Saturday, August 31, 2019

Game #137 Houston Astros (88-49) @ Toronto Blue Jays (55-82) - game recap

Cavan Biggio was 2-3 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI as the Blue Jays came from behind to beat the Astros 6-4

After a loss to the Astros last night, the Blue Jays turned to veteran righty Clay Buchholz, who's coming off his best start in a blue Jays uniform, firing 6 strong innings in his first start after missing 2+ months with a grade II strain of his right teres major muscle. The Astros countered with lefty Framber Valdez, who's had a subpar season to date and is just back from AAA-ball. Vlad got the half day off, serving as the DH with Brandon Drury at the hot corner. Rowdy Tellez got the start at 1B. It looks like the Blue Jays will take a long look at him in September. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after Reese McGuire started last night. Could the Blue Jays move a win closer to avoiding 100 losses? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights: 
  • The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer scored on a sac fly by Alex Bregman
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 3rd as Randal Grichuk singled home Cavan Biggio
  • A batter later, Teoscar Hernandez smacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen also scoring Grichuk
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 4th as Biggio cranked a 2-run HR to right also scoring Bo Bichette
  • The Astros got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Yuli Gurriel doubled scoring Yordan Alvarez and Bregman
  • Clay Buchholz pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 5BB 3K 83 pitches (50 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Biggio doubled home Bichette
  • Framer Valdez pitching line: 5.2IP 9H 6R (all earned) 3BB 5K 103 pitches (64 for strikes)
  • The Astros got one back in the top of the 7th on a bases loaded walk by Bregman that forced in Martin Maldanado.
  • Ken Giles struck out the side in a perfect 9th for his 18th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 6 Astros 4
My Take:
  • A bit of a weird play in the bottom of the 3rd when Brandon Drury was called out for the ball hitting him while he was in the batter's box. He probably would have been thrown out anyway by Astros catcher Martin Maldanado. Still, not a play you see every day
  • Clay Buchholz battled his way through 5.2 innings, allowing 2 runs on three hits, while walking 5 and striking out 3. His command was not sharp today against a patient Astros lineup. He made enough pitches to get into the 6th inning. It was his first win in a Blue Jays uniform
  • The bullpen makes me nervous in getting to Ken Giles. 
  • Cavan Biggio (2-3, 2 runs scored, 3RBI, 1 walk), Bo Bichette (2-5, 2 runs scored), Teoscar Hernandez (2-run HR), and Brandon Drury (2-3, walk) all had good days at the plate
  • Everyone except Derek Fisher got on base at least one and all but Fisher and Rowdy Tellez had at least one hit.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays look to end the home stand with a winning record and take two of three from the mighty Astros. Justin Verlander starts for the Astros, while Wilmer Font will open for the Blue Jays

#137 - Houston Astros (88-48) vs. Toronto Blue Jays (54-82)



Saturday, August 31, 2019 | 3:07 pm ET
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Framber Valdez (4-6, 5.14, 1.54) vs. Clay Buchholz (0-3, 5.87, 1.34)


PREAMBLE:

Ok, gather around, folks... time for another game threat.


After losing last night's series opener to the Houston Astros, the Blue Jays look to get back on the winning track to even up the series.

Clay Buchholz, after being put back together by duct tape, some wires, cotton balls, eyeglasses frame and a soldering iron, makes his second start since coming back from the IL.  Likewise, Framber Valdez is making his second start after his call up to take the place of Aaron Sanchez, who has been felled by a pectoral injury.


Friday, August 30, 2019

Game #136 Houston Astros (88-48) @ Toronto Blue Jays (54-82) - game recap

George Springer was 2-4 with 2 runs scored and 4 RBI to lead the Astros to a 7-4 victory over the Blue Jays

After a day off Wednesday, the Blue Jays began a three game series against Aaron Sanchez (who won't pitch due to a pectoral injury that has him on the IL), Joe Biagini, Roberto Osuna and the AL West leading Houston Astros. Trent Thornton got the start against Astros lefty Wade Miley, who is vying for the 4th starter's spot in the playoffs. Brandon Drury got the start at 1B with Justin Smoak being given the half-day off with the DH assignment tonight. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays steal a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

#136 - Houston Astros (87-48) at Toronto Blue Jays (54-81)



Friday, August 30, 2019 | 7:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Wade Miley (13-4, 3.13, 1.20) vs. Trent Thornton (4-8, 5.34, 1.52)


PREAMBLE:

Mailing it in tonight, folks.  Gonna be short and sweet.

Astros = super good
Blue Jays = not great

Jays offer up Trent Thornton as tonight's sacrificial lamb to the Astros slaughter.  Wade Miley goes for the Astros and he gud.  Very gud this year.  Though he has a career 2-7, 4.47 lifetime against the Jays in 10 starts.


Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Game #135 Atlanta Braves (81-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (54-81) - game recap

Matt Joyce was 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 2RBI in a 9-4 victory over the Blue Jays

After a solid 3-1 victory last night that was chalk full of Canadian content (Calgaryan Mike Soroka started for the Braves and threw 6 innings. Freddie Freeman.who's parents are Canadian went 0-3, Josh Donaldson made his long-awaited return to Toronto just over a year after the trade that sent him to Cleveland. Dosh went 0-4. Ex-Blue Jays trainers George Poulis and Mike Frostad returned to Toronto as well, but not for the first time, and of course, Alex Antropolous, who spear headed the 2015 and 2016 Blue Jays teams that made it as far as the ALCS were back in town. Vlad, who was born in Montreal and he went 2-4 with an RBI). Tonight, the Blue Jays were going for the sweep in the mini 2-game series with the rematch in Atlanta starting next Monday. Jacob Waguespack got the start for the Blue Jays. He is one of just 2 true and reliable starters in the rotation at this point (Trent Thornton being the other). Mike Foltynewicz started for the Braves. Lineup was pretty similar to last night, except Justin Smoak was at 1B (DH last night), Rowdy Tellez was DH (1B last night) and Brandon Drury was in LF with Teo in CF and Grichuk in RF. Danny Jansen got the start behind the plate after a night off last night. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row vs. the Braves? Here is tonight's game recap.

