TORONTO — Toronto Blue Jays fans faced disappointment on Friday night as the team lost Game 6 of the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, 3-1. The defeat prevented the Blue Jays from clinching the championship and forced a decisive Game 7. Fans had gathered at Rogers Centre, anticipating a celebration, as the Jays led the series 3-2 and were aiming to win the Commissioner's Trophy for the first time in over 30 years.

In a tense ninth inning, the Blue Jays had runners in scoring position but could not capitalize. Andres Gimenez flew out, and Addison Barger hit a ball that became lodged under the outfield wall, resulting in a double play that ended the game.

“I feel terrible. It’s a heartbreaker,” said Mike Franklin, a fan who had hoped to celebrate in the streets of Toronto alongside Halloween revelers. “Tomorrow is the night. That’s it.”

Despite the loss, many fans remained optimistic about the upcoming Game 7. Elise Goodhoofd, dressed in a blue jay bird costume that had been stored away since 2016, expressed her determination. “We are devastated, but you know there’s always hope with Game 7, so we’re going to come back tomorrow,” she said.

Jordan Hagen described the end of the game as “a little confusing,” noting that some fans thought the score was tied due to the ball being stuck in the wall. However, he still called it an “exceptional game” and expressed confidence in the Jays’ chances for Game 7. “Jays have a good chance ... they should use everything they have in the bullpen,” he said.

Mark Chinchilla, another fan in costume, played the saxophone at Nathan Phillips Square to lift spirits. “I will be here again tomorrow,” he said. “I think we can get Game 7.”

Watch parties are set to continue across Toronto and other cities as millions of fans rally behind the Blue Jays. The City of Toronto is coordinating with the Rogers Centre, police, and transit agencies to prepare for various scenarios as the World Series concludes.

Toronto police have conducted extensive planning since the Jays secured their spot in the series, promising a significant presence both inside and outside Rogers Centre. Additionally, the Toronto Transit Commission has increased service on major subway lines and downtown streetcar routes for Games 6 and 7, postponing planned subway closures for the weekend.

Last week, the Blue Jays celebrated a thrilling Game 7 victory in the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners, which saw thousands of fans take to the streets in jubilation. Game 7 of the World Series is scheduled for Saturday night in Toronto.