal Raleigh provides everyday stamina, Mitch Garver adds power and veteran pitch‑calling, and Harry Ford gives a left‑handed defensive option, ensuring the team can shift catchers without sacrificing offense or framing.
What makes Bryan Woo a viable postseason starter?
Woo posted a 2.65 ERA and a 12.1 K/9 rate in the regular season, showing poise in high‑leverage situations. His ability to eat innings and keep pitch counts low gives Seattle’s bullpen breathing room, a crucial factor in a seven‑game series.
How does Seattle’s regular‑season performance influence its ALCS strategies?
Finishing with a league‑best 99 wins and a team ERA of 3.34, the Mariners rely on a balanced attack—strong starting pitching, deep bullpen, and an offense that can produce both power and speed. Their roster choices reflect an emphasis on depth to sustain that success against a talented Blue Jays squad.
Who are the key opponents the Mariners will face in Game 1?
Toronto will likely start right‑hander Kevin Gausman, who pitched a 3.11 ERA this season. The Blue Jays also have a deep bullpen featuring left‑handers like Tim Mayza, meaning Seattle’s catching depth could be a tactical advantage.
What does this series mean for Seattle’s chances at a World Series?
A win in Game 1 puts Seattle in a strong position to seize early momentum. With a deep roster, versatile bench, and a pitching staff capable of stretching innings, the Mariners are poised to challenge for their first World Series title since 2001.