#135 - Atlanta Bringers of Rain (80-54) at Toronto Blue Jays (54-80)



Wednesday, August 28, 2019 | 7:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Mike Foltynewicz (4-5, 5.68, 1.40) vs. Jacob Waguespack (4-1, 3.63, 1.17)


PREAMBLE:

After winning the opener of a two-game series against the Braves last night, the Blue Jays look to accomplish a mini-sweep in tonight's finale.  They had lost 9 in a row against National League teams before last night's win and are 3-14 overall on the season in interleague play.

Staff ace Jacob Waguespack takes the ball for the Jays as he looks to continue a string of solid performances, having gone 3-0, 1.93 in his last five outings, including a 7-inning, 1-hit performance against the Dodgers last week.  He'll go up against Mike Foltynewicz, who is 2-0, 5.40 in three appearances against the Jays.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Game #134 Atlanta Braves (80-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (54-80) - game recap

Justin Smoak was 2-3, including a solo HR to help lead the Blue Jays to a 3-1 win over the Braves

After a suboptimal road trip that saw the Blue Jays win just once in 6 tries, the Blue Jays returned home to start a week of reunions. Tonight, Josh Donaldson made his return to Toronto, playing in the 6ix for the 1st time since the 2018 trade deadline deal to Cleveland (he signed with Atlanta in the off-season. Tonight's starter for the Braves was Canadian righty Mike Soroka. Freddie Freeman, who's parents are Canadian is also playing in this series, as is Vlad (born in Montreal when his father was playing for the Expos. Alex Antropolous, who was largely responsible for building the 2015 and 2016 Blue Jays teams, is also back in town. Tonight, the Blue Jays had another bullpen day with Wilmer Font getting the ball first. The infield of the future (and present) was playing tonight with Rowdy Tellez at 1B, Cavan Biggio at 2B, Bo Bichette at SS and Vlad occupying the hot corner. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays snap the 1 game losing streak? Here is tonight's game  recap.

#134 - Atlanta A.A. Anthopoulos (80-53) vs. Toronto Blue Jays (53-80)



Tuesday, August 27, 2019 | 7:07 pm
The SkyDome | Toronto, Ontario

Mike Soroka (10-2, 2.41, 1.08) vs. Wilmer Font (opener, 1-1, 2.95, 1.13)


PREAMBLE:

The Toronto Blue Jays return home after a West Coast road trip where things didn't exactly unfold the Jays' way for the most part.  After a day off, they face the Atlanta Braves in an interleague matchup that sees Oakville's hero return to Toronto for the second time as an opposing executive since he left following the 2015 season.

Wilmer Font will get things started for the Jays in a bullpen day.  No pressure, fellas... you're only going up against Mike Soroka who is having a huge break-out season and is second in the NL in ERA.  It's Soroka's second start against the Jays; he gave up 4 runs in 4.2 innings in his final start of 2018 before being shut down with shoulder inflammation.


Monday, August 26, 2019

Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 21 - August 19-25


The Blue Jays faced a stiff test to start their final west coast of the season. On Tuesday, the Blue Jays hitters faced one of the premier pitchers in the game in Clayton Kershaw. Bo Bichette homered twice off the veteran lefty, who wasn't at his best, but still prevailed thanks to the Dodgers putting up 16 runs against Blue Jays pitchers, which included backup infielder Richard Urena pitching the bottom of the 8th. The next day, the Blue Jays faced one of the better young arms in the game, Walker Buehler, who held the Blue Jays to 5 hits over 7 shutout innings. Rowdy Tellez became an unlikely hero, hitting a game-tying HR, which I called in the game thread, off Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen. The HR only delayed the inevitable as the Dodgers big bats were due up in the bottom half of the inning. Max Muncy ended it with his 33rd HR of the season. Charlie Montoyo made some curious moves towards the end of the game. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who did not start the game as a precaution with his knee, which he injured the weekend prior, pinch hit in the top of the 8th for the pitcher and and was part of a double switch in the 8th to put him at 3B and removed Cavan Biggio and his bat from the game. In the top of the 10th, Vlad drew a walk and was promptly removed for a pinch runner. Why not just let Vlad stay in the game. Further, why do the double switch? The pitcher's spot probably wouldn't have come up for an inning or two the way the Blue Jays were swinging the bat that day anyway. The sweep was completed in epic fashion the next day in a blown save by temporary closer Derek Law, who was filling in for Ken Giles, who was away on paternity leave. Law should not be used as closer anymore this season. He is not consistent enough outing to outing. It should be closer by committee when Giles is unavailable, whether it be needing a day off or injury.  The Blue Jays lost two of three to their expansion cousins, to finish the road trip with a disappointing 1-5 record. Bo Bichette (see point 8) was one of the few bright spots in the Blue Jays lineup this week.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Game #133 Toronto Blue Jays (53-80) @ Seattle Mariners (56-75) - game recap

Clay Buchholz threw 6 strong innings in his return from the 60 day IL in a 3-1 loss to the Mariners

Here we are 30 games, including today left in the schedule. Clay Buchholz came off the IL to make this start. Ken Giles was back after a three day paternity leave. Righties Justin Shafer and Brock Stewart were sent to Buffalo to make room on the roster. Vlad got the half day off serving as the DH with Brandon Drury at the hot corner. Rowdy Tellez got the start at 1B and Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays end the final west coast wing of the season with a victory? Here is today's game recap.

Game #133 - Toronto Blue Jays (53-79) vs Seattle Mariners (55-75)



Rather than blather on and on, let's simply look at a pic or two and get straight to the point!


A selection of Topps Heritage and Archives cards of Jays from the last 16 years

These three cards are interesting because they remind us that baseball is, in a way, sort of random.  Phelps was a can't miss power hitter who ended up missing.  Carpenter was a mediocre starter for the Jays for a number of years before he was given up on, only to become a star once he left.  I was fully on board with letting him go.  Lawrie set the world on fire when he came up with the Jays but he was never able to keep it together and he ended up flaming out.

