Jays in the House: April 2019

Tuesday, April 30, 2019

#29 - Toronto Blue Jays (14-14) at Los Angeles Angels (12-17)

Tuesday, April 30, 2019 | 10:07 pm ET

Angel Stadium of Anaheim | Anaheim, CA

Clay Buchholz (0-1, 4.60, 1.34) vs. Griffin Canning (MLB debut)

PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays, coming off a sweep of the Oakland Eh's, travel out west to take on the L.A. Angels in a three-game series to kick off a two-city road trip that also goes through Arlington, TX. They're 3-0 in the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Era, and look to carry on the momentum in the home of his father's "other" primary team.

Clay Buchholz takes the ball for the Jays as he looks to bounce back from a sub-optimal performance against the Giants. Griffin Canning will make his major-league debut on the hill for the Angels.

Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 4 : April 22-28

Here we are, a month into the 2019 regular season. The highlight of this week was the much-anticipated MLB debut of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The son of former Expo Vladimir Guerrero, Guerrero Jr. has quickly advanced through the minor league system, bathing well over .300 at each of the single-A,, double-A and triple-A levels, hitting well above .300 at each level. Guerrero Jr.'s defense has been steadily improving as well. This week, former Blue Jays Kendrys Morales and Kevin Pillar made their return to the Roger's center. Marco Estrada should have also been in Toronto but he is injured and thus was not on the trip with Oakland. The Blue Jays now embark on a week long road trip that will see Vladimir Guerrero Jr. play in Anaheim, where his father Vlad Sr. spent six seasons. Guerrero Jr. will also visit Arlington Texas, where his father played a season in 2010. Here are ten random thoughts from week 4 of the MLB.

Game #28 Oakland A's (14-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-14) - game recap

Brandon Drury hit a clutch game-tying 3-run bomb as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the A's 5-4

The Blue jays wrapped up the homestand today with a tilt vs. the Oakland A's. This season has proved to be a reversal of fortunes. In 2018, Oakland won all seven games and a win today would have Toronto sweeping the season series.Trent Thornton was back on the mound in his 6th attempt at his first career win. Luke Maile was his battery mate behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays get back to .500, sweep the season series and hit the road riding a three game winning streak? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Eric Sogard smacked a solo shot into the A's bullpen to extend his hitting streak to 10 games.
The A's tied the game in the top of the 3rd as Khris Davis doubled home Matt Chapman
Trent Thronton pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 5BB 7K 103 pitches (56 for strikes)
Chris Bassitt pitching line: 7IP 3H 1R (earned) 0BB 9K 103 pitches (70 for strikes)
The A's took the lead in the top of the 11th as Stephen Piscotty scored on a sac fly by Roman Laureano
A batter later, Josh Phegley doubled scoring Kendrys Morales
Three batters later, Chapman was hit by a pitch, forcing in Phegley
The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Brandon Drury launched a three-run blast to right-center also scoring Rowdy Tellez and Billy McKinney
Four batters later, Justin Smoak singled home Freddy Galvis
Final score: Blue Jays 5 A's 4

My Take

Both starting pitchers threw 103 pitches, but A's starter Chris Bassitt lasted an extra two innings because he did not walk a batter, whereas Blue Jays starter Trent Thornton was wild again, walking five batters, and throwing 30 pitches in the 1st inning alone. He managed to escape a bases loaded jam in the opening inning and ended the 5th inning by striking out Khris Davis. If Thornton wants to win in this league, he needs much better command of his pitches.
Has Devon Travis played his last game in a Blue Jays uniform? Look at the players currently playing in the field. Brandon Drury has been clutch at the plate this week, Eric Sogard is just playing on another level, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is still very early in his MLB career and the team will be patient with him. Finally, Freddy Galvis isn't far off from returning. Even injured, he managed to get a long single and gut it out around the bases to score the game-winning run. It's entirely possible that Devon Travis gets moved without playing another game in a Blue Jays uniform, once he's healthy.
Curious move by Charlie Montoyo pinch running for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Sure, Guerrero Jr. may not be the quickest base runner in the world, but by removing him from the game, Montoyo took away his bat for some potential extra-inning heroics
Way too many walks given up by Blue Jays pitchers today. Besides Thronton's five walks, lefty Thomas Pannone walked a trio of batters. Pitching coach Pete Walker was ejected in the 11th inning for arguing balls and strikes. However, the umpire won't give the benefit of the doubt on close pitches if the pitcher hasn't been consistently throwing strikes. Also, most umpires won't fall for the catcher bringing the ball back into the strike zone.
Up next, after a travel day Monday, the Blue Jays open a three game series against the LA Angels. Clay Buchholz takes the ball against Angels righty Griffin Canning who will be making his MLB debut.

