The Toronto Blue Jays are fighting for survival in ALCS Game 4 tonight against the Seattle Mariners, trailing 2-1 in the series. Kevin Gausman looms as a potential Game 5 starter, but Toronto must first solve Seattle’s dominant pitching staff to force a decisive matchup.

Live updates will track key moments as the Jays attempt to rally against MLB’s hottest bullpen. First pitch is set for 8:08 PM ET, with free streaming available through multiple platforms.

Blue Jays Game 4 Live: ALCS Score Updates, Mariners Pitching Dominance, and How to Watch Free Stream Tonight

ALCS Game 4 Preview: Blue Jays Face Elimination Against Mariners

The Toronto Blue Jays enter Game 4 of the ALCS in a must-win situation, trailing the Seattle Mariners 2-1 in the series. After dropping the first two games in Seattle, the Jays managed to secure a crucial Game 3 victory, but now face another elimination scenario. The Mariners’ pitching staff has been nearly unhittable, posting a combined 2.08 ERA through the first three games.

Toronto’s offense, which was one of the most potent in baseball during the regular season, has struggled mightily against Seattle’s arms. The Blue Jays are hitting just .207 as a team in the ALCS, with particularly poor numbers with runners in scoring position (2-for-17). Manager John Schneider will need to make significant adjustments to his lineup if they hope to extend the series.

This Toronto lineup looks completely lost against Seattle’s pitching approach. They’re swinging at pitches they normally crush in the regular season. The pressure of elimination might actually help them relax and perform better tonight.

Mariners Pitching Dominance: How Seattle is Shutting Down Toronto’s Bats

Seattle’s pitching staff has been the story of this ALCS, completely neutralizing Toronto’s powerful lineup. Their starters have combined for a 2.08 ERA, while the bullpen has been even more impressive with a 1.45 ERA. The Mariners are inducing ground balls at a 52% rate while striking out nearly 10 batters per 9 innings.

Key Pitching Matchups

• George Kirby vs Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: Kirby has held Guerrero to 1-for-7 in the series
• Andrés Muñoz vs Bo Bichette: Bichette is 0-for-5 with 3 strikeouts against Muñoz
• Logan Gilbert’s changeup: Toronto hitters are batting just .120 against it

What’s scary is that Seattle hasn’t even needed their full rotation yet. They’re perfectly set up for a potential Game 5 with fresh arms waiting in the wings if they don’t close it out tonight.

Blue Jays Offensive Struggles: What Needs to Change

The Blue Jays’ offensive woes have been the biggest surprise of this series. After ranking in the top 5 in runs scored during the regular season, they’ve managed just 7 runs through three ALCS games. Their situational hitting has been particularly poor, with runners in scoring position becoming automatic outs.

Potential Adjustments

Hitting coach Guillermo Martinez might need to overhaul the team’s approach against Seattle’s pitching. Possible changes include:

• More aggressive early-count swings against Seattle’s strike-throwers
• Increased use of the opposite field to combat the shift
• Better plate discipline with 2 strikes
• More small ball tactics to manufacture runs

Toronto’s hitters look like they’re trying to do too much. Sometimes in playoff baseball, you need to simplify your approach – see the ball, hit the ball. They’re overanalyzing every pitch.

How to Watch ALCS Game 4: Free Streaming Options and TV Channels

For fans looking to catch the action, Game 4 will be broadcast on FS1 with streaming available through various platforms. First pitch is scheduled for 8:08 PM ET at T-Mobile Park in Seattle. Cord-cutters can access the game via:

• FuboTV (7-day free trial available)
• DirecTV Stream (5-day free trial)
• Sling TV (special playoff package)
• MLB.TV (postseason subscription)

International viewers can watch through their local sports networks or MLB’s international streaming partners. Radio broadcasts will be available on Sportsnet 590 in Toronto and ESPN Radio nationally.

The free streaming options are a great way for casual fans to catch what could be the clinching game of the ALCS. MLB has done a decent job making playoff baseball accessible this year.

Kevin Gausman Game 5 Status: Will He Pitch on Short Rest?

All eyes are already looking ahead to a potential Game 5, where Kevin Gausman might take the mound on short rest. The veteran right-hander pitched effectively in Game 2 despite the loss, and Toronto might need him to come back early to save their season.

Gausman’s Short Rest History

In his career, Gausman has made three starts on three days’ rest, posting a respectable 3.68 ERA. However, the Blue Jays must first force a Game 5 before this becomes relevant. Pitching coach Pete Walker will need to carefully monitor his workload if they do advance.

Game 4 Predictions and Odds: Can Blue Jays Force Decider?

Sportsbooks list Seattle as -145 favorites for Game 4, suggesting they have about a 59% chance to close out the series. The over/under runs total is set at 7.5, reflecting confidence in both teams’ pitching staffs.

Expert Predictions

• 68% of ESPN analysts pick Seattle to win Game 4
• The ‘Under’ has hit in 7 of last 9 Mariners home games
• Toronto is 1-4 in last 5 elimination games

These odds seem generous to Toronto given how they’ve looked at the plate. Unless they have a complete offensive turnaround, I don’t see how they solve Seattle’s pitching tonight.