Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Game #77 Seattle Mariners (41-39) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-36) - game recap

 

Marcus Semien drove in 5 runs and scored twice in a 9-3 shellacking of the Mariners. He was a triple short of the cycle

After taking three of four from the Orioles, the Blue Jays opened a three game set against the Mariners. In 2019, the Mariners won 4 of the 6 games in the season seties, outscoring the Blue Jays 29-22. The Blue Jays made a trade with the Marlins hours before the game acquiring outfielder Corey Dickerson and sidewinder righty reliever Adam Cimber for Joe Panik and minor league righty Andrew McInvale. The Blue Jays won't need to deal with the crowded outfield immediately with Dickerson headed to the 10-day IL with a left foot contusion. Cimber will be the first submarine pitcher in the Blue Jays bullpen since Joe Smith in 2017. This season, Cimber is 1-2 with a 2.33ERA in 33 appearances this season. He hasn't given up a long ball and has walked 11 baters while striking out 21. Joe Panik has been a utility player this season, spelling off players when they need a day off or were DH'ing. He saw time at 3B, 2B and 1B. Panik comitted 5 errors while at the hot corner. Panik hit .246 with 2HR and 11RBI this season in 114 AB (114PA). Dickerson hit .260 with 2HR and 14RBI in 204 AB (224PA) over 62 games this season. Lefty Travis Bergen was DFA'd. Jomathan Davis was recalled. Robbie Ray got the start. Randal Grichuk got the half day off serving as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr in LF, George Springer in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner tonight. Could the Blue Jays makr it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Marcus Semien doubled scoring Randal Grichuk and Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a sac fly by Cavan Biggio that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • The Mariners tied the game in the top of the 6th on a three-run bomb to dead center that also scored JP Crawford and Mitch Hanigar
  • Chris Flexen pitching line: 5IP 7H 3R (all earned) 3BB 2K 89 strikes (54 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette smashed a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Reese McGuire and Semien
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 10K 90 pitches (62 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th as Semien smashed a 3-run bomb off the left foul pole; also scoring Jonathan Davis and Reese McGuire
  • Final score: Blue Jays 9 Mariners 3

My Take:

  • Robbie Ray threw 6 solid innings, really only running into trouble in his last inning when he gave up three hits, including a game-tying 3-run bomb. Ray struck out 10 batters. At one point he retired 14 in a row
  • The bullpen was solid,giving up three hits and a walk while striking out 4 over the final 3 innings
  • Offensively, Marcus Semien drove in 5 runs and was a triple short of the cycle. Bo Bichette also contributed a 3-run bomb. Reese McGuire scored twice
  • Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit
  • The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 4th straight series win. They've won 8 of ten in the current stretch and really should have ten straight wins, but the bullpen blew a couple of games late. Tomorrow will be a battle of the lefties. Steven Matz makes his return from the COVID-19 IL list. The Mariners will counter with southpaw Justus Sheffield

Game #77 M's (41-38) vs. Blue Jorges (40-36)

 


Sunday, June 27, 2021

Game #76 Baltimore Orioles (24-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-36) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in two runs and scored a run in a 5-2 victory over the Orioles

After a beat down of the Orioles last night, the Blue Jays wrapped up the weekend series with their AL East rivals and were looking for the series win. Ross Stripling was on the bump and looking to maintain his improved play in recent starts. George Springer got the half day off, serving as DH with Randal Grichuk in CF, Teoscar Hernandez in LF and Cavan Biggio in RF. Joe Panik was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays  make it two in a row over the Orioles? Here is today's game recap.

Game #76 Trash Birds (24-53) vs. Blue Jorges (39-36)

 

Saturday, June 26, 2021

Game #75 Baltimore Orioles (24-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-36) - game recap

  

Teoscar Hernandes was 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBI in a 12-4 blowout win over the Orioles

After the bullpen laid another egg, blowing a strong start from rookie Alek Manoah, the Blue Jays were right back at it, trying to take the lead in the weekend series. Ace Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start. Santiago Espinal got the start at the hot corner, Teoscar Hernandez was in RF and Randal Grichuk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays take control of this weekend series with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #75 Trash Birds (24-52) vs. Blue Jorges (38-36)

 

Game #74 Baltimore Orioles (24-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (38-36) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was 3-4 with a run scored and an RBI in a 6-5 loss to the Orioles

After a huge shutout win over the Orioles on the back of 9 runs over the first three innings last night and a decent pitching performance by Anthony Kay, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 6 straight wins overall and 4 straight over the Orioles. It's uncanny how horrible a baseball squad the Orioles have been over the past 5 years. They have finished dead last in the AL East 3 of 5 years. Their best year in that span was 2016 when they finished 2nd in the AL East and lost the WC game to the Blue Jays after a dumb decision to leave Zach Britton warming up in the bullpen. In two of those seasons, the Orioles had over 100 losses. This season, they are in the basement again and 21.5 games back of the 1st place Tampa Bay Rays. They are exhibit A for why tanking DOES NOT WORK!!! This will be an interesting start for Alek Manoah, who was ejected from his last start after hitting Orioles 3B Mikael Franco, leading to a bench clearing brawl. Manoah was suspended 5 games, but appealed the decision. Teoscar Hernandez got the half day off serving as DH with George Springer back in CF, Randal Grichuk in RF and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays extend the winning streak to 6 games? Here is today's game recap.

