[MLB] Sprague's Pinch-Blast: 34 Years Since Jays' Game 2 Classic

[Mickey the Mouth]

SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.​

Thirty-four years ago, Ed Sprague delivered one of the most important home runs in Blue Jays history.

Toronto entered the ninth inning of Game 2 trailing Atlanta 4-3, having already dropped the series opener 3-1. After Derek Bell drew a pinch-hit walk, Sprague came off the bench and launched a first-pitch shot over the left-field wall, giving the Jays their first lead.

The comeback completed a wild contest. David Cone, acquired from the Mets on August 27th for Jeff Kent, allowed four runs over 4.1 innings but also contributed two hits and an RBI at the plate. Toronto's bullpen delivered 4.2 hitless innings, with Duane Ward earning the win and Tom Henke recording a tense save.

The victory squared the series at one game apiece. Toronto went on to capture the 1992 World Series in six games, claiming the franchise's first championship.

Mickey's Angle: Clutch pinch-hitting wins championships—Sprague's swing reminds us that October heroes can come from anywhere on the bench.

Source: Yahoo Sports - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.