I've spent a lot of years reading Jays blogs and sites, as well as various other sources, and one of the common themes has been the failure of great, can't miss prospects.  It's like this for every team.  What does this mean?  It's all a crap-shoot, there's no point trying to predict what will happen, and we might as well not watch in the first place.  Why bother when we know the Jays will ultimately fail?

I absolutely, steadfastly, refuse to watch Blue Jays baseball for at least three years!  I won't watch any games on cable, satellite, MLB.TV, at sports bars, any illegal streams, or any other method yet to be devised.  I absolutely, 100% refuse to listen to games either.  I will remain resolute in my convictions and will even avoid reading about the Jays on any form of printed or electronic media.  

I cannot be induced, by any means, to change my mind!  mk, please shut down the site - this will be the last post.  It's been a good run but it's time to close it down.  I urge all readers to join me and stay away in droves!  Don't give even one more cent of your hard earned money to the Blue Jays, Rogers Media, or any other entity that benefits from Blue Jays baseball.

I will paste in the lineups below only to fulfill my final obligations, and will even add some daily commentary, due to contractual reasons.  However, this is goodbye.  Goodbye Forever!



So...............Jayssssssssssssss Wiiiiinnnnnnnnnnnnn!  Who saw that coming?  I guess anything can happen in baseball.


Go Jays!

Game #132 Toronto Blue Jays (53-79) @ Seattle Mariners (55-75) - game recap

Bo Bichette was 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI to lead the Blue Jays to a 7-5 victory over the Mariners 

After a difficult to watch 7-4 loss where where every Blue Jay but Brandon Drury had at least one hit, Reese McGuire had 2 balls squeak between his legs directly leading to 2 runs and the pitching was so-so at best, the Blue Jays turned to Wilmer Font as the opener tonight. Cavan Biggio was back and hitting in the #2 hole. Vlad was back in the field after a half-day off as DH yesterday (Rowdy Tellez was the DH tonight). Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after sitting out the opener of this series yesterday. Could the blue Jays snap the 6 game losing streak? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:
  • The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Kyle Seagar singled home Mallex Smith and JP Crawford
  • Wilmer Font pitching line: 1IP 2H 2R (both earned) 1BB 1K 33 pitches (18 for strikes); Brock Stewart pitched the next 5 innings, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Teoscar Hernandez smashed a solo blast to left-center
  • Three batters later, Bo Bichette slammed a solo bomb to dead center
  • The Mariners retook the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Omar Narvaez smashed a 3-run bomb to right-center also scoring Seagar and Crawford
  • Felix Hernandez pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 88 pitches (54 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Billy McKinney doubled home Hernandez
  • Two batters later Bichette singled scoring McKinney
  • Two batters later, Bichette scored on a ground out by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • A batter later, Randal Grichuk doubled home Cavan Biggio
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Bichette doubled home Danny Jansen
  • Derek Law got the final 5 outs for his 4th save of the season. Thank god #100milesGiles is expected back tomorrow from paternity leave
  • Final score: Blue Jays 7 Mariners 5
My Take:
  • As will be the case more often than not the remainder of the season, the Blue Jays used an opener to get through the first inning, followed by a longer reliever to eat up the next several innings. One can question why the Blue Jays don't just use the reliever as the starter in the first place. One argument is getting through the tough part of the lineup and giving the long man a more favorable part of the lineup. However, in today's MLB, the best hitters can hit anybody. Font and Stewart combined to allow 5 runs on 9 hits while walking 2 batters and striking out 5.
  • Bo Bichette continues to shine. In his 25th career games, he had another 3 hits, 3 RBI and scored twice. He also threw out Daniel Vogelbach in the 8th for a huge out, because if he had scored it would have been a 1-run lead with 1 out and runners on 1st and 2nd with the speedy Mallex Smith at the plate.
  • Teoscar Hernandez also had a good day at the plate, drawing 2 walks, hitting a solo HR and scoring a second time later in the game
  • Derek Law made things WAY more interesting than they had to be. He is not Ken Giles, but he's probably the second best closing option the Blue Jays have when Giles is not available.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for the season series split and the series win in Seattle. Clay Buchholz is expected to be activated off the 60 day IL (Ryan Tepera is expected to come off the IL shortly after the team returns to Toronto. He and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. will probably be the only Blue Jays to return from the IL this season). The Mariners will counter with lefty Marco Gonzalez

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Game #132 - Toronto Blue Jays (55-74) @ Seattle Mariners (55-74)



Blue Jays and Mariners Opening Game Tickets



I wrote the game threats for a Jays/Rangers series last year and was able to get a lot of mileage out of everyone's ongoing hatred for that squad.  As long as Odor remains in place (I'm sure he'll be out of the league soon, though) the hatred will burn with unparalleled fury:


Voldemort performs the Avada Kedavra curse on Roughned Odor of the Texas Rangers

Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (52-79) @ Seattle Mariners (55-74) - game recap

Teoscar Hernandez drove in a pair of runs in a losing effort as the Mariners came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-4

After being swept by the LA Dodgers, the Blue Jays made their annual trip to Seattle to face a Mariners team that took 2 of 3 in Toronto a week ago. Trent Thornton got the start against Mariners lefty Justus Sheffield. Happy birthday to Billy McKinney, who got the day off as a Bday present. Cavan Biggio was moved to the 7th spot in the lineup with Derek Fisher batting 2nd. Vlad got the half day off, serving as the DH tonight. Justin Smoak was also back at 1B after 2 days in a row off. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5 game losing streak? Here is tonight's game recap.

Friday, August 23, 2019

Game #131 - Toronto Blue Jays (52-78) @ Seattle Mariners (54-74)


Exhibition Stadium

Kingdome


The Jays have been quite bad this year but now that a lot of the flotsam and jetsam has been cleared out in favour of the youngsters, they're quite tolerable to watch.  If you squint a bit it's not difficult to see a bright future for our squad.  "If things fall just right" the Jays may be back in contention for a wildcard spot in a couple of years.