#28 - Oakland Eh's (14-15) at Toronto Blue Jays (13-14)

Vlad at the Raptors game

Sunday, April 28, 2019 | 1:07 pm ET

Rogers Centre | Toronto, ON

PREAMBLE:

The Toronto Blue Jays look to wrap up their second-straight series sweep of the Oakland Athletics and to complete a reversal of last year's 0-7 record. The Jays also look to stay undefeated in the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Era.

Trent Thornton takes the mound as he looks to secure his first major-league win and get over the hump of a few inconsistent starts in a row. He'll face Chris Bassitt, who has faced the Jays once in 2016, getting gonged for nine hits and six runs in five innings.

Game #27 Oakland A's (14-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-14) - game recap

Randal Grichuk drove in a pair of runs as the Blue Jays cruised to a 7-1 victory over the A's

A day after yesterday's dramatic win in Vladimir Guerrero Jr's much anticipated MLB debut, the Blue Jays were back at it looking to continue going for the season sweep, a season after the A's won every game vs. the Blue Jays in 2018. Aaron Sanchez got the start five days after leaving his last start with a busted fingernail. Regardless of if he can pitch deep into the game, the more important factor to me is whether he can utilize all his pitches effectively. If Sanchez can't use all his pitches, he should be sitting out a start, because he is just hurting himself and the team by not having his full arsenal available. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. batted cleanup after batting 5th in his debut. Could the Blue Jays continue their dominance of the A's? Here is today's game recap.

Saturday, April 27, 2019 | 3:07 pm VT

Guerrero Centre | Toronto, ON

PREAMBLE:

A bit hyperbolic with the info above? Perhaps, but it certainly felt like there was an unnamed cast of thousands out there on the field beside the one guy that everyone came to see. Yesterday's game didn't disappoint for some happy drama with a Drury walk-off coming after Vlad's first hit, a double, in the bottom of the 9th inning.

Today is game 2 of the Guerrero Jr. Era as the Blue Jays look to continue their revenge tour against the Athletics -- last season, the Athletics went 7-0 against the Jays and so far this season, the tables have been turned with the Jays leading the season series 4-0.

Aaron Sanchez takes the ball today, going up against Brett Anderson in a matchup of starters who left their most recent starts with injury (Sanchez - broken finger nail, Anderson - ankle sprain). Can they stay healthy long enough to turn in a decent pitching matchup?

Game #26 Oakland A's (14-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-14) - game recap

Brandon Drury hit a walk-off HR as the Blue Jays doubled up on the A's 4-2

The big moment has arrived. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. made his long-anticipated MLB debut after two plus years if ripping apart minor league pitching.Richard Urena was optioned to Buffalo to make room on the roster. Marcus Stroman was back on the mound five days after a masterful 8 inning gem. Could the Blue Jays win the first game with Vlad in the lineup? Here is today's game recap.

Friday, April 26, 2019 | 7:07 pm ET

Rogers Centre | Toronto, ON

PREAMBLE:

The Toronto Blue Jays open a three-game series against the Oakland Athletics and ...

Oh, what the hell, you all know why you're here. You didn't come in to read some boring shit about who's pitching for the Jays and about our opponent.

It's the Vladdening. Vladdy Day. The prodigy has arrived to make his major league debut.

Congrats, Mike Fiers. You've won the sweepstakes for the right to potentially have your ass be Fiers-ed up by Vlad Jr. for his first hit.

Game #25 San Francisco Giants (11-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (11-14) - game recap

He's coming Friday and not a moment too soon after today's lackluster 4-0 loss to the Giants

This was officially the last game without Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the lineup. Carlie Montoyo announced after the game that he will be recalled and make his MLB debut Friday vs. Oakland. Freddy Galvis remained out of the lineup with the hamstring issue that has been plaguing him since Sunday and may be placed on the 10 day DL to make room for Guerrero Jr. on the roster. Could the Blue Jays split this mini series? Here is today's game recap.

I always enjoyed his nickname, "The Count."