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Game #72 Baltimore Orioles (23-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (38-35) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hit a grand slam in a 9-0 shutout win over the Orioles

After sweeping the Marlins, the Blue Jays looked to keep their streak going against the Orioles, who they won 2 straight against a week ago to begin the current win streak. Anthony Kay got the start in place of Steven Matz, who remains on th COVID IL list. Vlad got the half day off serving as the DH with Joe Panik at 1B. Reese McGuire was behind the plaThte. Cavan Biggio got the start at the hot corner. George Springer sat out completely with Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in LF after sitting out yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it five straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Marcus Seminen
  • A batter later, Bo Bichette scored on a ground out by Randal Grichuk
  • Two batters later, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hammered a grand slam to left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Cavan Biggio and Hernandez
  • Dean Kremer pitching line: 0.1IP 2H 6R (all earned) 5BB 0K 39 pitches (17 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Guerrero Jr. smashed a solo blast to left-center 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Semien doubled home Reese McGuire 
  • A batter later, Bichette doubled scoring Semien
  • Anthony Kay pitching line: 5IP 5H 0R 2BB 8K 95 pitches (62 for strikes)
  • Final score: Blue Jays 9 Orioles 0

My Take:

  • Anthony Kay had a stressful start, pitching his way in and out of trouble all night. While he didn't give up any runs, he had to deal with base runners on base in every inning but the 4th. The one thing he had going for him was enough nastiness to get a strikeoit when he needed it. In order for him to remain in the rotation, he needs to be more consistent and economical with his pitches. Steven Matz looks like he'll be ready to rejoin the rotation after a stint with COVID-19. He threw 60 pitches in the bullpen today.
  • The bullpen gave up 2 hits and a walk and struck out 2 over the final 4 innings
  • The Blue Jays jumped all over Orioles starter Dean Kremer, drawing 5 walks and 2 hits, including a Lourdes Gurriel Jr. grand slam. The Orioles righty only managed to record 1 out.
  • Every Blue Jays starter except Cavan Biggio, Randal Grichuk and Joe Panik had at least one hit
  • The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 6th straight win overall and 4th straight win vs. the Orioles. Alek Manoah gets the start against Orioles righty Matt Harvey

Game #73 Trash Birds (23-51) vs. Blue Jorges (37-35)

 



What has 4 wheels and flies? A garbage truck.

Game #72 Toronto Blue Jays (37-35) @ Miami Marlins (31-42) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray threw 6 strong innings in a 3-1 victory over the Marlins

After a late inning win over the Marlins, the Blue Jays wrapped up the road trip and season series with the Mami-based MLB squad. Same lineup as yesterday except Riley Adams was behind the plate and Robbie Ray was on the bump and Randal Grichuk was in RF and Teoscar Hernandez was in LF. This recap's going to be a wee bit shorter as I did not get time to start it before I left and I got a zoom meeting for my volunteer job in less than an hour. Could the Blue Jays complete the season series sweep of the Marlins and win their 4th game in a row? 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 Bo Bichette 
  • A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a groundout by George Springer
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Bichette singled scoring Marcus Semien
  • Trevor Rogers pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 6K 83 pitches (52 for strikes)
  • The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Starling Marte hammered a solo bomb to- left-center
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
  • Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 5th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 3 Marlins 1

My Take:

  • Robbie Ray had a solid game, allowing 1 run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. He kept the Marlins to a solo shot and 3 singles, a walk and a fielding error by Cavan Biggio. Only one Marlin got into scoring position.
  • The bullpen was also solid, allowing just a 9th inning double that was stranded at 3rd base. They combined to strike out 3 over the final 3 innings
  • Tonight, the Blue Jays jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the 1st inning and added a run in the 5th
  • Every starter except George Springer (although he drew a 9th inning walk and got an RBI on a ground out in the 1st), Riley Adams and Robbie Ray had at least one hit tonight
  • Springer fielded two balls today
  • Up next, the Blue Jays open a four game series vs. the Orioles. They took 2 of 3 in Baltimore last weekend. Anthony Kay gets the start against Oroles righty Dean Kremer

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Game #71 Toronto Blue Jays (36-35) @ Miami Marlins (31-40) - game recap


Lourdes Gurriel Jr. drove in the winning run in the 9th as the Blue Jays edged the Marlins 2-1 

At long last, George Springer made his return from the IL after missing 67 games with a quad injury. He came back as DH for 4 games but reinjured the quad. Signed to a huge $150 million in the off-season, the Blue Jays lineup will be that much more lethal. Springer was in CF and batted 5th today. Alek Manoah was suspended 5 games for throwing at Orioles 3B Maikel Franco and causing a bench-clearing brawl. He's appealing the decision. Manager Charlie Montoyo was suspended a game and served the suspension tonight. Nate Pearson strained his right groin. Jacob Barnes was also added to the roster. Rowdy Tellez and Jonathan Davis were optioned to AAA. Ross Stripling got the start. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Marlins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jesus Sanchez hammered a solo bombto dead center 
  • The Blue Jaysa tied the game in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bo Bichette 
  • Ross Stripling pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K91 pitches (59 for strikes)
  • Sandy Alcantara pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 86 pitches (55 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in thw top of the 9th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. doubled scoring Cavan Biggio
  • Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 2 Marlins 1