Game #130 Toronto Blue Jays (52-78) @ LA Dodgers (85-44) - game recap

Jacob Waguespack threw 7 shutout innings in a losing effort as the LA Dodgers came from behind in the 9th to edge the Blue Jays 3-2

As expected, the Blue Jays lost the first two games of this series to the juggernaut LA Dodgers, who may be the best all-around team in the majors. The first game wasn't close (a 19-3 drubbing that saw all the big bats in the Dodgers lineup come up big. Russell Martin even played the final 2 innings at 3B and got 2AB. Richard Urena pitched the 8th for the Blue Jays. The second game was much closer and included a blown save by Kenley Jansen off an unlikely HR by Rowdy Tellez. Tonight, The Blue Jays turned to Jacob Waguespack to try and avoid the series sweep and halt the 4-game losing streak. Vlad was back in the starting lineup after most of the day off yesterday, except for 2AB's and 1 2 innings in the field. Ken Giles was placed on paternity leave with  Danny Jansen was also back behind the plate after a complete day off yesterday. Rowdy Tellez got his second straight start at 1B, presumably as a reward for the last gasp heroics to briefly delay the loss. Could the Blue Jays escape LA with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Game #130 - Toronto Blue Jays (52-77) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (84-44)

Thu, Aug 22 • 10:10 PM EDT
At Dodger Stadium
Jacob Waguespack vs Kenta Maeda

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (52-77) @ LA Dodgers (84-44) - game recap

Max Muncy hit a walk-off HR in the bottom of the 10th as the Dodgers edged the Blue Jays 2-1

After a thorough beat down against one of the premier pitchers and top starter of this decade (hat tip to Tom Jackson on the leg work) Clayton Kershaw and the juggernaut offence that features Cody Bellinger, who is neck and neck with Christian Yelich for the NL MVP this season, and Joc Pederson, who faced off against Vlad in the HR derby this year in an epic round that featured a COMBINED 79 HR between two of the better young guns in the game that Vlad narrowly won when he hit 2 in 3 tries in the second OT round. Tonight, the Dodgers sent one of the game's best young righties in Walker Buehler to the mound. Buehler is 10-3 on the season with a 3.31 ERA. The Blue Jays had their second straight bullpen day with Wilmer Font serving as the opener, with Sammy G expected to pitch next. A few lineup changes for tonight. Vlad was given the day off after facing Kershaw yesterday (perhaps playing him yesterday wasn't wise, but then again I don't trust the HPD/Training staff with a paper cut). Billy McKinney also got the start in LF, in place of Derek Fisher, who homered off Kershaw last night. Rowdy Tellez got the start at 1B (it will be interesting to see in the final 6 weeks of the season how Montoyo splits the starts at 1B. Personally, I think Tellez should get more of the starts, but he has to play well and earn the playing time). Finally, Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate after Danny Jansen had a long day behind the plate with the Dodgers pummeling the relievers last night. Will the Blue Jays have better luck against Buehler? Here is tonight's game recap.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Game #129 - Toronto Blue Jays (52-76) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (83-44)


Wed, Aug 21 • 10:10 PM EDT
At Dodger Stadium
Wilmer Font et al vs Walker Buehler

Game #128 Toronto Blue Jays (52-76) @ LA Dodgers (83-44) - game recap

Cody Bellinger was 2-3 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI in a 16-3 rout over the Blue Jays 

The Blue Jays kicked off their final west coast swing and final interleague series of the season tonight against one of the favorites for the World Series this year in the LA Dodgers. Tonight, Blue Jays batters faced lefty Clayton Kerhaw, who remains one of the premier pitchers in the MLB. He brings a 12-2 record with a solid 2.63ERA into tonight's game. The Blue Jays have opted to go with lefty Buddy Boshers as an "opener" with righty Sean Reid-Foley pitching the bulk of the innings tonight. Vlad was in the lineup after sitting out the finale of the homestand Sunday. Cavan Biggio got the day off with Brandon Drury getting the start at 2nd base. Could the Blue Jays beat one of the best pitchers in the game? Here is tonight's game recap.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Game #128 - Toronto Blue Jays (52-75) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (82-44)

Clayton Kershaw has gone 6 innings in each of his 21 starts in 2019
Around this time last year, talk in Dodger-land revolved around the health of ace Clayton Kershaw. He had missed at least a month of game action in each of the last 3 seasons, with various shoulder and back issues. In 2018, his ERA was the highest of his career (2.73), supported by peripherals (FIP and xFIP of 3.19) and the lowest strikeout rate of his career (8.65 K/9). His struggles can more or less be tied to a loss in velocity on his heater. Brooks Baseball shows that he lost 3 MPH on his four-seamer from his dominant run as the best pitcher in baseball. That velocity has yet to come back, and it probably never will.

Fast forward to spring of 2019, and concerns still lingered. He had to be shut down with shoulder inflammation upon his arrival in camp, an issue that seemingly bothers every pitcher at some point in their career. Kershaw admitted to being anxious about the shoulder in camp in an article from Bill Plunkett of The Orange-County Register. Injuries and diminished velocity hit Kershaw, as he was shut down for most of the spring and did not start the year until late April. Concerns grew around the industry, and pundits were quick to write Kershaw off. Reports of his demise appear to have been a bit premature, as Kershaw is enjoying a healthy 2019 in what has been his most effective since 2016.

Part of his resurgence has come from attacking hitters with a first strike fastball and a modified slider, chronicled in a great piece written by Ben Lindbergh of The Ringer. In his last couple starts it has been vintage Kershaw, with 9 or more strikeouts in 4 of his last 6 six starts. Even with his fastball peaking at 92 MPH - he is able to generate whiffs with his slider, while locating the curve and four-seamer with as much precision as ever. This version of Kershaw could be his most impressive yet - in a year with a juiced baseball, and more home-runs than ever - he has managed to keep the ball in the park. His 0.99 HR/9 and 13% HR/FB rate could point to negative regression, though I think it is a case of a veteran pitcher learning to adapt his arsenal to his skill set and get batters out. I fear that his velocity may never return, though this season has proved he can still be a valuable pitcher while averaging 90 MPH.