Wednesday, April 24, 2019 | 4:07 pm ET

Rogers Centre | Toronto, ON

PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays' four-game winning streak came to an end with a 7-6 loss yesterday. Today, they look to gain a series split against the San Francisco Giants before enjoying a day off and then welcoming the Oakland Athletics to Rogers Centre for a series that could very well see the debut of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

It's a battle of former Red Sox teammates on the mound in today's afternoon game -- Clay Buchholz takes on Drew Pomeranz.

Pity we won't get to see Madison Bumgarner in this series.

Game #24 San Francisco Giants (10-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (11-13) - game recap

Rowdy Tellez hit his first career grand slam in a losing effort as the Blue jays were edged by the Giants 7-6

The San Francisco Giants and Kevin Pillar made their quick two game trip to Toronto this evening. Vladimir Guerrero Jr was not recalled by the Blue Jays for this game. This might have been for the better because had he been recalled, Pillar's return to Toronto would have been overshadowed. Besides, Guerrero Jr. has only played six games so far, and the team wants him to work on defense away from 3rd Base, which may be better accomplished playing at a lower level. Some good news and bad news to report on the injury front. Number two prospect Bo Bichette fractured his hand on a hit by pitch last night and is seeking a second opinion. He'll likely miss a good month at minimum. The two pieces of good news are Aaron Sanchez is expected to make his next start, despite leaving his last start with a broken fingernail. Freddy Galvis was held out of the starting lineup with a sore hamstring that he injured in the ninth inning Sunday. Trent Thornton was still looking for his first MLB win. Luke Maile was behind the plate and Socrates Brito got the start in CF. Could the Blue Jays ruin Pillar's return and beat the Giants? Here is today's game recap.

Remember when the Giants was almost moved to Toronto in 1976? This was their logo back then.

Tuesday, April 23, 2019 | 7:07 pm ET

Rogers Centre | Toronto, ON

PREAMBLE:

The Toronto Blue Jays return home after a massively successful road trip where they went 6-1 against two solid teams (Minnesota, Oakland), and they look to continue that momentum as they take on the San Francisco Giants at the Rogers Centre.

Trent Thornton looks to rediscover the form displayed in his first two starts and secure his first major league win. He'll go up against Jeff Samardzija, who has owned the Jays in his three previous starts against them (2-0, 0.39). Pretty numbers like that are meant to be messed up!

Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 3: April 15-21

The Blue Jays had a good week taking 3 or 4 from the Twins, and sweeping the Oakland A's. Unfortunately it wasn't all good news. Matt Shoemaker was lost in the bottom of the third inning to a gruesome looking knee injury, conformed Sunday to be an season-ending torn ACL. Freddy Galvis and Eric Sogard continue to impress. Top prospects Vladimir Guerrero Jr is expected to be recalled this week and his major league debut. The team is holding him back to get multiple games in a row in. Due to increment weather and scheduled off days Guerrero Jr. Junior has essentially been playing every other day. Both the future and the present look bright. Here are 10 random thoughts from week 3 of the MLB.

Game #23 Toronto Blue Jays (11-12) @ Oakland A's (11-13) - game recap

Justin Smoak was 4-5 with a pair of RBI and a run scored as the Blue Jays edged the A's 5-4

The Blue Jays rallied nicely behind injured starter Matt Shoemaker, putting together a big five run inning to ensure the team would win for him. As expected, Matt Shoemaker was placed on the 10 day IL with Richard Urena keeping the seat warm for Vlad's debut next week. Aaron Sanchez got the start, looking to continue his strong start to the season. The Blue Jays were looking for their first series sweep since sweeping Baltimore August 20-22 last season. Could the Blue Jays end the road trip victorious? Here is today's game recap.

Charlie O and the 1970s A's

Sunday, April 21, 2019 | 4:07 pm ET

Oakland Coliseum | Oakland, CA

Aaron Sanchez (1-2, 2.86, 1.36) vs. Brett Anderson (3-0, 2.63, 1.21)

PREAMBLE:

There was the offensive explosion we had been waiting for all season long - 10 runs on 15 hits with the game in cruise control when the Athletics finally got their one run. It was what could be seen in some corners as a Pyrrhic victory in that Matt Shoemaker went down with a potentially serious injury.

Aaron Sanchez takes the mound for the Blue Jays as the team looks to pay back the Athletics for their season sweep of last year by starting one of our own. He'll go up against Brett Anderson, who (like Shoemaker) is multi-talented and a ticking time-bomb for injury.

