The Blue Jays head into Game 6 tonight down 2–3 against the Mariners, fighting to push the series to a winner-take-all Game 7. But how Toronto has been handling its pitching staff has been a sight to experience. John Schneider summed it up best: “We’re trying to win one game in a row.”

The Jays aren’t worrying much about traditional rest days, but they’re simply using every arm available to survive each matchup. Enters the scene: Kevin Gausman. He’s already started Game 1 and Game 5. And for tonight, Game 4 winner Max Scherzer was there in the bullpen as insurance behind Trey Yesavage.

Amidst all that, Gausman has vowed to push through any physical limits in Game 7 if Toronto manages to stay alive tonight. “Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Kevin Gausman has declared his readiness for a potential Game 7 of the ALCS against the Seattle Mariners,” Rotoballer reported. And this comes after the veteran’s statement itself.

Gausman said he will be “out there cleated up and ready to go” in the bullpen if the series reaches a decisive game! He will not start the game if required, but will come as a relief pitcher. So now, as the Jays won Game 6 by 6-2, get ready to see Gausman as a relief pitcher in the series decider.

And we’ve seen Gausman in the bullpen before.

He and Trey Yesavage came out in the bullpen during Toronto’s Game 4 win over the Yankees earlier in the ALDS. Although that move felt more like a bit of showmanship, this time, it’s for real needs.

Reportedly, Gausman’s last true postseason relief outing came back in 2021 with the Giants. Then he entered in the ninth inning of a Game 5 loss and recorded two outs. Now, it’s unlikely he’d be called that late again. But Schneider made it clear that nothing’s off the table. “You’ll see some guys that you normally haven’t seen in the bullpen, and you try to pick the right spots for them,” Schneider shared. “We want to try to operate as normally as possible, but if situations pop up, I think everyone will be available.”

Schneider went for his words tonight only.

Yesavage notched his first career triple-double in the majors. He struck out seven Mariners over 5 2/3 innings while holding Seattle to just two runs tonight. After that, the Blue Jays’ manager brought in Louis Varland to handle bullpen duties, marking Varland’s third straight game after pitching in Games 4 and 5. Schneider explained that, at this point, every game is crucial. So, pitching decisions will come down to the situation rather than a set rotation.

So, seeing Gausman back on the mound might not be as far-fetched as it sounds. But what about the other key players sidelined for the Blue Jays?

A few more good news are on the bucket for the Blue Jays

Toronto fans got a welcome sight on Sunday night as George Springer returned to the lineup just two days after taking a 95.6 mph fastball off his right knee in Game 5. As was evident in the game, the veteran outfielder showed no hesitation in Game 6 of the ALCS against Seattle. While he didn’t have a breakout night at the plate, finishing 1-for-4 with a stolen base, his presence alone was a huge lift for the clubhouse.

Springer is currently in his 8th postseason appearance and is hitting .233 with 3 HRs. So, his leadership and postseason experience make him a steadying force at the top of the order. And his quick return was a relief for fans and teammates alike heading into a must-win Game 7.

Meanwhile, there’s a glimmer of good news also surrounding Bo Bichette.

The All-Star shortstop, who’s been sidelined throughout the playoffs while recovering from a knee injury, looks to be nearing a comeback.

During Sunday’s batting practice, Bichette was seen launching home runs with ease. That is a hint enough that he might be ready to rejoin the lineup if the Blue Jays can punch their ticket to the World Series against the Dodgers. His return would add another dangerous bat and much-needed depth to Toronto’s offense.

For now, though, the Blue Jays’ focus remains squarely on Game 7. With the season on the line, every move will matter. And the Blue Jays are gearing up for what promises to be one of their most intense games of the year.