In other Dodger news, they are still unsure what the plan is for top prospect Gavin Lux. He has been absolutely raking in AAA this year, though the PCL numbers are a tad inflated. He is currently hitting .415 in AAA, and could slot in nicely at second base in September. If he gets the opportunity, he could hit his way onto the postseason roster and slot in at second base. Chris Taylor is set to return soon from a broken forearm, which could cloud the picture. After a lack of moves at the deadline (the big splash being LOOGY Adam Kolarek from the Rays) it makes sense to add him and Dustin May into the picture as a way of adding from within the organization.


In Jays news, it appears Vladdy will suit up at 3rd and bat third. A little surprised by this, as it seems like an easy time to give him an extra day or two off just to be careful with his workload. I checked Brandon Drury's career splits vsLHP and vsRHP and there wasn't much of a seperation (85 wRC+ vs LHP and 89 vs RHP).

Urena is called up..

Chavez Ravine wouldn't be a bad spot to be. Seriously debated going for the series.
Obligatory Nate Pearson in Buffalo clip

LINE-UPS 



This is your game threat: 'Greatest Pitcher of our Generation' edition. 

Monday, August 19, 2019

Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 20: August 12-18


The Blue Jays wrapped up their marathon 20 games in 20 days set with a trio of games against the Texas Rangers. By all rights, the Blue Jays could have mailed it in this week citing fatigue from so many games in a row. Instead, the Blue Jays took 2 of three from Texas, outscoring the Rangers 25-11, including a 3-0 shutout and a 19-4 blowout in which the Rangers used a position player to pitch (Jeff Mathis). Everyone had at least one hit in the rout. All but Derek Fisher had at least one extra base hit. The next day, Blue Jays pitchers held Rangers batters to 5 hits and 5 walks in a 3-0 shutout win. Clearly everyone was understandably tired Wednesday and the Blue Jays just didn't have enough left in them to rally late. Then, the expansion cousin Seattle Mariners rolled into town. Both teams are having pretty similar seasons, although Mariners fans should feel more frustrated given the Mariners did an even bigger roster turnover since these two last met in August 2018. The Mariners also got off to a 13-2 start and have gone 38-71. At least the Blue Jays didn't tease the fans with a hot start or stretch. The most the Blue Jays won in a row was 5 at the beginning of this lengthy 20 day stretch of games. Both teams won a game of the weekend series, setting up a rubber match Sunday. The Mariners used their bullpen day Saturday very effectively, keeping Blue Jays hitters off-balance and holding them to 3 runs on 9 hits and 3 walks. Of course, losing Vlad after just 2 innings (knee) didn't help things (more on that later). The Mariners took the rubber match  thanks to a stellar 2-hit, complete game performance by lefty Yusei Kikuchi. Mariners batters also went yard 4 times off Blue Jays pitchers. Looking ahead to next week, after an off day/travel day Monday, the Blue Jays embark on their final west coast swing of the season. They kick things off with some interleague action against ex-Blue Jays catcher Russell Martin and the LA Dodgers. Trent Thornton is the only Blue Jays pitcher with a hit in interleague play this season (he was 2-3 with 2 runs scored in San Francisco back in mid-May). The Dodgers are all but certainly going to win the NL West title and should have home field advantage until the World Series. The last time these two teams met in 2016, the Dodgers took 2 of 3 including a dominant 7-inning performance from Clayton Kershaw, who should pitch in this series. Justin Smoak is the only current Blue Jay who played in that Series. Russell Martin caught 2 of the 3 games for the Blue Jays, but he's now the Dodgers backup catcher. Next weekend sees the rematch against the Mariners in Seattle. Last year, the Blue Jays took 3 of 4 in Seattle. Felix Hernandez may make his return to the Mariners rotation next weekend. He's scheduled for a 4th rehab start in Tacoma today. Here are ten random thoughts from week 10 of the MLB.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Game #127 Seattle Mariners (51-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-74)

       Image result for seattle mariners                                                











Sorry for the ugliness of the game thread post. I just woke up and I am working on my first coffee and it's 15 minutes till game time and panic has set in. ( actually not really )



This is your game thread, deal with it edition.
Nate's up to the Bison's.
Vlad's gonna be okay
I'm sure there will be more news posted in the comments.

It's thread like this that make us appreciate the work of dabbles, Lunchbox and the hard work of everyone who do the game threads on a regular basis.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Game #126 Seattle Mariners (51-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-74) - game recap

Austin Nola was 2-4, including a solo HR to lead the Mariners to a 4-3 victory over the Blue Jays 

First, there will be no game recap tomorrow as I am helping out with a car wash in Surrey. My weekly random thoughts post will be posted as per usual Monday morning. After taking the first game of this weekend series thanks to the strong pitching of Jacob Waguespack and some timely hitting by the Blue Jays batters, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two in a row vs. their expansion cousins. Trent Thornton, who was looking to repeat his performance from 5 days ago who he held a tough Yankees lineup to 1 run on 3 hits while walking one and striking out 6 over 6 innings. The lineup was pretty much the same as yesterday, except Justin Smoak got the half day off, serving as the DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1st base and Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row against their expansion cousins? Here is today's game recap.

#126 - Seattle Mariners (50-73) at Toronto Blue Jays (52-73)

Program book from the Mariners' first game ever

Saturday, August 17, 2019 | 3:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Reggie McClain (opener, 0-0, 4.50, 1.00) vs. Trent Thornton (4-8, 5.34, 1.48)


PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays started off their three-game series against the Mariners with a resounding 7-3 win, including a ridiculous HR hit by Vlad Jr. who admitted it looked like his father out there.  Game two of the series goes this afternoon and the Jays will be trying to lock up a series win against a team that had their season literally falling off a cliff after a 13-2 start.

Trent Thornton takes the ball for the Jays this afternoon and he'll go up against an opener in Reggie McClain and assorted others (likely to be some combination of Zac Grotz, Erik Swanson and Sam Tuivailala).