Game #22 Toronto Blue Jays (10-12) @ Oakland A's (11-12) - game recap

Brandon Drury finished a triple shy of the cycle in a 10-1 rout over the A's

A day after a win on the back of a masterful gem by Marcus Stroman, who has bounced back very nicely after his worst season statistically. Matt Shoemaker was on the bump today looking to keep his strong start to the season going, aiming for his 4th win of the season. Luke Maile was back behind the plate as Shoemaker's primary catcher. Randal Grichuk was back in CF and Billy McKinney got the start in right field. Could the Blue Jays make it two series wins in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Saturday, April 20, 2019 | 4:07 pm ET

Oakland Coliseum | Oakland, CA

Matt Shoemaker (3-0, 1.75 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, 23K) vs. Mike Fiers (2-1, 7.06ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 16K)

Marcus Stroman threw 8 strong innings as the Blue Jays knocked off the A's 5-1

Today's game marked a trio of reunions. First, Eric Sogard made his first appearance in an opposition uniform since signing with the Brewers as a free agent in 2016. Kendrys Morales will be facing his old teammates for the first time since being traded the day before the season began. Finally, Marco Estrada, who will not play in the series as he is on the IL with more back issue, signed as a free agent this past off-season.If rumors are to be believed, this might be the last series without no Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the lineup. However, the weather might delay his debut to later in the week as the team wants him playing two-three days in a row. Could the Blue Jays snap the seven game losing streak vs. the A's? Here is tonight's game recap.

#21 - Toronto Blue Jays (8-12) at Oakland Athletics (11-10)

Friday, April 19, 2019 | 10:07 pm ET

Oakland Coliseum | Oakland, CA

Marcus Gnomeman (0-3, 1.99, 1.32) vs. Aaron Brooks (2-1, 4.24, 1.12)

PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays open a three-game series in Oakland, coming in after enjoying a pleasant flight after winning three out of four against the then-leaders of the AL Central, Minnesota.

Which Marcus Stroman will show up in today's game? The one who is usually rather peppy out there on the field or the super-slow, disinterested-looking one that was on the mound in his most recent start?

His opponent on the mound, Aaron Brooks, hasn't had much success against the Jays in the past, to say the least. In two starts in 2014 and 2015, he was nuked right off the mound to the tune of a 57.86 ERA. That's right. He was pulled in the first and second innings of these two starts, surrendering a total of 15 earned runs in 2.1 innings. Then again, the only guy on the current Jays roster who has ever faced him is Justin Smoak, who had one hitless at-bat.

Game #20 Toronto Blue Jays (8-12) @ Minnesota Twins (9-7) - game recap

Eric Sogard hit a bases-clearing double in the top of the 4th as the Blue Jays knocked off the Twins

7-4

And so ends the first meeting of the year between the Twins and Blue Jays. After taking the first two of the series, the Blue Jays dropped yesterday's game, and were looking to secure the series win of the season. Ryan Tepera was activated from the disabled list and Javy Guerra was DFA'd to make room.The same lineup as yesterday took the field, except Justin Smoak DH'd and Rowdy Tellez was at 1st base. Clay Buchholz got his second start of the season, and was looking to build on a strong Blue Jays debut five days ago. Could the Blue Jays win their first series of the season? Here is today's game recap.

A good ol' Canadian boy.

Thursday, April 18, 2019 | 1:10 pm ET

Target Field, Minneapolis, MN

Clay Buchholz (0-0, 1.50, 1.00) vs. Michael Pineda (2-0, 3.00, 1.00)

PREAMBLE:

So, that's what a loss looks like. The Toronto Blue Jays look to secure a series win in today's getaway day matinee -- it's an early start with a 12:10 CT game time.

Former grease-bucket turned wise old sage (funny how changing clubhouses change perceptions) Clay Buchholz aims to pick up from where he left off in a good first start and build a resume as useful trade bait. He'll face Michael Pineda who is finally healthy after missing all of 2018.

Freddy Galvis scored the Blue Jays only run in a 4-1 defeat to the Twins

First rain delay of the season. This one was delayed an hour before Mother Nature decided to let the game go on. Eric Sogard was right back at the top of the order after a strong debut yesterday. Randal Grichuk mercifully replaced Socrates Brito in CF, and Billy McKinney got the start in right. Trent Thornton was looking for a bounce-back start after getting knocked around for three innings five days ago. Could the Blue Jays get their first series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

#19 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-11) vs. Minnesota Twins (8-6)

Bert Blyleven

Wednesday, April 17, 2019 | 7:40 pm (stay tuned, rain delay likely)

Target Field | Minneapolis, MN

Trent Thornton (0-1, 4.61, 1.24) vs. Jake Odorizzi (0-2, 6.35, 1.15)

PREAMBLE:

The Toronto Blue Jays have won the first two games of this four-game series and they look to secure their first series win of the season in tonight's third game. The first two games have been rather exciting with late comebacks coming after Teoscar base-running goofs.

