Game #106 Cleveland Clevelands (52-53) v. Toronto Corey Richardersons (56-49)

 

Game #105 Cleveland Indians (52-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (56-49) - game recap

 

George Springer was 4-5 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI as the Blue Jays held on to defeat the Indians 8-6

After defeating the Indians on the backs of strong games from George Springer, Teoscar Hernandez and Hyun-jin Ryu. Joakim Soria was placed on the 10-day IL. Taylor Saucedo was called up to take his roster spot. Steven Matz got the start. Corey Dickerson was in LF after DH'ing yesterday and George Springer got the half day off today as DH with Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Could The Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off with a solo bomb to dead center 
• Five batters later, Corey Dickerson doubled scoring Marcus Semien and Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Randal Grichuk singled home Dickerson
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd on a fielder's choice hit by Bichette that scored Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Reese McGuire doubled scoring Randal Grichuk
• A batter later, Springer doubled home Breyvic Valera and Grichuk
• JC Mejia pitching line:2.1IP 7H 8R (all earned) 4BB 0K 75 pitches (38 for strikes)
• Steven Matz pitching line: 6IP 6H 0R 1BB 8K 92 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Indians got 3 back in the top of the 8th on a bases clearing double by Owen Miller that scored Fanmil Reyes, Bobby Bradley and Oscar Mercado
• Two batters later, Miller scored on a sac fly by Bradley Zimmer 
• The Indians got one back in the top of the 9th as Jose Ramirez whacked an opposite-field shot to right-center 
• Three batters later, Mercado drilled a solo bomb to left
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Indians 6

My Take:

• Steven Matz just made the decision on how to handle a crowded rotation, with the addition of Jose Berros. He threw six shutout innings, scattering 6 hits while walking none and striking out 8. It wouldn't surprise me if the Blue Jays opt for a 6-man rotation to give Hyun-Jin Ryu an extra days rest and maybe avoid what happened in the WC game vs. the Rays last season
• The bullpen had a rough day. Taylor Saucedo, just called back up after Soria went on the IL, was lit up for 4 runs on 5 hits and did not retire a batter. Jordan Romano gave up a pair of solo home runs and had the tying run at bat before striking out Austin Hedges to end the game
• As has been the trend, the offense scored early and often, scoring 8 runs over the first three innings and no base runners after the 5th inning. With the inconsistency of the bullpen, being able to tack on an insurance run late would take some of the pressure off the relievers.
• George Springer is on fire! He was 4-5,including a leadoff HR and scored twice and drove in 3 runs
• Every Blue Jays batter, except Bo Bichette (although he drew a walk, had an RBI and scored once
• Corey Dickerson drove in his first two runs as a Blue Jay and scored his first run as a Blue Jay
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the season series against the Indians and will be looking for their 3rd straight win. Ross Stripling gets the start against Indians righty Tristan McKenzie

Game #105 Cleveland Clevelands (52-52) v. Toronto Corey Richardersons (55-49)

 

Game #104 Cleveland Indians (52-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (55-49) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez was 3-3 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI in a 7-2 win over the Indians

After a tough extra innings loss yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Jonathan Davis was claimed by the Yankees. Cavan Biggio wss placed on the 10-day IL with mid-back tightness and Corey Dickerson was reinstated off the IL and DH'd tonight. Hyun-Jin Ryu got his first start in Toronto. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Breyvic Valera got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off with a solo blast to left-center 
• Four batters later, Teoscar Hernandez whacked an opposite-field shot to right; also scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Indians got one back in the top of the 4th as Bobby Bradley doubled scoring Harold Ramirez
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out by Breyvic Valera that scored Hernandez
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a sac fly by Bo Bichette that scored Springer
• A batter later, Hernandez singled scoring Marcus Semien
• Zach Plesac pitching line: 5IP 10H 6R (all earned) 0BB 0K 82 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Indians got one back in the top of the 6th as Ramirez doubled home Franmil Reyes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Springer that scored Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 7IP 7H 2R (both earned) 0BB 8K 99 pitches (69 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Indians 2

My Take:

• Hyun-Jin Ryu had a solid start in his debut pitching at the Roger's Centre, allowing 2 runs on 7 hits while walking none and striking out 8 over 7 innings. Ryu retired the first 6 batters he faced and the final 4 batters he faced.
• The bullpen threw 2 perfect innings and struck out three
• In his Blue Jays debut, Corey Dickerson was 0-4 and stranded 4 runners
• Every Blue Jays batter except Dickenson and Vlad had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for two straight wins over the Indians. Steven Matz starts against Indians righty JC Mejia

Game #104 Cleveland Clevelands (52-51) v. Toronto Corey Richardersons (54-49)

 

Game #103 Cleveland Indians (52-51) @ Toronto Blue Jays (54-49) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smashed a 2-run bomb in a 5-2 loss in extra innings to the Indians

After sweeping the Royals in the their first series back in Toronto, the Blue Jays opened a four-game series against the Indians beginning with a holiday Monday matinee. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 against the Indians (aka giuardians in 2022)) in Cleveland back at the end of May. John Axford was traded to the Brewers for cash. Robbie Ray got the start. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 2B (his original position). Alejandro Krk was behind the plate after the day off yesterday. Vlad was back in the field after the complete day off yesterday. George Springer was back in CF after DH'ing yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the complete day off with Teoscar Hernandez in LF. Randal Grichuk was in RF after playing in CF yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it five straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Indians opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Harold Ramirez singled scoring Myles Straw. Randal Grichuk threw a strike to Alejandro Kirk to nail Amed Rosario, who tried to score from 2nd base
• A batter later, Oscar Mercado singled home Franmil Reyes
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smashed a 2-run blast to left; also scoring George Springer 
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 109 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Eli Morgan pitching line; 6IP5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 9K 92 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Indians took the lead in the top of the 10th as Rosario singled scoring Straw
• A batter later, Jose Ramirez drilled a 2-run bomb off the facing of the 4th deck; also scoring Rosario
• Emmanuel Clase pitched a perfect 10th for his 14th save of the season
• Final score: Indians 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Robbie Ray battled through 6 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. A great defensive play kept the damage to 2 runs against. He got stronger as the game went on and retired the final 6 batters he faced.
• The bullpen pitched solidly, at least through the 9th inning. Brad Hand laid an egg and allowed 3 runs (2 earned as the runner that starts the extra inning(s) on 2nd base counts as an unearned run). Right off the bat, Hand threw a  wild pitch that advanced Myles Straw, who scored on a single by Rosario. Hand then gave up a moonshot to Blue Jays killer Jose Ramirez. Looks like Pete Walker has some work to do on the Blue Jays latest pet project. Joakim Soria made his Blue Jays debut retiring all three batters he faced and striking out 1
• It seems a complete and half day off respectively did wonders for Vlad and George Springer who combined to score both runs on the day and 2/3 of the Blue Jays hits.
• Alejandro Kirk, battling to keep his job when Danny Jansen returns from the latest hamstring strain, doubled and struck out three times. He was also unable to handle a wild pitch thrown by Hand. Reese McGuire got his chance to shine aas pinch runner in the 10th for Kirk. He had no chance to advance with Cavan Biggio lining out, Springer grounding out to 3B and Vlad ending the game bouncing out to the pitcher
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series as ace Hyun-Jin Ryu takes to the bump against Indians righty (and nephew of ex-Jays reliever Dan Plesac) Zach Plesac

Game #103 Cleveland Clevelands (51-561) v. Toronto Berrio, Jose's (54-48)

 

Game #102 Kansas City Royals (45-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (54-48) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 6 shutout innings in a 5-1 win over the Royals