My Take:

  • Ross Stripling was excellent, allowing a run on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. He retired the first 5 batters he faced and was consistently pitching to contact. 
  • George Springer's first game back was encouraging in that he completed the game. He was 0-4 at the plate and stranded 2 runners. He did not get an opportunity to test the quad in the field as no balls were hit his way, other than the HR he had no chance on
  • The Blue Jays bullpen was rock solid, allowing 1 hit in the 9th that was erased by Reese McGuire throwing out Starling Marte at 2nd base.
  • The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for 4 straight wins and a season series sweep over the Marlins. Tomorrow will be a battle of the lefties as Robbie Ray pitches against Marlins southpaw Trevor Rogers

Game #71 Fish (31-40) vs. Blue Jorges (35-35)

 


Sunday, June 20, 2021

Game #70 Toronto Blue Jays (35-35) @ Baltimore Orioles (23-48) - game recap

 

Reese McGuire was 4-5 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI in a 7-4 come-from-behind victory over the Orioles

First off, happy father's day to our male readers. After a HUGE come from behnd win yesterday on the back of scoring 6 runs with 2 outs in the 9th, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two in a row. Teoscar Hernandez made his return to the lineup after his paternity leave expired and served as DH. Jared Hoying was optioned to AAA. Ace Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the field after missing a day yesterday after tweaking his back on a swing. Could the Blue Jays nmake it two in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Trey Mancini hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 5th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Reese McGuire
  • Two batter later, Teoscar Hernandez doubled scoring Bichette
  • A batter later, Randal Grichuk singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • A batter after that, Cavan Biggio singled home Hernandez
  • Matt Harvey pitching line: 41IP 9H 4R (all earned) 2BB 4K 84 pitches (55 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as McGuire doubled scoring Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
  • Two batters later, Bichette singled home McGuire 
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 7IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 100 pitches (67 for strikes)
  • The Orioles got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Pedro Severino smashed a solo blast to left
  • Three batters later, Mancini crushed a two-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Pat Valaika
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as McGuire doubled scoring Grichuk
  • Tyler Chatwood pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 7 Orioles 4

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu had a solid start, giving up 2 hits in the 1st inning, including a solo HR and just 2 other base runners the next 6 innings (a one out single in the 2nd and a 2-out walk in the 5th). He seemed to have everything working today and was getting a lot of soft contact
  • The bullpen bent but didn't break. Trent Thornton gave up 3 runs on a pair of home runs in the 8th and Tyler Chatwood walked the first batter he face on 4 pitches but retired the next three batters to end the game. Jordan Romano, not surprisingly, was unavailable after pitching 2 innings yesterday. The options late in the game are still limited with several relievers still on the shelf
  • The offense was essentially 2 big innings. They put a 4-spot on the board in the 5th and 2 more in the 8th plus an insurance run in the 9th
  • Reese McGuire is certainly making a case to remain on the roster when Alejandro Kirk and Danny Jansen return from the injury list. He was 4-5 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI today
  • Every Blue Jays starter, except Marcus Semien and Santiago Espinal had at least one hit today and Espinal drew a walk
  • The Blue Jays were 7-19 withe runners in scoring position. They got nothing out of a bases loaded situation in the 1st inning
  • Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays head to Miami for a mini 2-game series. They swept the series in Buffalo at the beginning of the month. Ross Stripling starts Tuesday against Marlins righty Sandy Alcantara

Game #70 Shit Birds (23-47) vs. Blue Jays (34-35)

 

Saturday, June 19, 2021

Game #69 Toronto Blue Jays (34-35) @ Baltimore Orioles (23-47) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled home the game-winning runs in a 10-7 come-from-behind win over the Orioles

After another meltdown by the bullpen led to a blowout loss to the Orioles, the Blue Jays were looking to get right back at it and snap the 5 game skid. Alek Manoah got the start. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was given the day off after appearing to strain his lower back on a swing. This meant Jared Hoying made his MLB debut. Bo Bichette got the half day off, serving as DH with Joe Panik at 2B. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Marcus Semien led off the game with a solo bomb to left
  • Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drilled a solo shot to dead center 
  • The Orioles got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Ryan Mountcastle crushed a solo bomb to straightaway center 
  • The Orioles tied the game in the bottom of the 3rd as Cedric Mullins cracked a solo blast to right-center 
  • The Orioles took the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Mountcastle bashed a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Trey Mancini
  • A batter later, DJ Stewart smashed a solo bomb to right-center 
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 3.1IP 4H 5R (all earned) 1BB 6K 69 pitches (44 for strikes)
  • The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Mountcastle hammered a solo bomb to left
  • Dean Kremer pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 6K 90 pitches (52 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a double play ball hit by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. that scored Joe Panik
  • The Orioles added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Cedric Mullins cranked a solo bkast to right-center
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Semien smacked a solo blast to left
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th on a bases loaded walk to Semien that forced in Cavan Biggio
  • A batter later, Bo Bichette singled scoring Gurriel Jr. and Santiago Espinal
  • A batter after that, Guerrero Jr. doubled home Semien and Bichette 
  • A batter later, Randal Grichuk doubled scoring Guerrero Jr.
  • Final score: Blue Jays 10 Orioles 7

My Take:

  • Not a great outing for the rookie Blue Jays righty. Alek Manoah gave up 4 home runs (3 solo shots and a 2-run shot) and hit a batter. He was ejected after a bench clearing brawl ensued after he hit Maikel Franco. Supposedly the umps weren;t impressed with the way Manoah acted/wanted to avoid any retaliation by the Orioles. Surely Charlie Montoyo will give him a good talking to after the game.
  • After so many games where the bullpen laid an egg, it must have felt good to beat up on another team's bullpen. After falling behind 5-2 after 4 innings, the Blue Jays slowly chipped away at the lead with solo shots in the 7th and 8th innings. The 9th inning was more impressive. The batters showed patience, drawing walks, fouling off pitches to stay alive and then taking advantage of the bad pitches. The best part? Zero home runs. Good teams can manufacture runs in ways other than a home run. Even better, all five runs were scored with the Blue Jays down to their final out. Hopefully this comeback win is a confidence booster 
  • It was good to see Lourdes Gurriel Jr. enter the game after being injured yesterday. The Blue Jays are a bit short with Teoscar Hernandez and Jonathan Davis both tending to their wives who both had bouncing baby boys 
  • The bullpen held the Orioles to a pair of solo shots plus three more hits and a walk over the final 5.2 innings and struck out 6
  • Up next, the rubber match and final game before an off-day. Blue Jays ace Hyun-jin Ryu pitches against Orioles righty Matt Harvey

Game #69 Shit Birds (23-46) vs. Blue Jays (33-35)

 


Friday, June 18, 2021

Game #68 Toronto Blue Jays (33-35) @ Baltimore Orioles (23-46) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hit a solo HR in a 7-1 loss to the Orioles

After being swept by the Yankees, the Blue Jays hit the road to Baltimore to begin their season series against the Orioles. Last season, the Blue Jays were 8-2 against the Orange birds from Maryland and outscored the AL East rivals 58-50. Robbie Ray got the start. Ray won his last start and has at aleast 10 strikeouts in hs last two starts. TJ Zeuch was optioned to AAA and Anthony Kay was recalled from AAA. George Springer had the day off today and is expected to play on the weekend. Vlad was back in the field after a half day off yesterday, serving as the DH. Riley Adams was behind the plate. Joe Panik served as DH tonight. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid? Here is toniht's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Cedric Mullins led off the inning with a solo bomb to right 
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in tbe top of the 5th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. cranked a solo blast to left-center 
  • The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Austin Mays singled home Pat Valaika
  • Thomas Eshelman pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 57 pitches (39 for strikes)
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 5K 106 pitches (69 for strikes)
  • The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Freddy Galvis doubled scoring Ryan Mountcastle 
  • A batter later, Maikel Franco singled home Galvis 
  • Three batters later, Mullins hammered a 3-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Franco and Pedro Severino
  • Final score: Orioles 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

  • It was not Robbie Ray's night. The Blue Jays southpaw gave up 2 runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. Credit the Orioles for fouling pitches off and driving up Ray's pitch count early. In the 1st inning alone, Ray threw 25 pitches
  • The bullpen had another rough night, in particular, the 8th inning where the Orioles tacked on five insurance runs to put this one out of reach. Injuries have been a big factor with Jordan Romano about the only reliable reliever that's healthy. Rafael Dolis, AJ Cole, Ryan Borucki, Kirby Yates, David Phelps, Carl Edwards Jr., Julian Merryweather, Tommy Millone and Thomas Hatch are all on the injured list. Yates barely threw a pitch before he required season-ending Tommy John surgery. This leaves Charlie Montoyo trying to get enough outs to reach Romano. GM Atkins is surely going to have to try and make some kind of move for some relief help soon because at this point George Springer's return won't matter if the bullpen can't hold a lead or keep a game tied late 
  • Offensively, the Blue Jays managed 4 hits and 2 walks. At one point, nine blue Jays in a row were retired. Only Joe Panik and Cavan Biggio reached base multiple times
  • Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hurt himself striking out in the 6th and was pinch hit for in the 9th. The Blue Jays are already short of outfielders with Jonathan Davis and Teoscar Herrnandez, both tending to their wives, who both had recent births.
  • The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays look to snap the 5-game skid. Alek Manoah gets the start against Orioles righty Dean Kremer

Game #68 Trash Birds (22-46) vs Trash Birds (33-34)

 

There's not enough room in the ALE for two Trash Birds, lets win tonight and get back on track.

Lineups:



I told my wife that I saw a deer on the way to work this morning.

She said, "How do you know it was on it’s way to work?”

Game #67 NY Yankees (36-32) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-34) - game recap

 