Will history repeat itself with another Teoscar brain freeze and a corresponding big hit? Stay tuned!

Trent Thornton looks to get back on the right track as he faces off against Jake Odorizzi on the mound.

Game #18 Toronto Blue Jays (7-11) @ Minnesota Twins (8-6) - game recap

Eric Sogard was 3-5 with a pair of runs scored in his Blue Jays debut as the Blue Jays held on to edge the Twins 6-5

A day after a thrilling come from behind victory that saw Joe Biagini miraculously come up clutch in the 9th, the Blue Jays turned to Aaron Sanchez to continue his strong start to the season. What kind of offensive support would he get? Top of the lineup was Eric Sogard, two years removed from his last decent season. The 8th man in the lineup, Socrates Brito, has yet to record a hit this season and may yet challenge Chris Davis's hitless streak before long. Defensively, things look ok, as long as Teoscar Hernandez doesn't get the yips in LF and Danny Jansen can keep the wild pitches in front of him. Could the Blue Jays pull another rabbit out of the proverbial hat? Here is tonight's game recap.

Harmon Killebrew doing harm on a baseball

Tuesday, April 16, 2019 | 7:40 pm

Target Field | Minneapolis, MN

Aaron Sanchez (1-1, 1.69, 1.38) vs. Kyle Gibson (0-0, 7.71, 2.04)

PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays won a road game! They won despite a TOOTBLAN from Randal Grichuk and a baserunning blunder where a batter (~~Chris~~ Brandon Drury) lost track of the count and led a baserunner (Teoscar Hernandez) into walking to second base when it was actually ball 3. Oh well, Teoscar made up for it with a booming, go-ahead 3-run HR.

Funniest thing for me was seeing Charlie Montoyo in the dugout screaming epithets and kicking around with his foot in his first real public display of emotion. I kinda imagined it going something like this:

Tonight's game 2 features Aaron Sanchez looking to continue his solid start to the season while going up against Kyle Gibson.

Game #17 Toronto Blue Jays (6-11) @ Minnesota Twins (8-5) - game recap

Teoscar Hernandez hit a go-ahead 3-run HR in the top of the 8th as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Twins 5-3

The Blue Jays opened their second road trip of the season against the Minnesota Twins, who came into the game first in the AL central. The Blue Jays got bad news prior to the game as Ryan Borucki was transferred to the 60 day DL, a day after requiring a cortisone shot in his troublesome elbow. Eric Sogard was recalled to replace Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who was demoted after yesterday's case of the yips, but was not in the lineup. The Blue Jays took a big risk tonight with both catchers in the lineup (Maile behind the plate and Jansen as the DH). Matt Shoemaker took a 3-0 record with a sparkling 0.92ERA into today's start. Could the Blue Jays pull out a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Monday, April 15, 2019 | 7:40 pm ET

Target Field | Minneapolis, MN

Matt Shoemaker (3-0, 0.92, 0.71) vs. Martin Perez (1-0, 7.56, 2.40)

PREAMBLE:

Hidey-ho, folks... welcome to yet another episode of "As We Wait For Vlad" while watching the Blue Jays get pounded into the dirt.

This time, the Jays are in Minnesota to take on the Twins after losing 2 of 3 to the first-place Tampa Bay Rays over the weekend. Let's see if changing time zones help the Jays forget the throwing yips they displayed in the past two games. This is the first game of a 7-game road trip that also goes through Oakland.

Matt Shoemaker takes his sterling 3-0, 0.92 record to the mound, with Martin Perez stepping up for the Twins.

This was an up and down week that saw Ken Giles save streak end at 34 consecutive saves over three seasons. More impressive is that Giles didn't exactly have an all-star defense playing behind him in half the saves. The Vladimir Guerrero countdown is on! The Blue Jays top prospect began a rehab assignment this week in Buffalo. Once he's comfortable and playing well, the Blue Jays are expected to call him up, by the end of this month for sure. Guerrero Jr. has been tearing up minor league pitching the past 2 seasons. His season was delayed by an oblique strain. Bo Bichette is also expected to make his MLB debut at some point this season. Soon, there will be reason to hope. Here are ten random thoughts from week 3 of the MLB.

