Blue Jays’ Couch Becomes Iconic Symbol of World Series Glory

A pull-out couch has unexpectedly become a symbol of baseball history following a remarkable achievement by the Toronto Blue Jays. Fans can now view the very couch that Addison Barger slept on the night before he made history by hitting the first pinch-hit grand slam in World Series history. The couch is on display in the lobby of the Toronto Marriott City Centre until November 14, 2023, providing an unusual yet captivating tribute to a significant moment in the sport.

Barger’s historic home run occurred during Game One of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, contributing to an 11-4 victory for the Blue Jays. This win gave Toronto a 1-0 lead in the series. Barger had stayed with teammate Davis Schneider, as he was temporarily displaced from his apartment due to family visiting for the championship series. Schneider humorously recounted how Barger ended up on the couch, stating, “My girlfriend is here and he was like, ‘Can I sleep in the bed with you guys?’ So I was like, ‘No, sleep on my couch.’ It’s a pull-out. It was squeaking all night.”

A Couch Becomes a Shrine

The Marriott has embraced this quirky aspect of World Series lore by inviting fans to take photos with the couch as part of a contest. Participants have the chance to win a one-night stay in a field-view room, along with a Blue Jays jersey. The display has transformed an ordinary piece of hotel furniture into an unlikely shrine celebrating a moment of triumph for the team.

Despite their strong start in the series, the Blue Jays faced a dramatic turn of events in later games. They were just two outs away from capturing their first World Series title in 32 years when the Dodgers’ Miguel Rojas hit a game-tying home run in the ninth inning. The game ultimately ended with a decisive homer from Will Smith in the 11th inning, allowing the Dodgers to secure victory and become MLB’s first repeat champion in 25 years.

This blend of humor and history surrounding the couch highlights the camaraderie and unique experiences that athletes share, especially during high-stakes games. As fans flock to the Marriott to commemorate this moment, the couch serves as a reminder of both the highs and lows of competitive sports.

The story of Barger and his couch is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports, where even the most mundane items can become part of a larger narrative. As the Blue Jays continue their journey, this couch will remain a cherished piece of their history, connecting fans to a memorable World Series experience.