    Reese McGuire was 3-3 with a run scored and an RBI in an 8-4 loss to the Yankees 

After being robbed of a victory by two brutal calls in the 9th (Vlad being called out diving back into 3rd base and a foul ball being called when Lourdes Gurriel Jr. clearly swung and missed) the Blue Jays were right back at it trying to salvage a game in this series. It was a bullpen day with Steven Matz on the IL after testing positive for Covid. He'll miss at least two starts as he must remain on the list at least 10 days. TJ Zeuch served as the opener tonight. Rafael Dolis, who left last night's game with no sensation in his hand, was placed on the 10-day IL with middle finger strain. Teoscar Hernandez was added to the paternity list. Outfilder Jared Hoying had his contract selected. Carl Edwards Jr. was transferred to the 60-day IL. Vlad got the half day off, serving as the DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1B. Cavan Biggio was in RF and Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner after Joe Panik's adventure last night. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays snap the three game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a fielder's choice hit by Miguel Andujar and ensuing fielding error by TJ Zeuch that scored Gio Urshela
  • Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit into a triple play in the bottom half of the inning
  • The Yankees added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Urshela hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Giancarlo Stanton
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Reese McGuire doubled scoring Santiago Espinal
  • Two batters later, McGuire scored on a ground out by Bo Bichette 
  • TJ Zeuch pitching line: 5H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 2K 65 pitches (44 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th on a ground out by Marcus Semien that scored Espinal
  • Michael King 4.1IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 1K 60 pitches (41 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Randal Grichuk singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • The Yankees added a run in the top of the 7th as Stanton hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Rougned Odor 
  • Five batters later, Chris Gittens singled home Gary Sanchez and Urshela
  • The Yankees added a run in the 9th on a sac fly by Gittens that scored Sanchez
  • Final Score: Yankees 8 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

  • TJ Zeuch had an adventurous day on the mound, throwing the ball into center field for a run. He got lucky that the Yankees didn't do more damage in the 2nd inning when Brett Gardener was thrown out at home. He gave up a mammoth 2-run bomb in the 3rd to Jays killer Gio Urshela
  • One day after the Blue Jays managed zero runs in the 1st inning on a 2nd and 3rd situation with no outs with Vlad being at fault for straying too far on a comebacker and then not getting back to 3rd base in time, the same situation arose in the 3rd inning. This time Vlad was at the plate and hit into a triple play and 2 of the outs were at 3rd base. Poor Vlad must be having nightmares 
  • Fundamentally, the Blue Jays haven't been sharp. Even though Charlie Montoyo has been sharing the DH duties, perhaps the players are getting tired or it's a learning curve thing
  • Anthony Castro imploded tonight, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits in 0.1 innings
  • Vlad extended his hitting streak to 8 games with a single in the 6th.
  • The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position. 
  • Up next, the Blue Jays take on the Oroles. Last season, the Blue Jays were 8-2 vs. the Orioles, outscoring them 58-50. Friday will be a battle of the lefties with Robbie Ray pitching against Orioles lefty Bruce Zimmerman

Thursday, June 17, 2021

Game #67 MLB's Cash Cow aka Donkeys aka Shitheads (35-32) vs Blue Jays (33-33)



We know Gibby, we know.


Teo on paternity list.

Bad news. My favorite old coat is falling apart and now I'm going to have to throw it out Or sew it's seams....

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Game #66 NY Yankees (35-32) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-33) - game recap

 

Ross Stripling threw 6.2 strong innings in a 3-2 loss to the Yankees

After the bullpen blew another lead, the Blue Jays were back at it and trying to snap a two-game skid. With a win, the Blue Jays would take over 3rd place in the AL East. It was going to be an interesting day for Blue Jays batters, who faced Gerritt Cole, a pitcher expected to be especially affected by the crackdown on the use of foreign substances on baseballs. Next week, pitchers caught using foreign substances could face 10 game suspensions. Carl Edward Jr. was placed on the 10-day IL with an oblique strain. Travis Bergen and Patrick Murphy were both reinstated from the 60-day IL. Ross Stripling started for the Blue Jays. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the half day off as DH with Teoscar Hernandez in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Cavan Biggio in RF. Joe Panik was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the two-game losing streak? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a sac fly by Giancarlo Stanton that scored DJ LeMahieu
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Marcus Semien led off the inning with a solo blast to left
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Cavan Biggio smacked a solo blast to left-center
  • The Yankees took the lead in the top of the 7th as Gary Sanchez annihiliated a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Miguel Andujar
  • Ross Stripling pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 9K 101 pitches (69 for strikes)
  • Gerritt Cole pitching line: 8IP 4H 2R (both earned)  1BB 4K 104 pitches (70 for strikes)
  • Aroldis Chapman threw a scoreless 9th for his 14th save of the season
  • Final score: Yankees 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

  • Ross Stripling had another strong start, giving up three runs on three hits while walking 2 and striking out nine. It's unfotunate that he made one bad pitch that cost him the win
  • The bullpen was solid, allowing just the walk given up by Rafael Dolis, who left the game immediately afterward complaining of no feeling in his pitching arm/hand, and a one out single to Stanton by Trent Thornton that was stranded at 1st base 
  • Joe Panik was an adventure in the field tonight, with two throwing errors from the hot corner 
  • Let's be real, the umpires cost the Blue Jays a win. First, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was called out at 3rd base when replays appeared to show he got back safely. The next batter, it looked like Gary Sanchez was going to be charged with a passed ball to put runners back on 2nd and 3rd with 2 outs, instead CB Buckner said Lourdes Gurriel Jr. fouled the ball off. Again, replay suggested otherwise. 
  • The good thing about baseball is you play tomorrow
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to salvage a game in this series. It'll likely be a bullpen day tomorrow with Steven Matz on the COVID IL. The Yankees will counter with righty Michael King

Game #66 Skankees (34-32) vs Blue Jays (33-32)

 
PSA: Blue Jay Relievers, gas cans are to be left in the bullpen, do not bring to the mound. Thank you.



Therapist: What brings you in today? Me: I have a terrible fear of tsunamis. Therapist: How bad is it? Me: It comes in waves.