Friday, August 16, 2019

Game #125 Seattle Mariners (50-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-73) - game recap

Jacob Waguespack threw 5.1 strong innings to lead the Blue Jays to a 7-3 victory over the Mariners

After taking 2 of 3 from Texas earlier this week, the Blue Jays opened a three game series against the Mariners, who they'll face in Seattle in a week. Toronto took the season series last yea 4-3, including 3 of 4 in Seattle, including my first MLB game, which was also the debut of Mike Hauschild, who pitched 6 innings of outstanding baseball in that game. He was lit up his next game six days later and hasn't pitched since. Last season's season series also saw Ladner, BC native James Paxton throw a no-hitter in Toronto. This year, the Mariners are pretty much destined to finish last in the AL West, ten games  worse than the 4th place Texas Rangers. They effectively cleaned house this season, stripping the roster of the veterans, trading away Guillermo Heredia, Mike Zunino, James Paxton, Alex Colombe, Robinson Cano, Edwin Diaz (who saved 57 games for the Marines in 2018), Juan Nicaso, Jean Segura, James Pazos, Ben Gamel, Jay Bruce, Edwin Encarnacion and Mike Leake all since the baseball season ended last year. All these moves left the Mariners with a roster filled with prospects, who may have been promoted prematurely simply to fill roster spots. The results speak for themselves. The Mariners have struggled to win 50 games, one game less than the Blue Jays. Dee Gordon, Mallex Smith, Kyle Seagar and injured vets Felix Hernandez (he's been hampered with a wonky shoulder the whole season) and Mitch Hanigar (ruptured his testicles a couple of months ago; he played his first rehab game yesterday and could be back by the rematch in Seattle next week) are the only names you'll probably recognize unless you really follow the minors.

#125 - Seattle Mariners (50-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (51-73)



Friday, August 16, 2019 | 7:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Matt Wisler (opener, 2-2, 4.58, 1.38) and Wade LeBlanc (bulk, 6-6, 5.14, 1.37)
vs.
Jacob Waguespack (big-ass-boy-to-start-on-his-own, 3-1, 4.31, 1.34)


PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays, after a well-deserved day off, hit the field again with a three-game series at the Rogers Centre against their expansion cousins, the Seattle Mariners.

Jacob Waguespack faces the Mariners for the first time in his career and he'll face a tandem of Matt Wisler (opener) and Wade LeBlanc, who spent time in 2016 with the Bisons before being traded for our old buddy Cash Considerations or an even older buddy PTBNL (it was never revealed which it was for, as far as I could see).  LeBlanc is 0-0, 5.40 in three appearances against the Jays.


Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Game #124 Texas Rangers (60-60) @ Toronto Blue Jays (51-73) - game recap

Danny Santana was 2-5, scoring 3 runs and driving in 3 to lead the Texas Rangers to a 7-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays

After a convincing 3-0 shutout yesterday on my birthday, highlighted by a strong four inning performance by Thomas Pannone and a save by Ken Giles, making his first appearance since August 7th, the Blue Jays wrapped up this series and this 20 day stretch of games with a matinee against the Rangers. There have been definite highlights in this stretch of games from sweeping Kansas City and taking the first two in Baltimore to create a new longest winning streak mark for the season to taking 2 of three in Tampa Bay and then coming home and splitting  a 4-game series against the Yankees. Today, they had a chance to end this season-long stretch of games with an exclamation point and sweeping Texas. Rowdy Tellez got the start at 1st base a day after being recalled from Buffalo. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after Reese McGuire got the start last night. Vlad got the half day off with Brandon Drury at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays dig deep and sweep the Rangers? Here is today's game recap.

#124 - Texas Rangers (59-60) at Toronto Blue Jays (51-72)



Wednesday, August 14, 2019 | 1:37 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Kolby Allard (0-0, 4.15, 1.38) vs. Sean Reid-Foley (2-2, 2.36, 1.50)


PREAMBLE:

After winning the first two games of this three-game series by scores of 19-4 and 3-0, the Blue Jays look to complete a sweep of the Rangers before they enjoy a well-deserved day off tomorrow.

Sean Reid-Foley looks to continue a stretch of respectable outings as he takes on a Rangers team that has been struggling to score runs throughout their 2-6 (so far) road trip.  Kolby Allard, a lefthander, will take the ball for the Rangers for his second start with the team and third major-league start overall.


Tuesday, August 13, 2019

#123 - Texas Odors (59-59) at Toronto Bo Jays (50-72)

Bautista saying "howdy" to Odor after the Bat Flip

Tuesday, August 13, 2019 | 7:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Lance Lynn (14-7, 3.60, 1.19) 
vs. 
Wilmer Font (opener, 1-0, 2.51, 0.84) and Thomas Pannone (bulk, 2-5, 6.83, 1.41)


PREAMBLE:

After a thorough beatdown in last night's opener, the Blue Jays look to carry over the momentum into tonight's second game against their not-so-beloved rivals, the Rangers.  The Jays' youth movement is in full force with Freddy Galvis being scooped up on waivers, and last night's rout was a good start moving forward.

Wilmer Font will open the game for the Jays and then turn things over to Thomas Pannone when he's good'n'ready.  They will matchup against Lance Lynn, who has been beaten around a little by the Jays in his career (1-2, 6.11 ERA in six outings).  Pannone set fire to the mound in his one start against the Rangers earlier this season (7 runs in 2.1 innings).


Monday, August 12, 2019

Game #122 Texas Rangers (59-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (50-72) - game recap

Bo Bichette was 4-6 with 3 runs scored and an RBI in a 19-4 rout over the Rangers

First of all, I will remind everyone here that there will be no game recap tomorrow due to me celebrating my 35th birthday. With the short turnaround between games, I propose just sticking with the game thread a few extra hours until Wednesday. Tonight, the Blue Jays opened a three game set against the Texas Rangers. The Blue Jays roster is decidedly different than the one that lost 2 of 3 in Arlington back in May. Freddy Galvis was claimed this morning by the Cincinnati Reds. Neil Ramirez made his Blue Jays debut tonight, opening for the Blue Jays. Billy McKinney was recalled to take Galvis's roster spot and was on the bench today. Justin Smoak got the half day off after a full day off yesterday with Brandon Drury at 1st base. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after the day off yesterday and Vlad was back in the lineup too. Could the Blue Jays beat the Rangers? Here is today's game recap.