After shutting out the Royals last night, the Blue Jays were looking ro complete the sweep and make it four wins in a row. Jose Berrios and Joakim Soria joined the team and were active for the game (Berrios got his first start as a Blue Jay). Thomas Hatch and Taylor Saucedo were optioned to AAA. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Vlad got the whole day off. George Springer gotte half day off, serving as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 1B. Could the Blue Jays complete the sweep and make it 4 wins in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as George Springer doubled home Reese McGuire. Springer was tagged out on the play trying to advance to 3rd base.
• Two batters later, Marcus Semien drilled a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Teoscar Hernandez
• Brad Keller pitching line: 3IP 7H 3R (all earned) 0BB 3K 51 pitches (33 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Marcus Semien smashed a solo bomb to left-center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a bases loaded walk to Semien that forced in Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 5H 0R 1BB 7K 95 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 9th as Edward Olivares whacked a solo blast to left
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Royals 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios was excellent in his Blue Jays debut, throwing 6 shutout innings, scattering 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. His command could use a little fine tuning as he hit three batters. Overall a nice debut by the righty.
• The bullpen did a decent job, striking out 5, although Tim Mayza did allow a solo shot to break the shutout bid.
• The Vladless line up did a fine job with everyone, but his replacement at 1B, Cavan Biggio getting one hit. Everyone but Bo Bichette, Teoscar Hernandez and Marcus Semien drew at least one walk.
• Despite all the base runners, the Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a series against the Indians. The Blue Jays won 2 of the 3 games in Cleveland and have outscored the Indians 20-9. Monday's game features Robbie Ray pitching against Indians righty Eli Morgan.

Game #102 Kansas City Royals (45-58) v. Toronto Berrio, Jose's (53-48)

 

Game #101 Kansas City Royals (45-58) @ Toronto Blue Jays (53-48) - game recap

Alek Manoah threw 7 shutout innings in a 4-0 win over the Royals

After a hard-fought win over the Royals in their first game back in Toronto in 22 months, the Blue Jays were looking to make it three wins in a row. Alek Manoah returned to the rotation after missing a start after falling down some stairs. Trent Thorntnon was optioned to AAA to make room for him. Randal Grichuk got the half day off as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. back in LF after missing a day and a half after getting hit by a pitch Wednesday in Boston, George Springer in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off with a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Springer whacked an opposite field shot to right-center; also scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Marcus Semien tripled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 2H 0R 1BB 4K 89 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Mike Minor pitching line: 7IP 5H 4R (all earned) 1BB 6K 99 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Royals 0

My Take:

• Alek Manoah was excellent today, throwing seven shutout innings, allowing 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. He retired an impressive 16 in a row - easily the best streak of the season by a Blue Jays starter 
• The revamped bullpen continued to flex its mighty muscles. Ryan Boruucki came in first and retired two of the three batters he faced. After allowing a single to the first batter he faced, Adam Cimber struck out the next four batters to end the game with an exclamation point.
• George Springer continued to celebrate his first homestand in Toronto with a bang. After going three for four last night with a run scored and an RBI, Springer whacked a pair of home runs for three runs
• Vlad, Marcus Semien, and Alejandro Kirk were the only other Blue Jays to record a hit today
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for the series sweep and 4 straight wins. Righty Brad Keller starts for the Royals and the Blue Jays have not announced a starter yet (maybe Jose Berros makes his Blue Jays debut?

Game #101 Kansas City Royals (45-57) v. Toronto Berrio, Jespinals(52-48)

Game #100 Kansas City Royals (45-57) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-48) - game recap

 

George Springer was 3-4 with a run scored and an RBI in a 6-4 victory over the Royals in the first home game at the Rogers Centre since September 29, 2019

After destroying the Red Sox 13-1 yesterday, the Blue Jays made their long-awaited return to the Rogers Center for the first time since an 8-3 victory over the Rays waaayyy back on September 29, 2019 to end the 2019 season. Today was also the trade deadline. The Blue Jays made a big splash, acquiring Twins ace Jose Berros for Austin Martin and Simeon Woods-Richardson. Berros was 7-5 with a 3.48ERA in 20 starts this season for the Twins. Woods-Richardson was having a rough go in AA-ball with a 2-4 record and a 5.76ERA in 11 starts this season. Martin was quickly rising in the minor league ranks. He was batting .280 in AA-ball with 2 HR and 16RBI in 196AB. Had he remained a Blue Jay, he would have stood a decent chance of making the team at the hot corner. He has versatility with the ability to play CF and SS as well as 3B. Martin is the one the Blue Jays will miss the most. To make room for Berros, Tyler Chatwood was DFA'd, ending a disappointing time with the Blue Jays. Chatwood was 1-2 with a 5.76 ERA in 30 appearances this season. He was responaible for several of the blown leads. The Blue Jays also acquired righty Joakim Soria from the Diamondbacks for two players to be named later. Soria was 1-4 with a 4.30 ERA in 31 appearances this season. He has 6 saves.

OK, onto today's game. The Blue Jays opened an 11 game in 10 day homestand (which includes a double header August 7 against the Red Sox as a make-up for the rained out game July 20 in Buffalo) against the Royals. The Royals won 3 of the 4 games in KC and have outscored the Blue Jays 13-12. Kirby Snead was optioned to AAA and Jonathan Davis was DFA'd. Brad Hand was activated. Ross Stripling got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the lineup as DH after missing a game after getting hit by a pitch two days ago with Teoscar Hernandez in LF and Randal Grichuk in RF. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row and win their first home game in Toronto in 670 days? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Teoscar Hernandez hammered a solo bomb off the basing of the 3rd deck in left
• Five batters later, George Springer doubled scoring Randal Grichuk
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled home Bo Bichette 
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 5th as Nicky Lopez tripled scoring Jarrod Dyson
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 6th as Salvador Perez whacked a solo blast to left-center 
• Lance Lynn pitching line: 6IP 7H 3R (all earmed) 2BB 2K 107 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 1K 76 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a double play ball hit by Marcus Semien that scored Breyvic Valera 
• A batter later, Bichette cranked an opposite-field shot to right-center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 8th on an infield single by Whit Merrifield that plated Lopez. The run was unearned thanks to a throwing error by Bichette. It was Bichette's 20th error of the season
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 9th on a groundout by Michael A. Taylor that scored Hunter Dozier 
• Jordan Romano pitched the 9th for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Royals 4

My Take:

•  Ross Stripling had a solid start, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1. He retired 8 in a row. With the addition of Jose Berros to the rotation, one of Stripling or Steven Matz will become the long man in the bullpen, unless the Blue Jays opt to go with a 6-man rotation
• The bullpen bent but held the lead in the first game back in Toronto. In his Blue Jays debut, Brad Hand allowed an unearned run on a pair of hits in his inning of work. Tim Mayza was excellent, retiring all five batters he faced while striking out 2. Jordan Romano conceded a run on a brilliant defensive play where Romano leaped to snag a comebacker and juat beat a hard-running Taylor to the bag.
• OK, Bo Bichette seriously needs to work on his defense. His throwing error led to an unearned run. He has 20 errors this season. It would be a shame if he cost the team some wins because of poor defensive play, especially after Shapiro added so many pieces, in particular completely revamping a bullpen that has blown too many games that should have been wins
• Offensively, the Blue Jays built a three-run lead after 3 innings, then added 3 key runs in the bottom of the 7th that turned out to be the difference in the game. Bo Bichette scored one of the runs on pure hard work on the bases. He stole second bases then later hustled to beat the throw home. Springer made the most of his first game in Toronto as a Blue Jay, going 3-4 with a run scored and an RBI. Hernandez absolutely drilled a ball off the basing of the 3rd deck to open the scoring
• Every Blue Jays starter except Marcus Semien and Randal Grichuk (drew a walk) had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 3-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it three wins in a row. Alek Manoah makes his return to the rotation after missing a start after falling down some stairs in Buffalo. The Royals will counter with lefty Mike Minor