Game #65 NY Yankees (34-32) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-32) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in 3 runs, including a solo HR in a 6-5 loss to the Yankees

After splitting the four game series vs. the Red Sox, the Blue Jays returned home to take on the Yankees. The Blue Jays have won 6 of 9 games of the season series so far, outscoring the Bronx Bombers 33-25. The big story of the day is George Springer is set to begin a rehab assignment in Trenton as he finally nears a return to the Blue Jays lineup after missing all of 4 games with a quad injury that occured as he neared a return from an oblique injury suffered in spring training. Springer is expected to play 5 innings tonight in CF. The Blue Jays invested $150 million over 6 season for the former Astros CF. There was much controversy over his signing since he was involved in the cheating scandal that many say should have cost the Astros the World Series in 2017. The cheating scandal cost several perssonel, including manager Alex Cora and losing draft picks in ensuing drafts. Tonight, ace Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start. Jonathan Davis has been placed on the paternity list. Santiago Espinal was recalled from AAA and started at the hot corner. Bo Bichette got the half day off, serving as the DH with Joe Panik at 2B. Riley Adams was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays start the home stand with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a sac fly by Teoscar Hernandez that scored Marcus Semien
  • The Yankees tied the game in the top of the 2nd as Gary Sanchez hammered a solo bomb to left
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Bo Bichette annihilated a solo shot to dead center 
  • The Yankees tied the game in the top of the 4th as Chris Gittens crushed a solo bomb to left-center 
  • The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a passed ball by Gary Sanchez that scored Joe Panik
  • Same batter, Bichette singled scoring Semien and Santiago Espinal
  • The Yankees got one back in the top of the 6th on a groundout by Miguel Andujar that scored Gio Urshela
  • Jordan Montgomery pitching line: 5.1IP5H 5R (4 earned) 4BB 4K 97 pitches (55 for strikes)
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (all earned) 4BB 3K 92 pitches (58 for strikes)
  • The Yankees tied the game in the top of the 7th as Brett Gardner smashed a solo blast to left
  • Three batters later, DJ LeMahieu scored on a  wild pitch by Anthony Castro
  • The Yankees added a run in the top of the 8th as Clint Frazier doubled home Tyler Wade
  • Aroldis Chapman pitched a perfect 9th for his 13th save of the season
  • Final score: Yankees 5=6 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu continues to work through a rough patch. It can't be helping having his personal catcher Danny Jansen out with a hamstring strain (although Jansen caught 20 pitches in BP today so could be getting close to a return. Today he gave up 3 runs (all earned on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over 6 innings. The Yankees took him deep twice and manufactured a run on a ground out. Hopefully Ryu and Pete Walker can figure something out during his side session.
  • It was another rough one for the bullpen. Carl Edwards Jr. had to leave the game with discomfort in his left side. Anthony Castro gave up a game-tying HR in the 7th and Jordan Romano allowed a go-ahead double in the 8th with the run charged to Tim Mayza. Encouragingly Tyler Chatwood should have had a clean inning if he didn't flub the ball hit softly to him
  • Bo Bichette drove the offence with a solo HR and a 2-run single
  • Vlad extended his hitting streak to 6 games with a single in the 7th
  • Santiago Espinal also had a solid day going 3-4 with a run scored
  • The Blue Jays were 2-8 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays look to snap the 2-game skid. Ross Stripling gets the start. The Yankees will counter with ace Gerritt Cole

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

Game #65 Skankees (33-32) vs Blue Jays (33-31)




My dad told me his password is: MickeyMinnieGoofyDonaldPlutoHueyLouieDeweyDublin. When I asked why, I shouldn't have, he said because he was told his password had to contain 8 characters and at least one Capital.

Go Jays, you Assholes!

Monday, June 14, 2021

Game #64 Toronto Blue Jays (33-31) @ Boston Red Sox (40-27) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 22nd HR of the season in a 2-1 loss to the Red Sox

No doubt Blue Jays hitters will be sad to depart Boston after absolutely obliterating Red Sox pitching with thirteen HR the last 2 days, including a Fenway Park record 8 HR yesterday. Vlad added to his league-leading total with his 21st yesterday. Teoscar Hernandez had two 3-run shots yesterday as well. Tonight, they faced Red Sox ace Nathan Eovaldi. Alek Manoah started his 4th career game. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as the DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1B. Randal Grichuk was back in the field (CF) after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it three in a row vs. the Red Sox? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Alex Verdugo doubled scoring Enrique Hernandez
  • Nathan Eovaldi pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 0R 1BB 4K 81 pitches (55 for strikes)
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 93 pitches (59 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 9th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smashed a solo bomb to left-center 
  • The Red Sox walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Rafael Devers singled home Verdugo

My Take:

  • It was a pitcher's duel today. Alek Manoah threw 6 strong innings, giving up 1 run (earned) on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Manoah retired the 1st 4 batters he faced and struck out the side in his final inning, He looks like he'll be a solid starter for years to come
  • A day after breaking Fenway Park's road team record with 8 HR, the Blue Jay bats were silenced by Red Sox ace Nathan Eovaldi, who threw 6.2 shutout innings, allowing just three hits while walking one and striking out 4. Vlad broke the shutout bid in the 9th with a solo shot, but the Blue Jays were unable to do anything else on this day.
  • Marcus Semien saw his road hitting streak snapped at 25 games
  • The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runner's in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays head back home to face the Yankees for 3 games. Meanwhile, George Springer begins a rehab assignment as he nears a return to the lineup after missing all but 3 games with a strained quad and oblique injury suffered in spring training. The Blue Jays have won 6 of 9 meetings vs. the Yankees so far and have outscored the Bronx bombers 33-25. Tuesday's pitching matchup sees ace Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching against Yankees lefty Jordan Montgomery 