#122 - Texas Rangers (59-58) at Toronto Blue Jays (49-72)



Monday, August 12, 2019 | 7:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Ariel Jurado (6-7, 4.74, 1.38) vs. Neil Ramirez (opener, 0-1, 5.40, 1.62)


PREAMBLE:

After splitting a well-fought, four-game series against the Yankees, the Blue Jays welcome their old post-season rivals, the Texas Rangers, to town for a three-game set.  Both teams are coming off 1-0 games; the Rangers won theirs and the Jays lost theirs.

Newly-acquired Neil Ramirez will open the game for the Jays in his debut with the team.  He'll face off against Ariel Jurado, who was the losing pitcher when the Jays won 1-0 in 12 innings earlier this season.  Thanks for the throwing error to bring in the only run of the game and save both teams' bullpens from further extra innings, Jurado.


Ten weekly random thoughts: Week 19: August 5-11


It was a solid week of baseball for the Blue Jays. First, they went into the house of horrors that is Tropicana field and took two of three from the Tampa Bay Rays. Monday was especially sweet as Jacob Waguespack, Justin Shafer, Tim Mayza and Derek Law held a good Rays lineup to 5 hits and 2 walks. Bo Bichette scored both runs. The next day, the Blue Jays bullpen blew a 6-run lead and lost in extra innings on a wild pitch. The Blue Jays held on in the 9th of the 3rd game of the series to edge the Rays 4-3 and end the 10-game road trip with a win. The Blue Jays then hosted the Yankees for 4. The Yankees brought their bats to the opener of the 4-game set out-slugging the Blue Jays 12-6 The Blue Jays also lost Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in the 9th inning of that game (more on that later). The Blue Jays took the next 2 games, before a masterful 8-inning shutout performance by Masahiro Tanaka, who always seems to pitch well vs. the Blue Jays. Looking ahead, the Blue Jays have a three game series vs. the Texas Rangers, who took two of three in Arlington back in the beginning of May. Then the Blue Jays FINALLY get an off-day after 20 straight days of games. They then face the Seattle Mariners before embarking on the final west coast road trip of the season. Like the Blue Jays, the Mariners are in the midst of a rebuild and are likely several seasons away from contending. The only names you'll really recognize on Seattle's roster are 2B Dee Gordon, Kyle Seagar and Mallex Smith. Felix Hernandez is recovering from a right shoulder strain that has kept him out the bulk of the season. He was just sent on a rehab assignment this week, so he'll be a few weeks away. Mitch Hanigar ruptured a testicle and is out a few weeks. Here are ten random thoughts from week 19 of the MLB.

Sunday, August 11, 2019

Game #121 New York Yankees (77-41) @ Toronto Blue Jays (49-72) - game recap

Masahiro Tanaka threw 8 dominant innings in a 1-0 shutout over the Blue Jays

The Blue Jays were going for a rare series win vs the all-mighty Yankees. The Blue Jays were facing a formidable opposing pitcher in Masahiro Tanaka who has historically given him trouble. Meanwhile, Trent Thornton got the start for the Blue Jays. A pair of roster moves are anticipated today with righty Neil Ramirez, a free agent signing this week and Billy McKinney spotted in the clubhouse. Ken Giles could be one of the roster moves as his elbow has not responded to the cortisone shot. Could he be the third reliever headed to Dr. Andrews for season-ending surgery. I think McKinney is being brought up because the team is not comfortable with just 2 available off the bench. Vlad got the whole day off as a reward for hitting his first career triple. I'm not even going to begin to analyze Charlie Montoyo's lineup decisions because they are random and bizarre at the best of times. It was Cavan Biggio's turn to get the half day off, serving as the DH. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate with the short turnaround between games. Could the Blue Jays take the series win? Here is today's game recap.

#121 - New York Yankees (76-41) at Toronto Blue Jays (49-71)



Sunday, August 11, 2019 | 1:07 pm
Rogers Centre | Toronto, Ontario

Masahiro Tanaka (7-6, 4.93, 1.32) vs. Trent Thornton (4-7, 5.55, 1.53)


PREAMBLE:

The Blue Jays, having won the past two games, look to secure a series win in the finale of a four-game series against the Evil Empire.

In a stunning development, we have two actual starting pitchers going up against each other in today's game.  Yes, stop the presses and put Wince on defibrillator-watch.  Trent Thornton takes the ball for the Jays as he faces off against Masahiro Tanaka, who is 3-3, 3.70 in eight Rogers Centre starts.


Saturday, August 10, 2019

Game #120 New York Yankees (76-41) @ Toronto Blue Jays (49-71) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his first career triple to lead the Blue Jays to a 5-4 victory over the Yankees

After laying a beat down on the Yankees thanks to the bats of Danny Jansen (3-run HR) and Teoscar Hernandez (2 HR; solo shot and 2-run dinger) the Blue Jays were trying to make it 2 in a row against one of the better teams in the league. It won't take much for catastrophe to strike. The Blue Jays are taking a huge risk with a 2-man bench with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. on the 10 day IL. For today, Reese McGuire and Brandon Drury were the only ones on the bench in the event of injury. Bo Bichette got the half day off, serving as the DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row vs. the Yankees? Here is today's game recap.

Game #120 New York Yankees (76-40) @ Toronto Blue Jays (48-71)

                                                      

                                                  Saturday August 10, 3:07 PM EST
                                                                     Skydome


                                         Chad Green RHP,2-3, 45.2IP, 4.93 ERA, 1.45 whip, 59 SO
                     
                                                                            vs

                                         Wilmer Font RHP, 2-3, 57.1 IP, 4.71 ERA, 1.29 whip, 58 SO


Another quick and dirty game thread.


