Chris Bassitt Brings Humor and Heat as Blue Jays Chase Historic Title
Toronto reliever Chris Bassitt lightened the mood before Game 6 of the World Series with a Halloween costume — but his postseason performance has been no joke, providing key relief innings for a Blue Jays team one win from its first championship in over three decades.
- Glenn Catubig
- 4 min read
As the Toronto Blue Jays prepared for the most significant game in franchise history in more than 30 years, one player managed to bring some levity to the moment. On Halloween night, with the tension of Game 6 of the World Series filling Rogers Centre, veteran pitcher Chris Bassitt arrived in full costume — dressed head to toe in a ghillie suit, complete with a sign reading “I party with Sasquatch.” In one hand, the 36-year-old carried a flamethrower prop, grinning as cameras followed him through the tunnels.
It was an unexpected scene for a night carrying immense stakes. Toronto entered the game leading the Los Angeles Dodgers 3–2 in the best-of-seven series, one win away from its first World Series title since 1993. With the eyes of the baseball world on them, Bassitt’s playful entrance provided a moment of levity for teammates trying to stay loose amid the pressure.
While the Blue Jays’ clubhouse has largely been focused on business, Bassitt’s humor reflects the easygoing leadership he’s brought throughout the postseason. Known for his composure and veteran poise, the right-hander’s costume was both a nod to the date and a reminder of the balance he helps maintain in a high-pressure environment.
For a team mixing youthful energy with veteran experience, Bassitt’s presence has been invaluable. And behind the laughs, his on-field contributions have been even more impactful.
1. A Reliable Force Out of the Bullpen
Though Bassitt began the season as a starter, his role shifted when a back injury sidelined him late in the regular season. When he returned during the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners, the Blue Jays opted to use him out of the bullpen — a decision that has since paid major dividends. The 11-year veteran has appeared in five postseason games so far, delivering 6.2 scoreless innings. He’s struck out eight batters while allowing just a single hit, showcasing both command and confidence in late-inning situations. His 0.00 ERA through the playoffs stands as one of the best among relievers in this postseason, underscoring just how dependable he’s been when called upon. In Game 4 of the World Series — a 6–2 Toronto win — Bassitt threw two spotless innings, striking out two Dodgers and giving the bullpen a steady bridge to the closer. That outing solidified his place as a go-to option for manager John Schneider in high-leverage situations, even as the Blue Jays’ rotation has remained the backbone of their playoff run. His willingness to adapt from starter to reliever has been crucial. Bassitt’s ability to handle both roles with professionalism has allowed Toronto to maintain flexibility — an advantage in a series where bullpen depth often determines the outcome.
2. Veteran Leadership and Calm Amid the Chaos
Bassitt’s postseason performance is more than numbers — it’s about timing, trust, and temperament. Teammates have praised his calm demeanor, especially in tense moments when momentum teeters between dugouts. For a club trying to capture its first title since the Joe Carter era, such leadership has been essential. The right-hander’s presence has also set an example for the team’s younger arms. His ability to keep routines consistent, even while shifting roles, has reinforced a sense of stability in Toronto’s pitching staff. In a playoff environment where every mistake is magnified, Bassitt’s experience and preparation have stood out. Manager John Schneider has leaned on him not only for innings but for guidance — an extension of the coaching staff in the dugout. Whether offering advice to younger relievers or simply keeping the mood light, Bassitt has shown the value of veteran balance during the team’s championship push. And as his costume antics showed before Game 6, that balance extends off the field too — embracing the moment, keeping things in perspective, and ensuring that joy doesn’t get lost amid the pursuit of history.
3. The Blue Jays’ Steady Hand in October
As Toronto chases its first World Series crown in over three decades, Chris Bassitt’s blend of humor, leadership, and clutch performances has become one of the team’s quieter success stories. His ability to contribute effectively despite limited appearances has strengthened a bullpen that’s been a difference-maker throughout the postseason. The 36-year-old’s transition from rotation anchor to late-inning weapon demonstrates the adaptability of a player still hungry for a title. Even as the spotlight shines on the likes of Kevin Gausman and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bassitt’s reliability has quietly reinforced Toronto’s confidence. If the Blue Jays can close out the series, Bassitt’s name may not dominate headlines, but his efforts — both on the mound and in the clubhouse — will have played a meaningful part in the team’s championship run. And regardless of the final outcome, his Halloween entrance will go down as one of the postseason’s most memorable moments — a lighthearted reminder of how to handle pressure with personality.