Game #16 Tampa Bay Rays (12-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (5-11) - game recap

Billy McKinney was 3-5 with a pair of runs scored and a pair of RBI in a losing effort as the Rays doubled up on the Blue Jays 8-4

After a hard-fought victory over the Rays, the Blue Jays were going for their first series win over the AL East rivals in 20 months.The last time the Blue Jays won a series over the Rays was August 14-18, 2017 when the Blue Jays took three of four from TB. Today's starter Marcus Stroman got one of the wins in that series. Socrates Brito was back in the lineup, looking for his first hit in a Blue Jays uniform. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was at second base, hoping not to screw up. Could the Blue Jays end the brief home stand on a high? Here is today's game recap.

Stro on the mound, series on the line. #LetsGoBlueJays pic.twitter.com/cTRL45tzUF
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) April 14, 2019

Let's go get that series win. https://t.co/IUPJpr6bEh #RaysUp pic.twitter.com/FUvVTneNDk
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) April 14, 2019

This is your game thread.

Saturday, April 13, 2019

Game #15 Tampa Bay Rays (11-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (5-10) - game recap

Clay Buchholz threw 6 strong innings in his Blue Jays debut as the Blue Jays knocked off the Rays

3-1

After a rough outing for the pitchers yesterday, Clay Buchholz made his Blue Jays regular season debut after missing the 1st couple of turns with an elbow issue. The former 2-time all-star is looking to build on a strong 2018 campaign where he was 7-2 with a solid 2.08ERA in 16 starts with the Diamondbacks. His opponent, Blake Snell, won the Cy Young last season. Could the Blue Jays get a hit today? Here is today's game recap

Game #15- Tampa Bay Rays (11-3) Vs Toronto Blue Jays ( 4-10)

Well it seems with all the sports on television today, the Jays are regulated to Sportsnet 360.

Here's your line ups for to days Game.

Galvis moves into the leadoff spot and Buchholz makes his season debut today! #LetsGoBlueJays pic.twitter.com/rQJRIN5OIZ
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) April 13, 2019

Going for our fifth straight series win. https://t.co/BQAy44V4Fp #RaysUp pic.twitter.com/ZYBBJT554R
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) April 13, 2019

Enjoy today's games
This is your game thread.
Thhhpt Ack.

Friday, April 12, 2019

Game #14 Tampa Bay Rays (11-3) @ Toronto Blue Jays (4-10) - game recap

Brandon Lowe cracked a pair of 2 run HR as the Rays defeated the Blue Jays 11-7

The Blue Jays returned home after the first road trip of the season facing the top team in the AL East, the Tampa Bay Rays who have a +32 run differential. By contrast, the Blue Jays have a run differential of -4. Last season, the Rays won the season series 13-6. The Blue Jays were facing a "starter" with Ryne Stanek only expected to pitch the first couple of innings. Charlie Montoyo was the Rays bench coach last season. Perhaps he has some insight on how to beat this juggernaut. Could the Blue Jays pull off the upset? Here is tonight's game recap.

Friday April 12, 2019 | 7:07 pm

Rogers Centre | Toronto, ON

Thornton (0-1, 1.69 ERA) vs. Stanek (0-0, 1.50 ERA)

PREAMBLE:

No one made a thread, game starts in 10.

NOTES:

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. just went deep for the AAA Buffalo Bisons. He’s 2-for-2 with a double, home run and walk.

The #BlueJays recently started Alen Hanson at first base in a game.
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) April 12, 2019

LINEUPS:

This is your "I give up" game thread.

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Game #13 Toronto Blue Jays (4-9) @ Boston Red Sox (4-9) - game recap

Freddy Galvis was 4-4 at the plate, including a go-ahead solo HR in the top of the 8th in a losing effort, as the Red Sox walked off the Blue Jays 7-6

The Red Sox and Blue Jays completed their mini two game series after a rare off day between games in the event that there had been increment weather Tuesday. After a strong game Tuesday that saw the Blue Jays knock around Chris Salre, the Blue Jays were up against Nathan Eovaldi, acquired at last years's trade deadline and a key contributor to the Red Sox winning last year's World Series, The last time the Blue Jays swept the Red Sox in a series was June 12-14. Justin Smoak had 4 hits that series. Speaking of Smoak, he and Danny Jansen returned to the lineup after missing the last game with neck stiffness. Aaron Sanchez was on the mound looking to lead his team to victory. Here is today's game recap.