Game #100 Kansas City Royals (45-56) v. Toronto Berrio, Jose's (51-48)

 

Game #99 Toronto Blue Jays (51-48) @ Boston Red Sox (63-41) - game recap

  

Teoscar Hernandez was 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI in a 13-1 rout over the Red Sox

After splitting yesterday's double header, with a costly injury to Lourdes Gurriel Jr, who was drilled in the elbow by a 95MPH fastball in the final inning of the second game of the double header. Tomorrow is the trade deadline. The Blue Jays made a move today, acquiring lefty reliever Brad Hand from the Nationals for catcher Riley Adams. Hand is 5-5 with a 3.59ERA with 25 saves in 41 appearances this season. Adams made his big league debut when both Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk were on the IL. He hit .107 in 28AB. In the field, Adams has 1 error, 4 wild pitches against and all 8 stealing attempts against him were successful. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Vlad was back in the field after dh'ing the 2nd game of yesterday's double header. Gurriel Jr. was completely out of the lineup and George Springer got the half day off as DH so the outfield for today was Cavan Biggio in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Could the Blue Jays end the final game before the most anticipated home game ever? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring  in the top of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Marcus Semien
• Two batters later, Cavan Biggio wingled home Hernandez
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as George Springer singled scoring Reese McGuire.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a bases loaded walk to Marcus Semien that forced in Santiago Espinal
• A batter later, Springer scored on a fielder's choice hit by Bichette 
• Eduardo Rodriguez pitching line: 3.1IP 7H 6R (all earned) 4BB 8K 92 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a 3-run bomb over the green monster in left; also scoring Springer Daland Espinal
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Randal Grichuk singled home Bichette 
• Two batter later, Espinal singled scoring Hernandez
• A bater later, Grichuk scored on a ground-rule double by McGuire 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Hernandez singled scoring Semien
• Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 0BB 5K 87 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Red Sox broke the shutout bid in the bottom half of the inning as Bobby Dalbec singled scoring Christian Vazquez
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Red Sox 1

My Take:

• Hyun-Jin Ryu was excellent, throwing 6 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits while walking none and striking out 5. He probably could have pitched an extra inning, but the bullpen needed work.
• Speaking of the bullpen, they certainly created some unnecessarily nervous moments for Ryu and manager Montoyo. First Taylor Saucedo ruined the shutout bid, giving up a run on 2 hits in his inning of work. Then Rafael Dolis walked a batter and had Bo Bichette flub a couple of grounders, barely managing a force out to avoid a bases losded situation with one out. Kirby Snead allowed a pair odf hits, but struck out the side to end the game. 
• Offensively, it was a teamy effort with every Blue Jays starter getting at least one hit and driving in at least one batter 
• The Blue Jays were 9-20 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the much-anticipated return to the Rogers Center, after more than a year and a half since their last game in Toronto, the Blue Jays FINALLY return to play baseball in Toronto and takr back home fiield advantage. Friday's pitching matchup will be righty Ross Stripling against Royals lefty Daniel Lynch

Game #99 Toronto Brad Jands (50-48) v. Boston Red Sox (63-40)

 

Games #97 and 98 Toronto Blue Jays (50-48) @ Boston Red Sox (63-40) - game recap (records will reflect what it was after the second game)

 Bo Bchette drove in 3 of the 4 runs in a 4-1 victory over the Red Sox in the 1st game of today's double-header and the only run in a 4-1 loss to the Red Sox in the 2nd game of today's double header.

After rain wiped out yesterday's game, the Blue Jays were looking to gain moment by sweeping (or at least splitting) toay's double header. Patrick Murphy was called up as the 27th man for today's double-header. Robbie Ray started the 1st game and Steven Matz was on the bmp for the second game. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate in the 1st game and Reese McGuire started the 2nd game. George Soringer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Teoscar Hernandez got the half day off as DH in the 1st game (Teo was in LF in game 2) and Vlad DH'd the 2nd game (Vlad was at 1B in the 1st game. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF game 1 and at 1B game 2. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner in the 1st game and Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner in the 2nd game. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and sweep (or at least split) the double header? Here is/are today's game recap(s).

Game Highlights (1st game):

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a ground out by JD Martinez that scored Enrique Hernandez
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 2nd as Randal Grichuk singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 3rd as Grichuk hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as George Springer cranked a solo bomb over the green monster in left
• Garrett Richards pitching line: 4IP 8H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 67 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 3BB 8K 108 pitches (69 for strikes)
• Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 7th for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Red Sox 1

My Take (1st game):

• Robbie Ray was solid, allowing 1 run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 8. Maybe the one thing he could have done better was be a bit more efficient with his pitches (the three walks drove up the pitch count. He retired 7 in a row at one point, as well as the final five batters he faced, including striking out the final two batters he faced. His most impressive inning was the 4th where he escaped a bases loaded jam with no one out by striking out two batters and getting Rafael Devers to fly out to George Springer to end the inning.
• Jordan Romano was excellent in the 7th, striking out one and retiring the side in order while throwing 14 pitches
• Randal Grichuk and George Springer drove the offense. Springer hit a solo shot over the green monster and Grichuk drove in 3, including a 2-run bomb to dead center 
• Every Blue Jays starter except Bichette (drew a walk and scored), Teoscar Hernandez and Alejandro Kirk had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the second game of the double header. Steven Matz starts against Red Sox righty Tanner Houck

Game highlights (2nd game):

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Rafael Devers singled home Enrique Hernandez
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 2nd on a sac fly by Jarren Duran that scored Alex Verdugo
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Red Sox added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Duran initially appeared to hit an inside-the park HR (also scoring Plawecki), but George Springer was later charged with an error. Duran was given a triple and scored on the error.
• Steven Matz pitching line: 3.1IP 9H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 71 pitches (48 for strikes)
• Tanner Houck pitching line: 4IP 2H  1R (earned) 1BB 7K 75 pitches (50 for atrikes)
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had to leave the game after getting drilled by a pitch in the 7th
• Matt Barnes pitched a scoreless 7th for his 23rd save of the season
• Final score: Red Sox 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take (2nd game):

• Steven Matz was knocked around today, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2 over 3.1 innings pitched. He has struggled to find his A-game since coming back from a bout of COVID. 
• The bullpen was solid, giving up a pair of hits while walking one and striking out 3 over the final 2.2 innings. Lefty Kirby Snead, a 10th round pick (312th overall) in the 2016 MLB draft, made his big-league debut, getting a double play to end the 5th.
• Bo Bichette continued his hot streak from the 1st game, going 2-3 in game 2 and driving in the only run
• Bichette, along with Marcus Semien, Vlad and Marcus Semien were the only Blue Jays to get hits in both games of the double header
• There has to be concern about Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who was unable to run the bases after getting  drilled in the elbow by a pitch in the 7th. Perhaps trainer Ministral wanted to get X-rays asap.
• The Blue Jays were 1-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap the series, road trip and final game before FINALLY returning home to play in Toronto for the first time since September 29, 2019 (an 8-3 win over the Rays). Tomorrow's pitching match-up is a battle of the lefty aces with Hyun-Jin Ryu going up against Red Sox southpaw Eduardo Rodriguez

Game #97, #98 Toronto Stand Pats (49-47) v. Boston Red Sox (62-39)

 

Game #97 Toronto Stand Pats (49-47) v. Boston Red Sox (62-39)

 

Game #96 Toronto Blue Jays (49-47) @ Boston Red Sox (62-39) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run HR in a 5-4 loss to the Red Sox

