Toronto and New York duel in the postseason for the first time, with the Yankees favored by power while the Blue Jays counter with home-field bite and a balanced attack. Analysts spotlight Kevin Gausman on the mound and the Rogers Centre atmosphere as potential difference-makers, and the media paint a picture of a series decided more by timing and execution than one warm-up swing. The clash also spotlights October’s power versus contact dynamic, setting the stage for a hard-fought ALDS.

US outlets lean toward New York’s edge in power, but Toronto’s head-to-head success this season and the playoff crowd at Rogers Centre keep this a true series. The opener could set the tone as the teams navigate late-inning leverage, defense, and the volatility of October baseball, with fans weighing in on who carries the momentum.

Cam Schlittler blasted six pitches at 100 mph or faster in the first inning of Game 3, the most by any Yankees starter in a playoff frame, and fanned two hitters on triple-digit heaters—the acceleration weapon the Bronx hoped to see.

His breakout hints at a future in which the Yankees lean into his velocity, potentially anchoring a high-strikeout ceiling for fantasy rosters. If New York can protect his workload and mix, Schlittler could become a cornerstone piece for 2025 drafts and weekly lineups.