Thursday, April 11, 2019

7:10pm @ the pinball machine, Massholia

Aaron Sanchez RHP (1-1 11 IP 1.64 ERA 1.18 WHIP 11K)

Nathan Eovaldi RHP (0-0 10 IP 8.10 ERA 1.80 WHIP 6K)

Game #12 Toronto Blue Jays (4-8) @ Boston Red Sox (3-9) - game recap

Billy McKinney was 2-3 with a pair of runs scored as the Blue Jays knocked off the Red Sox 7-5

Stiff test today facing the defending World Series Champions. Dustin Pedroia started his first game in the majors since May 29th, 2018. The Red Sox 2nd baseman has missed the bulk of the last 2 seasons, although he did play three more games than Tulo last season. Neck injuries continue to plague the Blue Jays with Justin Smoak and Luke Maile both scratched today with neck stiffness. Perhaps next road trip, the Blue Jays need to bring their own pillows. Matt Shoemaker was looking to continue his strong start to the season. Shoemaker has thrown 14 shutout innings heading into today's tilt. Could the Blue Jays snap the four-game skid and ruin the Red Sox WS celey and home opener? Here is today's game recap.

Tuesday, April 9, 2019

2:05pm @ the pinball machine, Massholia

Matt Shoemaker RHP (2-0 14 IP 0.00 ERA 0.50 WHIP 15K)

Chris Sale LHP (0-2 9IP 8.00 ERA 1.44 WHIP 5K)

Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 2: April 1-7

The first full week of baseball is now in the books. The Blue jays are on a record low pace offensively (51 hits through 9 games was 6 hits lower than in 1981 and 2017 when the blue jays managed 57 hits through nine games). The Blue Jays have been no-hit through at least 5 innings in 4 of the first 9 games, including taking until the 9th inning to get their first hit on Friday. Heck, they became only the 4th team ever in the history of the MLB to have four straight games of being struck out 13+ times. Thank god the pitching has been lights out. The starting pitchers had a 24 inning shutout streak through the first four starts until Sean Reid-Foley got lit up for 5 runs on 4 hits.. Marcus Stroman has rebounded nicely after a miserable start to 2018 that saw his ERA above 8.00 at one point. Stroman's still looking for his first win because he has gotten next to no run support in any of his starts.The Blue Jays may be breaking more dubious offensive records. Stay tuned. Here are ten random thoughts from week 2 of the MLB.

Game #11 Toronto Blue Jays (3-8) @ Cleveland Indians (6-3) - game recap

Indians righty Mike Clevinger struck out 10 Blue Jays in a 3-1 victory over the Blue Jays

Well, not much to say in the preamble other than to say this might be the worst Blue Jays start I've witnessed in 27 years of watching this team. I started watching the Blue Jays in the 1992 championship season. Today, the Blue Jays try to avoid being swept for the first time this season. Somehow they split the series series against Detroit and they had their only decent offensive output in the final game against Baltimore. This series has been like watching an MLB team playing a double A team. Every game Blue Jays are striking out at least once an inning. As of Friday's game, they had set a new record for fewest hits in the first 9 games, managing 6 fewer hits than the previous low of 57. You have to give the fans something to hang their hat on. Anyway, Marcus Stroman got his third start of the season and was looking to keep the good run by the starters going. Here is today's game recap.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysmLA5TqbIY

Saturday, April 7, 2019 | 1:07 pm

Progressive Field | Cleveland, OH

Marcus Stroman (0-1, 1.42 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) vs. Mike Clevinger (0-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.57 WHIP)

Game #10 Toronto Blue Jays (3-7) @ Cleveland Indians (5-3) - game recap

Indians righty Carlos Carrasco struck out 12 Blue Jays batters as the Blue Jays lost their 3rd straight game in a 7-2 defeat

After dropping the first two games of this series, the Blue Jays were looking to get back on track and get back to winning. I guess Charlie Montoya reads my game recaps because he had the red-hot Freddy Galvis batting leadoff. Just five of the nine batters in today's lineup were batting above .200, or the Mendoza line: Galvis, Rowdy Tellez, Justin Smoak, Teoscar Hernandez and Alen Hanson. Thomas Pannone got the spot start in place of the injured Clay Richards. Could the Blue Jays snap the losing streak? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