After dropping two of three to the Mets, the Blue Jays opened a 4-game series at Fenway vs. the Red Sox. The Red Spx have won 7 of the 11 meetings so far this season, but the Blue Jays have outscored the Red Sox 65-56 We are five days from the trade deadline. It's likely the Blue Jays will try and pick up an arm or two. Thomas Hatch got the start with Alek Manoah still recovering from a fall down some stairs. George Springer got the half day off, serving as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Alex Verdugo singled home Hunter Renfroe
• Three batters later, Verdugo scored on a ground out by Michael Chavis
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring  Reese McGuire
• A batter later, Marcus Semien singled scoring George Springer 
• The Red Sox retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Rafael Devers bashed a solo bomb to right-center 
• Thomas Hatch pitching line: 3.2IP 7H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 73 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 5th as Bo Bichette smacked a 2-run blast over the green monster in left
• Nick Pivetta pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 3K 92 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Red Sox took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Verdugo smashed a 2-run bomb to right-center also scoring Renfroe
• Matt Barnes pitched a perfect 9th for his 22nd save of the season
• Final score: Red Sox 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• It would seem the Blue Jays options at long man are quite scant. Thomas Hatch got the assignment today with Alek Manoah throwing a stimulated game and aiming to be back Saturday from injuries suffered in a fall down some stairs ten days ago. He did ok in the 1st inning, limiting the damage to a double that advanced to third on a wild pitch. The 2nd inning, Hatch gave up a pair of runs on 3 hits and a walk (one run was conceded on a ground out). Third inning, Devers took Hatch yard. Every inning, Hatch had to pitch his way out of trouble
• The bullpen blew a late lead. This time, Trevor Richards was taken yard by Verdugo. The Blue Jays should have a dozen more wins if not for the shaky bullpen. You can bet the Blue Jays will try and add an extra arm, maybe for the late innings and/or as a starter.
• The all-stars once again drove the offence. Vlad and Semien each drove in a run with singles and Bo hit one over the green monster to give the Blue Jays a lead that would last until the 8th.
• Every Blue Jays starter, except Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Cavan Biggio had at least one hit.
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays look to snap the 2-game skid. Robbie Ray gets the start against Red Sox righty Garrett Richards

Game #96 Toronto Stand Pats (49-46) v. Boston Red Sox (61-39)

 

Game #95 Toronto Blue Jays (49-46) @ NY Mets (52-44) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette and Teoscar Hernandez both drove in a pair of runs in a 5-4 loss to the Mets 

After splitting the first two games of the series, the Nlue Jays were looking to take the rubber match against the New York Blue Jays Mets.  Trent Thornton was recalled from AAA and Jonathan Davis was optioned to AAA. Ross Stripling got the start. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. sat out with no DH and Teo in LF and Randal Grichuk in RF. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Espinal Santiago got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Mets opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jonathan Villar singled home JD Davis
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 6th as Bo Bichette singled scoring George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Marcus Semien scored on a fielder's choice hit by Teoscar Hernandez
• Rich Hill pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 1K 62 pitches (39 for strikes)
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 5IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 79 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Mets tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Pete Alonso bashed a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Michael Conforto
• Four batters later, Jeff McNeil doubled home Davis and Villar
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Hernandez singled home Semien
• Edwin Diaz pitched a scoreless 9th for his 21st save of the season
• Finakl score/; Mets 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Ross Stripling pitched a decent game, akllowing 1 run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 6. He was able to make pitches when he had to in order to escape the jams he got into
• The bullpen had a rough day, laying an egg in the 6th when the Mets scored 4 runs on 4 hits and  2 walks. It was nice to see Rafael Dolis pitch 2 days in a row. It shows he is healthy.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays had one big inning in the 6th where they scored 3 runs on a hit batter, walk and 2 hits and a fielder's choice. They eked another run across in the 8th, but could not tie the game.
• Alejandro Kirk had 2 more hits as the Blue Jays catcher continues to make the most of his opportunity with Danny Jansen out for a while.
• The Blue Jays were an abysmal 3-19 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Fenway to begin a 4-game series against the Red Sox, who have won 7 of the 11 meetings in the season series thus far, but have been outscore by the Blue Jays 65-56. Depending on how Alek Manoah is feeling, he could start Monday's game, othewise the Blue Jays will likely turn to Thomas Hatch. The Red Sox will counter with righty Nick Pivetta 

Game #95 New York Blue Jays (51-44) vs. Toronto Perennial Second Placers (49-45)

 

Game #94 Toronto Blue Jays (49-45) @ NY Mets (51-44) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 3-4 with 3 runs scored and 2 RBI in a 10-3 victory over the Mets

After a lacklustre shutout loss to the Mets where Steven Matz was about the only player to show up, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid. Blue Jays batters had to contend with ex-teammate Taijuan Walker. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with Reese McGuire behind the plate. Randal Grichuk got the day off with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. back in LF after sitting out yesterday and Teo in RF. George Springer batted leadoff for the first time this season. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and defeat their ex-teammate? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as George Springer smashed a solo blast to left
• Two batters later, Teoscar Hernandez hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Blue Jays addded three runs in the top of the 5th as Marcus Semien jacked a 3-run bomb to left; also scoring Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Taijuan Walker pitching line: 4IP 8H 6R (all earned) 2BB 1K 76 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Mets got one back in the botto,m half of the inning as Brandon Nimmo singled scoring Luis Guillorme
• A batter later, Pete Alonso singled scoring Brandon Drury
• A batter after that, Dominic Smith singled home Nimmo
• Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 4.1IP 10H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 77 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Bichette hammered a solo bomb to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Bichette singled home Semien
• A batter later, Hernandez bashed an opposite-field 2-run shot to right; also scoring Bichette
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Mets 3

My Take:

• Rough one for Hyun-Jin, who was knocked around to the tune of 3 runs on 10 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. There's something about the chemistry he has with Danny Jansen. Ryu just doesn't seem as comfortable with Reese McGuire. Perhaps next start, they should try Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Offensively, Ryu was 0-2.
• The bullpen scattered 4 hits, walked a batter and struck out 4 over the final 4.2 innings
• The Blue Jays put on a defensive clinic. Lourdes GurrieL Jr. gunned down Brandon Nimmo at the plate to end the 1st inning. George Springer made a tremendous diving catch in the 3rd and Teoscar Hernandez made a great grab against the fence in the 8th. The infielders contributed with three sweet double plays 
• Offensively, the Blue Jays cracked five home runs for nine runs and Bichette singled a 10th run in. The all-stars (Vlad, Bo, Marcus Semien and Teo) combined to go 6-18 with 8 runs scored and 9 runs batted in
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 wins in a row. Ross Stripling starts against Mets lefty Rich Hill

Game #94 New York Blue Jays (51-43) vs. Toronto Perennial Second Placers (48-45)

 

Game #93 Toronto Blue Jays (48-45) @ NY Mets (51-43) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk had a hit in his return to the majors in a 3-0 loss to the Mets 

After closing their time in Buffalo with a disappointing loss to the Red Sox, the Blue Jays hit the road, starting with a little interleague action against the Mets. Last season, the Blue Jays won 2 of 3 in the season series, but were outscored 23-11. Steven Matz got the start against his former team tonight. Danny Jansen was placed back on the IL after reinjuring his hamstring. Alejandro Kirk was recalled from AAA and got the start behind the plate. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the day off with Teoscar Hernandez in LF and no DH with an interleague game in an NL ballpark. Could the Blue Jays start the road trip with a win and could Steven Matz beat his former team? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Higghlights:

• The Mets opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Pete Alonso smashed a 2-run bomb to left-centet; also scoring Brandon Nimmo
• Steven Matz pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 3BB 5K 96 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Tyler Megill pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 1BB 5K 78 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Mets added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Alonso hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Edwin Diaz pitched a perfect 9th for his 20th save of the season
• Final score: Mets 3 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Steven Matz pitched decentely against his former team, except for one mistake pitch that home run derby king Pete Alonso took yard. It turned out to be the difference in the game. Command was a bit off, as evdenced by the three walks. He was 0-2 at the plate and struck out once
• Ryan Borucki was roughed up a bit giving up a run on 2 hits, including the 2nd HR of the day to Alonso
• Offensively, it was not a good night at all. The best chance to score was in the 1st inning when Bo Bichette stole 2nd base on Vlad;s strikeout. Unfortunately George Springer popped up to end the threat. That was the only time the Blue Jays got a runner past 2nd base
• I suppose another positive is Alejandro Kirk got a hit in his return to the majors. He has a golden opportunity to take back a roster spot with Danny Jansen expected to be out for a while.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game losing streak against ex-Blue Jays righty Taijuan Walker. Acquired at the 2020 deadline, Walker was 2-1 with a 1.37ERA in 6 starts in a Blue Jsays uniform. The Blue Jays will counter with ace Hyun-jin Ryu 

Game #93 New York Blue Jays (50-43) vs. Toronto Perennial Second Placers (48-44)

 

Game #92 Boston Red Sox (58-38) @ Toronto Blue Jays (48-44) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run shot in a 7-4 loss to the Red Sox. It was the final home game before the Blue Jays return to Toronto.

After getting rained out yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series Thursday and end their time in Buffalo on a winning note. Joel Payamps was traded to the Royals for cash considerations. Alejandro Kirk was reinstated from the 60-day IL and optioned to AAA. Anthony Kay was optioned to AAA. TJ Zeuch was DFA'd. Patrick Murphy was recalled from AAA. Robbie Ray got the start. Lourdes Gurriel got the half day off, serving as DH with Teoscar Hernandez in LF and Randal Grichuk in RF.. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays get one last win in Buffalo? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Enrique Hernandez smashed a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Bobby Dalbec
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 4th as Rafael Devers hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 5th as Michael Chavis hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 5IP 5H 4R (all earned) 1BB 4K 79 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 6th as Christian Vazquez singled scoring JD Martinez
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer drilled a 2-run shot to right-center; also scoring Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Teoscar Hernandez annihilated a solo bomb to dead center 
• Garrett Richards pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 4R (all earned) 1BB 5K 82 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 8th as Martinez whacked a solo blast to right
• A batter later, Hunter Renfrow hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Matt Barnes pitched a perfect 9th for his 20th save of the season
• Final score: Red Sox 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Robbie Ray was victimied by the long ball. He pitched 5 innings, allowing 5 hits (three HR), 4 runs while walking 1 and sriking out 4.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got three of their 4 runs off the long ball. 
• The bullpen allowed 3 runs on 4 hits while walking one and striking out 5. Trevor Richard was the only driver to have a perfect inning
• It was spots 3-5 in the batting order that did the damage offensively today. Teo, Vlad and Springer each cranked a HR, Vlad and Teo both  hit a solo shot and Springer a 2-run shot
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position.
• With tonight's loss, the Blue Jays record at Sahlen is 30-20. They were 10-11 in Dunedin where they played the first 2 month of this season and 0-2 when they were technically on the road in Washington but got last AB. It's time for some home cooking.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays begin a tretch of 18 games in 17 days (they will play a double header August 7th in LA/Anaheim) beginning with some interleague action in NY. Friday's game will see Steven Matz pitching against Mets righty Tylor Megill. 

Game #92 Red Sux (57-38) vs. Toronto Blue Kay-less (48-43)

Game #92 Red Sux (57-38) vs. Toronto Blue Somethings (48-43)

 

Game #91 Boston Red Sox (57-38) @ Toronto Blue Jays (48-43) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio hit a solo HR in a 13-4 blowout loss to the Red Sox

After destroying the Rangers by a combined score of 25-2, the Blue Jats opened their final series in Buffalo before returning to Toronto July 30, the first MLB game played in Canada since September 29, 2019 - an 8-3 victory over the Rays. The Red Sox have won 5 of the 9 meetings in the season series so far, yet the Blue Jays have outscored them 57-29. Alek Manoah (back contusion from fall on dugout steps) and Anthony Castro (right ulnar nerve irritation) were placed on the 10-day IL Ross Stripling got the star tonight. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Randal Grichuk got the half day off, serving as the DH with George Springer in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Cavan Biggio got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it five wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jarren Duran whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Enrique Hernandez. It was his first career HR
• Five batters later, Hunter Renfroe hammered a grand slam to left center; also scoring Rafael Devers, JD Martinez and Alex Verdugo
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 0.1IP 4H 6R (all earned) 2BB 0K 36 pitches (22 for strikes)
• Three batters later,Georg Hernandez smashed a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Kevin Plawecki
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 2nd as Devers crushed an opposite-field shot to right-center 
• Four batters later, Danny Santana doubled home Martinez and Verdugo
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 4th as Santana hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out by Teoscar Hernandez than scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, George Springer scored on a sac fly by Randal Grichuk
• A batter after that, Cavan Biggio whacked a solo blast to right
• Four batters later, Bo Bichette singled home Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 6th as Hernandez smashed a solo blast to left
• Nick Pivetta pitching line: 6.2IP 11H 4R (all earned) 2BB 4K 108 pitches (75 for strikes)
• Final score: Red Sox 13 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Woof, that was a rough start for Ross Stripling, who recorded just one out in the shortest start by a Blue Jays starter this season.He gave up 6 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out none. The damage was capped off by a grand slam by Hunter Renfroe
• The next man up, Anthony Kay fared no better, giving up five runs on 5 hits while walking three and striking out one. It just highlights the need to acquire more bullpen arms and perhaps an arm that could do a spot start. Likely, Thomas Hatch will be recalled to help the Blue Jays get through a few innings tomorrow with Manoah missing at least one start. The bigger concern is after Thursday's off-day/travel day, the Blue Jays play 17 straight days before the next off-day.
• The Blue Jays had their opportunities offensively, but could not capitalize. They got 11 hits off starter Nick Pivetta but only scored in the 4th inning and two of the runs were conceded on outs. 
• Every Blue Jays starter except Teoscar Hernandez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were a brutal 1-12 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the final series in Buffalo. With the injury to Alek MAanoah, tomorrow will be a bullpen day with Thomas Hatch expected to make his 1st appearance of the season after being on the IL until recently with a right elbow impingement. The Red Sox will counter with righty Garrett Richards

Game #91 Red Sux (56-38) vs. Toronto Blue MVPs (48-42)

 

Games #89 and 90 Texas Rangers (35-58) @ Toronto Blue Jays (48-42) - game recap (recirds will reflect what it was after the second game)

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hit a grand slam in the second game and drove in a run in the 1st game and later scored as the Blue Jays swept the double header with a pair of shutout wns over the Rangers by scores of 5-0 in the 1st game and 10-0 in the 2nd game

After yesterday's game was wiped out by rain, the Rangers and Blue Jays played a double header today. It sounds like the league will eliminate doubleheaders being 7 innings, as well as runners on second base ri start extra innings. Lefty Nick Allgeyer was DFA'd. Jonathan Davis was optioned to AAA and was the 27th man for the double dip. Infielder Breyvic Valera was called up. Hyun-Jin Ryu started the first game and Steven Matz got the second game. Danny Jansen was behind the plate for the first game and Reese McGuire was the catcher in the second game. Teoscar Hernandez DH'd the 1st game and was in LF the second game. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF the 1st game and DH'd the second game. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner the first game and Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner the 2nd game. Could the Blue Jays sweep the souble header and make it four wins in a row? Here are today's game recaps.

