George Springer’s unforgettable three-run home run in Game 7 of the AL Championship series against the Seattle Mariners has etched a place in Blue Jays history alongside iconic moments like Joe Carter’s World Series homer and Jose Bautista’s legendary bat flip.
Eight-year-old Michael Gomes won tickets to the game through the Rogers Beyond The Seat giveaway and was at Rogers Centre on that fateful night of Oct. 20. Unfortunately, he missed the electrifying moment due to falling ill and ended up watching the game’s conclusion from a hospital bed at SickKids hospital.
The past 18 months have been challenging for Gomes, who has been grappling with an undiagnosed illness, transitioning from a competitive gymnast to a wheelchair user. His mother, Ariel, shared the emotional toll, stating, “When a child should be focusing on playtime, Michael faces much bigger worries.”
Despite the common advice to never meet your heroes, Gomes had a heartwarming encounter. He was invited to the Sportsnet studios, where he met his hero, George Springer, and relived the excitement of the Game 7 victory together. Gomes, with wide eyes, requested a hug, to which Springer gladly obliged before they watched the replay of the historic home run.
Reflecting on the experience, Springer expressed, “To bring happiness like this means the world to me. All the sacrifices and time away from family, moments like this with a special individual are truly priceless.”
This touching moment holds profound significance for Gomes and Ariel, marking a memory that will forever stay with their family. Looking ahead, while Springer anticipates a strong season for the Blue Jays in 2026, Michael remains hopeful to be back in the stands.