The Indians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Carlos Santana singled home Greg Allen
The Indians added a run in the bottom of the 3rd on a bases loaded walk by Hanley Ramirez that forced in Eric Stamets
A batter later, Jake Bauers singled home Jose Ramirez and Jordan Luplow
Thomas Pannone pitching line: 2.2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 6K 60 pitches (37 for strikes)
The Blue Jays got on the board in the top of the 5th as Freddy Galvis golfed a moonshot to right-center
Three batters later, Randal Grichuk doubled scoring Teoscar Hernandez
Carlos Carrasco pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 12K 90 pitches (61 for strikes)
The Indians added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Luplow scored on a wilds pitch
Two batters later, Santana scored on a fielder's choice
The Indians added another run on a Danny Jansen throwing error trying to catch Jose Ramirez stealing 3rd. Ramirez easily scored on the wild throw
Final score: Indians 7 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

Thomas Pannone's spot start went about as well as the one by SRF five days ago. The Blue Jays southpaw was lit up to the tune of 4 runs on five hits and a pair of walks (one with the bases loaded). If Clay Richards is not ready, perhaps Sam Gaviglio might get a shot at a spot start.
This was the second best offensive output of the season. They reached double digits in hits for the second time this season, but they scored three more runs than the game against Baltimore on Wednesday.
Three of the runs scored by the Indians were the results of self-inflict errors (bases loaded walk, wild pitch and throwing error). These mistakes can't happen with an offence that's going to struggle to score runs
Up next, the Blue Jays try to avoid their first series sweep of the season as ace Marcus Stroman takes the ball looking for his first win of the season. The Blue Jays will be in tough vs. Mike Clevinger, who struck out 12 in his last start.

9. Toronto Blue Jays (3-6) @ Cleveland Indians (4-3) / WTFJITH

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysmLA5TqbIY

Saturday, April 6, 2019 | 4:10 pm

Progressive Field | Cleveland, OH

Thomas Pannone (0-1, 1.20 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) vs. Carlos Carrasco (0-1, 12.46 ERA, 2.54 WHIP)

Game #9 Toronto Blue Jays (3-6) @ Cleveland Indians (4-3) - game recap

Freddy Galvis provided the Blue Jays only offence on a 2 run bomb to right as the Indians edged the Blue Jays 3-2

In 4 of the first 8 games, the opposing pitcher has taken a no-hitter into the 5th inning. Last night, it took until the 9th for the Blue Jays to manage a hit. Trent Thornton got his second spot start of the season in place of the injured Ryan Borucki. I still find it a bit odd that Charlie Montoya is placing his best hitters Richard Urena and Freddy Galvis so low in the lineup. Could the Blue Jays get a hit before inning 5? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

The Indians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Kevin Plawecki smacked a screaming line drive over the left field wall
The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Freddy Galvis crushed a 2-run bomb to right also scoring Rowdy Tellez
The Indians tied the game in the bottom of the 5th as Max Moroff doubled home Hanley Ramirez
Trent Thornton pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 2BB 7K 92 pitches (52 for strikes)
Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 2H 2R (both earned) 2BB 9K 91 pitches (52 for strikes)
Carlos Santana launched a walk-off HR to left-center in the bottom of the 9th
Final score: Indians 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

The baseball Beeb stonewalled the Blue Jays, scattering a trio of hits (one of which was a 2 run blast), walked a pair and struck out nine over 6 masterful innings. Blue Jays starter Trent Thornton was equally effective, save for allowing an extra hit and striking out 2 fewer batters
The MLB umpires got it completely wrong with one out in the bottom of the 8th when Jose Ramirez was called safe stealing 2nd base (upheld upon replay). Ramirez tried to evade the tag by Freddy Galvis by pulling his hand away, but the Blue Jays 2B clearly tagged Ramirez in the chest. Luckily Blue Jays reliever Daniel Hudson retired the next two batters. Had Ramirez scored and that had been the winning run, I fully expect the Blue Jays would have filed for the game to have been played under protest. What's the point of instant replay if you're not going to get the call right?
Why are Freddy Galvis and Richard Urena, the Blue Jays best hitters BY FAR batting 7th and 8th in the lineup? They should be batting 3rd and cleanup respectively
The offensive output was decidedly worse than yesterday. At least yesterday the Blue Jays were able to draw a bunch of walks.
Up next, the Blue Jays attempt to snap the 2 game losing streak. Southpaw Thomas Pannone gets the spot start in favor of the injured Clay Richards. Pannone tossed four scoreless innings five days ago after SRF got lit up to the tune of 5 runs (three earned) on 4 hits and a pair of walks. The Indians will counter with righty Carlos Carrasco, who was lit up in his first start of the season, giving up 6 runs on 10 hits.

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