Springer hits first-pitch leadoff homer as Jays open ALCS

Toronto outfielder George Springer launched the first pitch he saw from Seattle starter Bryce Miller for a solo home run in the first inning of Game 1 of the American League Championship Series on Sunday at Rogers Centre, giving the Blue Jays an early 1-0 lead and producing the first postseason leadoff homer in franchise history. The 385 foot drive to right field cleared the seats in the right-field bullpen and electrified the home crowd.

The homer came on a fastball that was recorded at 97 miles per hour and put Toronto ahead immediately in the ALCS opener. It also moved Springer past Derek Jeter into sole possession of fifth place on the all-time postseason home run list, according to official records. Springer already ranks among the most prolific regular-season leadoff power hitters, with 63 career leadoff homers, second only to Rickey Henderson's 81.

Springer’s long fly was both a statistical milestone and a momentum play. Statisticians note that hitting a leadoff homer on the first pitch of a postseason game is rare; only two other players have done so since pitch tracking began in 1988. The Blue Jays, who advanced by defeating the New York Yankees in the Division Series,...