A two man bench is sub optimal.
Wow
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">With 4 HR, the <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BlueJays</a> have 38 home runs over their last 14 games. That ties the most home runs by any team over a 14-game span in MLB history; the other teams to do so were the 1987 Orioles, 2005 Yankees, 2006 Braves and 2019 Twins. <a href="https://twitter.com/StatsBySTATS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatsBySTATS</a></p>&mdash; Ben Wagner (@benwag247) <a href="https://twitter.com/benwag247/status/1160011558954721280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Line ups




Friday, August 9, 2019

Game #119 New York Yankees (76-40) @ Toronto Blue Jays (48-71) - game recap

Danny Jansen hit a 3-run HR in an 8-2 victory over the mighty Yankees 

After Blue Jays pitching got knocked around by the Yankees, led by 2 2-run HR by old friend Gio Urshela, the Blue Jays turned to SRF to try and right the ship. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after sitting out two days in a row. Freddy Galvis got a half day off tonight, serving as the DH tonight. Justin Smoak got the full day off with Brandon Drury at 1st base. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was place om the ILwith a grade 1 quad strain. It was learned prior to the game (not surprisingly) that Ryan Borucki's season is over. He had a procedure to remove bone spurs this week. Could the Blue Jays beat the Yankees and tie the series. Here is tonight's game recap.

#119 - Yankees (76-39) vs Blue Jays (47-71)


Fri, Aug 9 • 7:07 PM EDT
At SkyDome

JA Happ LHP 9-6, 115.0 IP, 5.24 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 91 K
vs
Sean Reid-Foley RHP 1-2, 21.2 IP, 2.49 ERA, 1.52 WHIP, 18 K

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Game #118 New York Yankees (76-39) @ Toronto Blue Jays (47-71) - game recap

Reese McGuire was 4-4 with 3 runs scored and an RBI in a losing effort as the Yankees doubled up on the Blue Jays 12-6

After a successful ten-day road trip where they went 7-3, they returned home for the first time since the trade deadline with a decidedly different team. Stroman and Sogard were dealt before the plane left the tarmac for Kansas City. David Phelps, Daniel Hudson, Aaron Sanchez and Joe Biagini were all sent packing on or before deadline day. Don't tell the Blue Jays they are worse off. They have been playing loose and like their jobs are on the line. Bo Bichette had hits in his first 10 career games, and has set a new franchise mark for extra base hits to start a career. Vlad has taken off after showing some fatigue the week or two after his outstanding Home run derby performance. Tonight, the Blue Jays take on a Yankees team that knows a thing or two about making the most out of little. Their current IL list is big enough to field a team and then some! Prior to the game, the Blue Jays sent down Brock Stewart to get a fresh arm up. Righty Zack Godley took a seat in the bullpen tonight. Thomas Pannone got the start today. Reese McGuire got his second straight start behind the plate  Perhaps Danny Jansen is still feeling the effects of the ball he took off he nether-region a couple of days ago. Cavan Biggio and Vlad were back in the lineup a day after sitting out the road trip finale. Could the Blue Jays extend the winning streak against a red-hot Yankees team that has won 8 straight? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:
  • The Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Gio Urshela slammed a 2-run bomb to left-center also scoring DJ LeMahieu
  • The Yankees added a run in the top of the 3rd on a wild pitch by Thomas Pannone that scored Bryvec Valera
  • A batter later, Urshela smashed his second two-run blast of the game to left-center also scoring LeMahieu
  • Two batters later, Cameron Maybin singled home Didi Gregorius
  • A batter, Mike Tauchman hammered a two-bomb to right
  • Thomas Pannone pitching line: 2.1 IP 6H 7R (all earned) 0BB 1K 55 pitches (37 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got on the board in the bottom of the 5th as Derek Fisher led off with a solo blast to right-center 
  • Two batters later, Bo Bichette hammered a two-run bomb off the basing of the 3rd deck in left; also scoring Reese McGuire
  • Two batters later, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled home Cavan Biggio
  • The Yankees added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as LeMahieu singled scoring Mike Ford and Valera
  • Domingo German pitching line: 5IP 8H 4R (3 earned) 1BB 3K 90 pitches (64 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Bichette doubled home McGuire
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as McGuire lined a solo drive to right
  • The Yankees added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Tauchman singled scoring Urshela and Maybin
  • Final score: Yankees 12 Blue Jays 6
My Take:
  • It was not Thomas Pannone's finest hour to be sure. The Blue Jays lefty got burned on three separate occasions for leaving balls in the middle of the plate. Most MLB teams will capitalize on those pitches, but the Yankees are especially adept at hitting balls over the wall. Pannone also threw two wild pitches and hit a batter. Given the lack of alternative starting options, it's likely Pannone remains in the starting rotation for the remainder of the season.
  • A very scary moment in the 9th. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. took a very awkward and hard spill at 1st base trying to beat out an infield single. He also went down hard on his left quad. In fact, when I saw it on my stream, I immediately thought of when Troy Tulowitzki badly injured his ankle on a very similar play. Don't be shocked if Gurriel's season is in jeopardy. Certainly his availability for the weekend series vs. his brother and the Houston Astros would appear to be very much up in the air. Too bad because Gurriel Jr. was 2-5 tonight with an RBI. He has emerged an elite outfielder with an incredible 9 outfield assists and was one of the Blue Jays better hitters with a .277 average with 19 HR and 46RBI heading into tonight's game.
  • Onto some happier news. Bo Bichette continues to hammer MLB pitching and he's now on par with some very elite company. He extended his extra base hit streak to nine games (first to do so since Ted Williams in 1939. He also extended his hitting streak to 11 games, 3rd longest to start a career behind Rocco Baldelli (13 game streak) and Eddie Murphy (12 game hitting streak). Bichette also set a new MLB mark for most consecutive games with a double (9). Think of all the elite players who have played in the MLB and Bichette is shattering these records at age 21!
  • Reese McGuire sure took advantage of playing two days in a row. He was 4 for 4 at the plate, scoring three times, including a solo home run. If I'm Charlie Montoyo I stick with McGuire while he has a hot stick. However, it's more likely than not that Danny Jansen returns behind the plate tomorrow
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series as Sean-Reid Foley tries to have a better outing than five days ago when he gave up 4 runs (just one earned due to errors in the field) on 4 hits while walking 4 and striking out 2. The Yankees will counter with ex-Blue Jay lefty JA Happ.