Game Highlights (1st game):

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a ground out by Marcus Semien that scored Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• A batter later, Bo Bichette singled scoring Santiago Espinal
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Danny Jansen whacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Randal Grichuk that scored George Springer
• A batter later, Teoscar Hernandez scored on a ground out by Gurriel Jr.
• Kolby Allard pitching line: 5.1IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 1K 88 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 7IP 3H 0R 1BB 4K 83 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rangers 0

My Take (1st game):

• Hyun-Jin Ryu was excellent, throwing a three hit complete game shutout while walking one and striking out 4. His pitch count was good enough that he would have started the 8th and potentially had a chance at a 9-inning complete game.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays were opportunistic with three of the 4 runs scoring on outs (2 ground outs and a sac fly). Unlikely hero Danny Jansen smacked one out of the ball park.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Randal Grichuk (although he did have an RBI on a sac fly) and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the second half of the double header. Steven Matz gets the start against Rangers righty Mike Foltynewicz

Game Highlights (2nd game):

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez doubled scoring Bo Bichette 
• A batter later, Randal Grichuk singled home George Springer]
• Two batters later, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hammered a grand slam to left-center; also scoring Hernandez, Grichuk and Cavan Biggio
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. crushed a solo bomb to left-center
• A batter later, Springer smashed a solo blast to left
• Two batters later, Grichuk cracked a 2-run shot to left; also scoring Hernandez
• Mike Foltynewicz pitching line: 1.2IP 8H 10R (all earned) 2BB 0K 42 pitches (26 foir strikes)
• Steven Matz pitching line: 5IP 3H 0R 0BB 2K 68 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Rangers 0

My Take (2nd game):

• Steven Matz was strong, throwing 5 shutout innings, scattering three hits and striking out 2, He could have gone the distance too but Charlie Montoyo wanted to get Rafael Dolis and Taylor Saucedo some work. Those two combined to strike out 2 in the final 2 innings and Dolis allowed the only baserunner on a leadoff walk.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays exploded for 10 runs on 8 hits and a pair of walks in the first 2 innings, highlighted by a grand slam by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and back-to-back solo shots by Vlad and Springe in the 2nd inning and capped off by a 2-run shot by Grichuk.
• Every Blue Jays starter, except Bo Bichette, Cavan Biggio (although he drew a walk) and Reese McGuire had at least one hit.
• The Blue Jays were 3-3 with runners in scoring position. they had just one more base runner after Randal Grichuk's 2-run shot in the 2nd inning with 2 out (a leadoff walk to Hernandez in the 5th inning)
• Up next, the Blue Jays open up the final series in Buffalo before they return to Toronto on July 30 vs. Kansas City. It will be the first series in Toronto since September27-29 vs. Tampa Bay, a series they would win. They will take on the Red Sox, who have won 5 of the 9 games in the season series so far, but the Blue Jays have outscored the Red Sox 57-36. Ross Stripling gets the start against Red Sox righty Nick Pivetta

Game #89,#90 Odorless Rangers (35-56) vs. Toronto Blue MVPs (46-42)

 

Game #88 Texas Rangers (35-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (46-42) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero whacked a pair of HR, drove in 4 runs and scored 3 times in a 10-2 rout over the Rangers

The Blue Jays kcked off the unofficial start to the 2nd half of the season with a weekend set against the Rangers, who took 2 of 3 in Arlington back in April. Both teams scored 11 runs in Texas. The Blue Jays head into the season's 2nd half chasing a wild card spot. They are 3rd in the AL East, 8 games back of Boston for 1st in the AL East. They are 4.5 games back of Oakland for the 2nd WC spot and are also tied with Cleveland, who they will face at home August 2-5. Joel Payamps was DFA'd to make room for Ryan Borucki, who was actvated off the IL. The Blue Jays are one step closer to returning home July 30. The Federal government signed a national interest exemption that would allow the Blue Jays return to Toronto. Apparently the Minister of Immigrationis the last one who needs to sign off on the deal. Robbie Ray got the start (he also pitched the final game before the allstar break, throwing a 1-hitter and taking a no-hitter into the 7th. Ray struck out 11). Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. served as DH with George Springer in CF, Teoscar Hernandez in LF and Randal Grichuk in RF. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the second half with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smashed a solo blast to left-center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Marcus Semien crushed a solo bomb to left
• Four batters later, Teoscar Hernandez annihilated a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Randal Grichuk whacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Bo Bichette singled home Marcus Semien 
• Jordan Lyles pitching line: 4IP 7H 6R (all earned) 3BB 3K 95 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Bichette singled scoring Reese McGuire
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. hammered a 3-run bomb to left; also scoring Semien and Bichette 
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6.2IP 4H 0R 2BB 8K 100 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Rangers got a pair back in the top of the 9th as Ekli White hammered a 2-run bomb to dead  center; also scoring Nate Lowe 
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Rangers 2

My Take:

• Robbie Ray picked up where he left off, throwing 6.2 shutout innings, allowing 4 hits, walking 2 and striking out 8. He retired the first five batters before losing the strike zone for a couple of batters before inducing a soft grounder to escape the inning. He retired 9 in a row at one point.
• The all-stars (Vladdy, Bo, Marcus and Teo) did the damage offensively, combining to go 7-16 with 9 RBI and 8 runs scored. Vlad hit 2 home runs, Teo had a 2-run blast, Bo singled home a pair and Semien singled one home as well. Personally, I can't wait to see what this lineup does in Toronto in a couple of weeks - you know, where these players signed up to play and not a facility built for AAA-ball?
• Every Blue Jay except Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who drew a walk, and George Springer had at least one hit.
• Ryan Borucki allowed a hit and struck out 2 in his first game back since May 7 with a forearm strain. There has to be concern about the injury, given Borucki has already been through TJ surgery.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to open the second half with a series win. It will be a battle of the lefties with Hyun-Jin Ryu going up against Rangers lefty Kolby Allard

Game #88 Odorless Rangers (35-55) vs. Toronto Blue MVPs (45-42)

 

Ten random thoughts at the All-star break and the (unofficial) midway point of the 2021 MLB season

 

Here we are, the unofficial halfway point of the 2021 MLB season. Time for a look back and a look ahead to the rest of the season and the trade deadline. Expectations were high after the Blue Jays squeaked into the extended playoffs as the final Wild card team. There was much excitement over the signing of George Springer, who was expected to be the first legit leadoff hitter since Jose Reyes was the man at the top of the batting order. The rotation was a bit deeper with the addition of lefty Steven Matz. Marcus Semien was an interesting addition to the infield. Kurby Yates was expected to anchor the bullpen and close. Then reality hit and a slew of injuries to the bullpen that forced Charlie Montoyo to use pitchers in roles they weren't ideal for. Springer suffered an oblique injury in spring training and a quad injury that would keep him out of the lineup essentially until June. Yates barely threw a pitch before requiring season-ending Tommy John surgery. Virtually every reliever, except Tim Mayza either spent time on the IL or was demoted to the Alt squad or AAA-ball. The Blue Jays made critical errors defensively that would cost them several games. The Blue Jays even had a crisis at the catcher position when Danny Jansen went down with a strained hamstring, leaving Reese McGuire and Riley Adams as the healthy catching options. Here are ten random thoughts at the midway point of the 2021 season.

1. Let's kick things off by looking at the off-season acquisitions and players who went elsewhere. The big acquisition was the signing of free agent George Springer, who was expected to bat leadoff and play CF. Unfortunately, he spent the first 2 months of the season on the IL with an oblique injury that was expected to keep him out the first couple of weeks of the season. Then Springer strained a quad running the bases as he neared a return from the oblique strain. He came back for 4 games as DH, getting three hits including a pair of HR against the Braves May 1. He tweaked the quad again and missed the next 6 weeks before finally returning June 22. Springer missed playing against his former team and will now have to wait until 2022 to face the Astros. He has played 20 games, half as DH and half in the field. Hopefully he can play more games in the field in the second half.

