The Toronto Blue Jays are celebrating their first World Series appearance in 32 years after a thrilling 4-3 comeback victory over the Seattle Mariners. As the team doused each other in champagne and beer, players reflected on who they were happiest for in this momentous achievement. Kevin Gausman, who was still holding the William Harridge Trophy awarded to the American League Championship Series (ALCS) champion, was the first to respond. He made his way from the trophy presentation podium to the lively celebration area outside the clubhouse. “I’d say everybody,” Gausman said, displaying his diplomatic nature. “But probably Donnie (Mattingly). Just the fact that he had the career that he had and never got there and now he’s able to get there with us. He was a guy who was one of the first people I wanted to hug when we won.” Gausman also mentioned pitching coach Pete Walker as someone he was particularly happy for. “It’s not so much the players. Obviously, I am happy for them, but that’s everybody. We’re a collective group and it’s a whole organizational achievement, so obviously really exciting,” he added. Mattingly, who played 14 seasons with the New York Yankees, has a career batting average of .307. His journey has included 12 years as a manager and nearly a decade as a coach. Despite his accolades, this will be Mattingly's first trip to the World Series as a member of a team. Timing has not favored Mattingly in his pursuit of the Fall Classic. The Yankees lost the Series the year before he debuted and won it the year after he retired. They also had the best record in the American League in 1994, but the season was cut short due to a strike. Gausman emerged as a popular choice among teammates when asked who they were happiest for. Pitcher Chris Bassitt, 36, expressed pride in Gausman’s journey. “I’d have to say Kevin,” Bassitt said. “Gausie has been through a lot. Gausie got DFA’ed. Gausie got doubted. Gausie has been a workhorse for a long time in this league, and for him to come here with me and Berrios and to lead us to a World Series, I’m so proud of him.” Closer Jeff Hoffman echoed Bassitt’s sentiments, stating, “I think Kevin Gausman really deserves it. He’s been doing it for so long at such a high level, and everyone deserves a chance to win it all that does it like him.” Gausman has been a key player throughout the ALCS, contributing significantly in Games 1 and 5, and even making a rare seventh-inning relief appearance in Game 7. He has been pitching in the majors since 2013, with his debut occurring in Toronto for the Baltimore Orioles. After being designated for assignment multiple times and facing challenges in his career, Gausman has re-established himself and is now a two-time All-Star. Until this season, he had only appeared in one Championship Series back in 2014. Some players found it difficult to single out just one teammate deserving of recognition. Shane Bieber, who started Game 7, noted, “Too many to count to be honest. Obviously the headliners like George (Springer) after tonight, we’re very happy to have him, but so many guys contribute to each and every victory.” As the Blue Jays bask in their achievement, the question of who deserves this World Series the most remains subjective. With the possibility of Bo Bichette returning from injury, the narrative may shift in the coming days. For now, the team is united in their joy and celebration of this historic moment.