Sunday, June 13, 2021

Game #63 Toronto Blue Jays (33-30) @ Boston Red Sox (39-27) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez hit 2 3-run HR in a 16-4 rout over the Red Sox

After beatingthe Red Sox with the long ball yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two wins in a row vs. their AL East rivals. Robbie Ray got the start. Riley Adams was behind the plate. Randal Grichuk got the half day off as DH with Jonathan Davis in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the lineup after the full day off yesterday. Steven Matz landed on the COVID-related IL. Jeremy Beasley was recall from AAA Trenton. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row vs. the Red Sox? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Teoscar Hernandez hammered a 3-run bomb to left and over the green monster; also scoring Bo Bichette and Marcus Semien
  • A batter later, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. obliterated a solo bomb to left and over the green monster 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Semien whacked a solo bomb to straightaway cetnter 
  • Martin Perez pitching line: 1.1IP 6H 5R (all earned) 1BB 0K 38 pitches (22 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Xander Bogaerts smacked a solo blast to left and over the green monster 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled home Jonathan Davis 
  • A batter later, Hernandez hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Bichette and Guerrero Jr.
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Semien that scored Gurriel Jr.
  • A batter later, Bichette crushed a 3-run bomb to left and over the green monster; also scoring Cavan Biggio and Davis
  • The Red Sox got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Enrique Hernandez doubled scoring Christian Arroyo and Devon Plawecki
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Biggio crushed a solo bomb to left-center
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. smashed a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Bichette 
  • Robbie Ray pitching line 6IP 4H 3R (all earned) 3BB 10K 88 pitches (58 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bobby Dalbec hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
  • The Blue Jays added 2 more runs in the top of the 9th as Rowdy Tellez whacked a 2-run blast to right-center and into the Red Sox bullpen; also scoring Bichette 
  • Final score: Blue Jays 18 Red Sox 4

My Take:

  • Robbie Ray had a strong start, giving up three runs on four hits while walking three and striking out ten over six innings. Ray retired 8 in a row
  • The bullpen held the Red Sox to 2 hits 1 run and a walk with 2 strikeouts over the final 3 innings. Only critique I have is not using the struggling Tyler Chatwood in a low leverage situation. A demotion might be in order if he can't turn things around
  • The big story was the offense:
    • 8 HR (2nd most in franchise history and the most by a road team in the history of Fenway Park)
    • back to back 5HR games for 2nd time in franchise history and 1st time in same series)
    • Seven different Blue Jays had at least 1 HR today (Teoscar Hernandez, Rowdy Tellez, Vlad, Cavan Biggio, Bo Bichete, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Marcus Semien)
    • second day in a row Vlad, Bo, and Cavan all homered on same day
  • Every Blue Jays starter except Riley Adams had at least one hit 
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try for three straight wins over the Red Sox. Alek Manoah pitches against Red Sox righty Nick Eovaldi 

Saturday, June 12, 2021

Game #62 Toronto Blue Jays (32-30) @ Boston Red Sox (39-26) - game recap

 

Steven Matz threw 5.2 strong innings in a 7-2 win over the Red Sox

After blowing a 4 run lead late and seeing the Red Sox walk them off last night, the Blue Jays were right back at it. Jordan Romano was feeling better and available to pitch after being unavailable yesterday due to a forearm strain. George Springer continues to run the bases and take batting practice with no word on the rehab assignment. Jeremy Beasley was optioned to AAA Trenton. AJ Cole was transferred to the 60 day IL. Lefty Taylor Saucedo was added to the roster. Steven Matz got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Rowdy Tellez was DH today). Joe Panik was at the hot corner today. Cavan Biggio got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Bo Bichette
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Cavan Biggio smacked a solo blast to left-center
  • Two batters later, Marcus Semien cranked a 2-run blast to left-center also scoring Reese McGuire 
  • A batter later, Bo Bichette hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
  • Nick Pivetta pitching line: 5IP 6H 6R (all earned) 2BB 6K 96 pitches (60 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Christian Vazquez singled scoring Rafael Devers
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 8K 111 pitches (74 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Devers triples home JD Martinez
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Reese McGuire whacked a solo blast to right
  • Final score: Blue Jays 7 Red Sox 2

My Take:

  • Steven Matz had a strong start, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8. He got a pick off of Rafael Devers in the 2nd inning. He retired seven in a row at one point. Manager Charlie Montoyo gave him every opportunity to work out of a jam in the 6th, but he could not get the 3rd out
  • Bullpen was solid after blowing the game last night, though Rafael Dolis did give up a run on a walk and triple. Jordan Romano shook off a hard comebacker that caught him in the worst possible spot to get the final out 
  • Vlad continued his MVP-caliber season, cracking his 20th HR and drawing a pair of walks, including his 40th of the season.
  • Marcus Semien also kept his road hitting streak alive with a 2-run bomb in the 5th
  • Every Blue Jays starter except Randal Grichuk and Teoscar Hernandez had at least one hit
  • Up next, thbe Blue Jays continue a 4-game set with the Red Sox with a Suday matinee. They'll be looking for their second straight win over their AL East division rivals. Sunday will be a battle of the leftiies with Robbie Ray up against Red Sox southpaw Martin Perez