Kirby Yates was supposed to be the closer who replaced Ken Giles, who had Tommy John surgery himself in September 2020 and signed with Seattle in the off-season. Ironically, Yates would barely throw a pitch before needing TJ surgery himself. Jordan Romano has done a great job as closer, with 7 saves and a sparkling 1.93ERA in 33 games. Rafael Dolis has also contributed with 3 saves, but he must give Charlie Montoyo heartburn trying to get three outs. 

Tommy Millone was inked to be a fifth-starter/long reliever. Unfortunately, he went down May 27 with left shoulder inflammation. He is on a rehab assignment so he could be a recall option soon. In 6 games, Millone is 1-0 with a 6.43ERA. 

Marcus Semien has been among the greatest successes this season. He is the undisputed leadoff hitter and has been steady defensively, mostly at SS. In 87 games, Semien is batting .277 with 22HR and 56 RBI.

Tyler Chatwood, currently on the 10-day-IL, has been a disappointment. The hope was he could regain the form that made him an effective pitcher earlier in his career. Chatwood is 1-2 with an ugly 5.46 ERA in 30 games with 20 walks. Worse, he's reacted badly a couple of times when Montoyo  came to remove him from games, appearing to show up his manager. Hopefully the recent acquisitions and future acquisitions at the trade deadline push Chatwood to a lesser role. At this point, I wouldn't put Chatwood on a potential playoff roster.

Turning to the 2020 players now playing elsewhere, we begin with corner infielder Travis Shaw, who played the corner infield positions during his time with the Blue Jays. The biggest impact his departure has been defensively. Cavan Biggio has played the bulk of the games at the hot corner, along with Joe Panik, who was recently traded to Miami for Adam Cimber, Combined, Espinal, Panik and Biggio have committed 18 errors this season. You can't give teams extra ABs

Acquired at the trade deadline last season, Jonathan Villar split time playing 2B and SS over 22 games. He batted .188 and drove in 6 runs. I would say Semien has been a more than adequate replacement. Villar signed on with the Mets and is batting .235 with 1 HR and 9RBI over 68 gsames. He's committed 6 errors.

One player the Blue Jays are probably wishing they had resigned is righty Taijuan Walker. The ex-Mariners draft pick is heading to the all-star game and has been one of the bright spots for the Mets. Walker is 7-3 with a 2.50ERA over 16 starts. Certainly he might have pitched deeper into games and perhaps the Blue Jays don't go to the bullpen as soon a couple of starts. 

The Blue Jays made the right decision to let Matt Shoemaker go. He's having a terrible season in Minnesota with a 3-8 record and a brutal 8.06ERA.

2. September 29, 2019. That is the last day the Blue Jays played an MLB game in Toronto. A little global pandemic forced the Blue Jays to play out of Buffalo for 2020 and since June 1st this season (they played the first two months out of Dunedin). For the most part, the Blue Jays have done well in their temporary homes, going 17-9 and outscoring opponents 159-136 in 2020 and 19-20 while outscoring opponents 223-194. There were no fans allowed in the stands so there was no such thing as home field advantage, other than having last AB. Often times in 2021 however, home games have looked and sounded like away games with the opponents seeming to have more fans. The border being closed to nonessential traffic hasn't helped, meaning the Blue Jays had to rely on snowbirds who flew down south anyway. At this time, July 30 is the target date for the Blue Jays returning to Toronto, that will largely be dependent on the border being reopened. Don't be surprised if that date is pushed back to September 1st with vaccination rates being a key factor.

3. Three Blue Jays who have impressed:

• Marcus Semien - Signed to 1 year $18 million dollar contract, Semien was expected to bat lower in the lineup with George Springer in the leadoff spot. That all changed when Springer pulleed his oblique. Semien has been in the leadoff spot and done a solid job, batting .277 with 22HR and 56RBI. He's gotten on base .345% of the time. Semien is the first Blue Jays SS to make the all-star team since Tony Fernandez in 1989 (Fernandez made the All-star game as a Blue Jay a decade later, but as a 3B).
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. - At the beginning of the season, one of the MLB reporters predicted that Vlad would win the MVP award this season. Signed as a free agent amateur in 2015, Guerrero Jr. has mirrored his father of the same name who is a hall-of-famer. Both Guerrero's hit 50HR in 258 games. If you look at their swings, they look remarkably similar. Vlad goes into the all-star break leading the league in average (.332), RBI (73), on-base% (.430), times on base (161), runs created (89),is 2nd in HR (28) and total bases (208) and 3rd in extra-base hits (46). Defensively, he is 5th in the league with an impressive .993 fielding%. Oh, and Vlad lead the league in number of all-star votes.
• Reese McGuire - This was a tough choice between a catcher who looked like his career with the Blue Jays was over after an awful 2020 campaign at the plate and a trade acquisition in Robbie Ray, who has blossomed into the Blue Jays best pitcher. Ray took a no-hitter into the 7th inning on Sunday so he gets an honorable mention. Reese McGuire gets the nod here though. Acquired in a 2016 trade with Pittsburgh, along with Francisco Liriano and Harold Ramirez for Drew Hutchison, McGuire started 2020 as backup to Danny Jansen. He had a brutal year at the plate with just 3 hits in 41 AB over 19 games. He was gifted another opportunity in the majors when Alejandro Kirk went down with a hip flexor injury that would keep Kirk out until the all-star break (Kirk was recently activated off the 60-day IL but is being kept in AAA ball for more playing time). McGuire took full advantage of the opportunity, batting .278 with 1 HR and 6RBI over 41 games. His place on the roster likely hinges on his bat continuing to be productive because Kirk and #6 prospect Gabriel Moreno are knocking on the door.

4. Three Blue Jays who have disappointed:

• Nate Pearson - The Blue Jays #1 prospect cannot stay healthy. Pearson has made just one start all season and it was ugly: 3 runs on 4 hits and 5 walks  and no strikeouts over 2.1 innings. He's on the shelf with a groin injury and is in the process of seeking a third opinion. The big thing is to get him healthy, even if surgery is required. After that, he should start in AAA-ball and prove himself there before he is recalled to the big club. Pearson has been mentioned in a few trade rumors too.
• Tyler Chatwood - Signed to a one-year deal, Chatwood has had some brutal outings this season that have cost the Blue Jays wins. His last game, Chatwood retired 2 batters, but gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and walked 2. Six days earlier, he allowed 3 hits on 1 hit and 2 walks. On May 30 vs. Cleveland, Chatwood walked five batters and gave up 2 runs and a hit. Five days later, Chatwood did not retire a batter and gave up 5 runs on 6 hits. More concerning is Chatwood has reacted poorly when Montoyo came to remove him from the game. Chatwood's on the IL with a neck strain, but when he returns he may not get many high leverage situations
• Rafael Dolis - It's been more of the same from the former Cubs closer, who is among the slowest working pitchers. All that time collecting himself hasn't helped his pitch efficiency or walks. Dolis routinely takes 20+ pitches to get through an inning. He has also had injury concerns this season with complaints of lack of feeling in his pitching hand. He's blown 1 save this season.

5. It's a bit difficult to really compare this season to last season, so let's look at where the Blue Jays are compared to 2019, the last time there was a full 162-game season. in 2019, the Blue Jays went into the all-star break with a 34-57 record. This season, the Blue Jays are 45-42 at the break. A couple of interesting stats. The Blue Jays are 6-10 in 1-run games and 14-9 in blowouts (defined as 5+ run differential). The Blue Jays are an even 3-3 in 7-inning double-headers (the MLB kept the 2020 rule of double headers being 7 innings each). The Blue Jays are 2-5 in extra inning games. So what does all this tell us? The bullpen has been less than adquate, which is a crying shame considering the juggernaut that is the Blue Jays offense. Another key stat is the interdivisional recaord. Against teams from the AL East, the Blue Jays are 21-22. They have done the worst against the Rays (5-8) and the best against the Orioles (6-3). 

