John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

The start times for every game in each of the four Wild Card Series have been announced by Major League Baseball.

The Toronto Blue Jays will have just the guy they want on the mound for Game 1 against the Seattle Mariners.

They’ll be sending staff ace Alek Manoah to the mound against the resurgent Mariners.

Manoah has been the guy for the Blue Jays this year, having gone 16-7 in 31 starts.

He’s also posted a 2.24 ERA in 196.2 innings pitched.

The game will get underway at 4:07 p.m. Eastern Time at Rogers Centre.

The Mariners have still yet to announce their Game 1 starter.

Jays Tap Manoah For Game 1

This could be a huge advantage for the Blue Jays.

Manoah has been the ace for them all season long.

This is the guy you absolutely do not want to face if you’re playing the Blue Jays.

But if you’re a Jays fan, this is who you want on the mound, beyond a shadow of a doubt.

Having him take the mound at home for the opener of a playoff series sets up quite well for the Blue Jays, who will be playing in the postseason in the second time in the last three years.

It’s been a fun year for the Blue Jays and their fans, and it’s about to get even more fun with Manoah starting on Friday night to kick off the postseason.

One can only imagine that the Mariners will counter with Luis Castillo, setting up what could be a pitching matchup for the ages.

The Blue Jays have the guy they want though.

It’s time to get excited.

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