6. OK, let's take a look at the remaining schedule. As it stands, the Blue Jays are 3rd in the AL East, 8 games back of Boston for the division. They are 4.5 back of the 2nd WC spot, currently held by Oakland, who they face at home Sep 3-5. They face Seattle, currently 3.5 games back of the 2nd WC spot Aug 13-15 in Seattle. They'll take on Cleveland, who they're tied with in the WC standings Aug 2-6 at home. Coming out of the all-star break, the Blue Jays play 6 straight through July 21, then they play 16 straight through Aug 6.  The Blue Jays have 75 games left, 42 of which are at home and 34 vs. the AL East (10 each vs. Boston and Baltimore, 6 vs. TB and 8 against the Yankees). To me, the toughest stretch will be Sep 13-30 where they face the Rays (3 home 3 away) Yankees (3 home) and Twins (3 home 4 away) in a brutal 17 game in 18 day stretch. Strap yourselves in guys, the stretch drive will not be easy.

7. After the all-star game is done, the Blue Jays will be starting to think about the trade deadline. They've already made a couple of moves to shore up the bullpen, sending Rowdy Tellez to the Brewers for Trevor Richards and Joe Panik to Miamu for Adam Cimber. The bullpen and potentially an extra starting pitcher would appear to be what the Blue Jays would need. Expect the Blue Jays to be buyers, given they are reasonably close to the 2nd WC spot and still have to face the teams they are tied with and/or trailing. They could include an outfielder, such as Randal Grichuk ot Lourdes Gurriel Jr., especially since they got Corey Dickerson from Miami in the deal that sent Joe Panik the other way. The Blue Jays are also flush with catchers and may include one of Danny Jansen, Reese McGuire or Alejandro Kirk in a deal. Players they may target include Craig Kimbrel, Jose Berros or Greg Holland. The Royals, Diamondbacks, Marlins, Pirates, Rangers, and Orioles will be definite sellers. Other teams may opt to sell as well if they get off to poor second half starts.

8. The 2021 baseball draft was held yesterday and today. I profess I no ZERO about the prospects, but I will say this: this year's draft was unique in that amateur sports was largely shut down in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic that rampsged through the wotld and continues to affect so many people. It was interesting to see how teams came to their decisions with a lost year of sports. The players in the various minor league systems lost a year of development with the minor league system shut down for 2020. You have to wonder how that will affect their prospects of making the majors.

9. Finally, talk about a reversal of fortunes in the AL East. The Boston Red Sox are leading the AL East and close to getting their ace Chris Sale back from TJ surgery. At the other end of the spectrum, the NY Yankees are battling the Baltimore Orioles for the basement in the AL East. Their offemse has completely let them down with no batter hitting .300. They've also seen Gerritt Cole and Aroldis Chapmant implode since the crackdown on foreign substance use by pitchers. 

10: Blue Jay of the 1st half: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Who else could it be but Vlad, who has a chance at a triple crown. He leads the AL in RBI and average and is just 4HR back of Shohei Ohtani for the AL lead. Shy's the limit for the protogee to hall-of-famer Vladimir Guerrero, who, by the way, was going to play for the Blue Jays in 2012 but was instead released.

2021 Home Run Derby

Game #87 Toronto Blue Jays (45-42) @ Tampa Bay Rays (53-37) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray threw 7 shutout innings in a 3-1 victory over the Rays

After dropping the first two games of the last series before the all-star break, the Blue Jays were looking to end the first half (unofficial) with a win. Robbie Ray got the start. Vlad got the half day off, serving as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Randal Grichuk was given the full day off with George Springer back in CF, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Could the Blue Jays end the first half of the season with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Danny Jansen whacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Santiago Espinal singled home Teoscar Hernandez
• A batter later, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. scored on a sac fly by Cavan Biggio
• Rich Hill pitching line: 5IP 4H 3R (all earned) 3BB 2K 68 pitches (41 for strikes)
• Robboe Ray pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 11K 103 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Rays broke the shutout bid in the 9th as Brandon Lowe hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Jordan Roman pitched the 9th for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Rays 1

My Take:

• Robbie Ray was excellent in this one, taking a no-hit bid into the 7th inning. His final line: 7 shutout innings, 1 hit , 1 walk, 11 strikeouts. He's the most improved pitcher.
• Unfortunate that Jordan Romano gave up a solo blast to ruin the shutout bid.
• It was unlikely heroes that provided the offense today. Danny Jansen hit a solo shot, Santiago Espinal singled home another run and a third run crossed the plate on a sac fly by Cavan Biggio. Santiago was excellent, getting three hits
• Up next, the all-star break. Vlad, Bo, Marcus Semien and Teoscar Hernandez head to Coors Field in Denver to play in the all-star game. The game was initially supposed to be in Atlanta but it was moved after the state of Georgia passed a controversial voting rights law. The Blue Jays open the second half Friday at home vs. the Rangers, who took 2/3 at Arlington. Both teams scored 11 runs in that series. Righty Jordan Lyles will start for Texas and the Blue Jays will likely counter with ace Hyun-Jin Ryu.

Game #87 Tampa Bay Devil Magic (53-36) vs. Toronto Blue JAAAAys (44-42)

 

Hit Bull Win Steak

Game #86 Toronto Blue Jays (44-42) @ Tampa Bay Rays (53-36) - game recap

 

Marcus Semien hit a 2-run HR in a 5-2 loss to the Rays

After a lacklustre effort all-around the Blue Jays were looking to get back on track and even the final series before the all-star break. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Espinal Santiago was at the hot corner. George Springer got the half day off as the DH with Randal Grichuk in CF, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Could the Blue Jays set up a rubber match Sunday? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Brandon Lowe led off with a solo blast to right-center 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 2nd as Marcus Semien smashed a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Santiago Espinal
• The Rays tied the games in the bottom half of the inning as Mike Zunino smashed a solo blast to left
• Two batters later, Lowe hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Kevin Kiermaier 
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 3.1IP 4H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 73 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Ryan Yarborough pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 104 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Randy Arozarena singled home Austin Meadows
• Diego Castillo pitched a scoreless 9th for his 13th save of the season
• Final score: Rays 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• It was a rough one for Ross Stripling, who was hurt by the long ball today, giving up three balls that left the yard for four runs. Honestly, he was pitching in and out of trouble all day. Just one of those days where not everything was working for him.
• The bullpen had mixed results today. Anthony Kay walked a couple of batters but escaped the jam. Trevor Richards was excellent striking out 4 in 1.2 innings. Tim Mayza struck out one, but the singled he allowed in the 8th came around to score. Jordan Romano was a questionable choice with one game left to play tomorrow and he threw 20 pitches. Romano gave up a couple of hits and walked a batter before escaping the jam, helped by a pair of strikeouts. 
• Offensively, it was more of the same as last night. Marcus Semien briefly gave the Blue Jays the lead, but the Rays countered with three in the bottom half of the inning and the Blue Jays couldn't scrape another run across the board. The Blue Jays were an abysmal 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Vladimir Guerrero had has hitting streak snapped but kept the on base streak alive with a walk
• Danny Jansen struck out in both AB's and Reese McGuire doubled. It will be interesting to see if the Blue Jays opt to recall Alejandro Kirk after the all-star break or if a catcher is moved at the trade deadline.
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the pre-all-star break schedule. It will be a battle of the lefties with Robbie Ray pitching against Rays lefty Rich Hill