Friday, June 11, 2021

Game #61 Toronto Blue Jays (31-30) @ Boston Red Sox (39-25) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero  Jr. bashed a 2-run hr in a losing effort as the Red Sox came from behind to walk off the Blue Jays 6-5

After dropping 2/3 to the White Sox, the Blue Jaus were looking for better luck against the Red Sox, who have won 3 of 5 meetings in the season series so far. Tonight, Ross Stripling got the start. After some early struggles, his last two starts have been better after an adjustment to his delivery. Cavan Biggio was activated after completing a rehab assignment and was at the hot corner and Santiago Espinal was optioned. Vlad got the half day off, serving as the DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1st base. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after the half day off as DH yeterday. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Bo Bichette 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Bichette singled home Reese McGuire 
  • Two batters later, Hernandez singled scoring Bichette 
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 3rd as Bobby Dalbec hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center also scoring Marcus Semien
  • Garrett Richards pitching line: 5.1IP 11H 4R (all earned) 2BB 3K 101 pitches (66 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Hunter Renfroe singled scoring Alex Verdugo
  • Two batters later, a bases loaded walk to Marwin Gonzalez forced in Hunter Renfroe
  • A batter later, a wild pitch by Tyler Chatwood scored Christian Vazquez
  • Ross Stripling pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 6K 83 pitches (56 for strikes)
  • The Red Sox tied the game in the bottom of the 8th as Christian Arroyo belted a solo bomb over the green monster in left
  • The Red Sox walked it off in the bottom of the 8th as Verdugo singled home Danny Santana
  • Final score: Red Sox 6 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

  • Ross Stripling must be frustrated. He held the Red Sox to a solo home run, a pair of walks and a single through 5 innings. He left the game in the 6th having allowed one more run and runners on the corners with 2 out. Tyler Chatwood proceeded to hit the first batter he faced, walk the next batter to force in a run then throw a wild pitch to shrink what was a four run lead to 1 run. 
  • Other than Tim Mayza, the bullpen had a rough game. Carl Edwards Jr. gave up the game tying HR in the 8th and Rafael Dolis gave up a game winning single in the 9th
  • Marcus Semien broke a Blue Jays record, hitting in his 23rd consecutive road game 
  • Every Blue Jays starter had at least 1 hit tonight
  • The Blue Jays were 4-15 with runners in scoring position. Drive a few more of those chances in and there might have been a different outcome tonight
  • Up next, the Blue Jays look to snap the 2-game skid and even the weekend series. Steven Matz goes up against Red Sox righty Nick Pivetta

Thursday, June 10, 2021

Game #60 Toronto Blue Jays (31-29) @ Chicago White Sox (38-24) - game recap

 

Joe Panik had a pair of hits and scored a run in a 5-2 loss to the White Sox

After splitting the first two games on late inning rallies, the White Sox and Blue Jays wrapped up their three game set. Hyun-Jin Ryu face his first start without personal catcher Danny Jansen, who is on the 10-day IL with a hamstring strain. Riley Adams got the start behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off, serving as the DH with Joe Panik at 2B and Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The White Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jose Abreu doubled scoring Yermin Mercedes
  • A batter later, Yasmani Grandal smack a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Abreu
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Marcus Semien singled scoring Joe Panik
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • Dallas Keuchel pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 8K 104 pitches (65 for strikes)
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 3K 95 pitches (57 for strikes)
  • The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Adam Eaton hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
  • The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Abreu doubled home Tim Anderson
  • Liam Hendricks pitched a scoreless 9th for his 16th save of the season
  • Final score: White Sox 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitched 6 effective innings, giving up three runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. With his personal catcher Danny Jansen on the IL with a hamstring strain and unavailable, it fell to rookie Riley Adams to catch the veteran ace. Ryu endured a rough 1st inning, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits, capped off by a 2-run HR that barely cleared the wall in right. Ryu settled down after the HR, retiring the next seven batters, before giving up a leadoff walk in the 4th. He also retired the final seven batters he faced.
  • Much like the first 2 games of the series, late runs were a factor. The Blue Jays needed the bullpen to hold the White Sox at three runs. Instead, Anthony Castro was taken yard by Adam Eaton in the 7th and Joel Payamps gave up an RBI double in the 8th
  • On the offensive side of the ball, Dallas Keuchel cruised through the 1st 4 innings, before the Blue Jays were able to rally courtesy of a couple of infield singles and a base knock up the middle by Marcus Semien. The Blue Jays also manufactured a run in the 6th. Unfortunately, the White Sox bullpen held the Blue Jays to 2 hits over the final three innings and struck out 3
  • Joe Panik and Santiago Espinal both had multi-hit days 
  • The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays head to Boston for a 4-game series. Boston has won 3 of the first 5 meetings this season with the Blue Jays outscoring the Red Sox 26-22. Ross Stripling gets the start against Red Sox righty Garrett Richards

Game #59 Toronto Blue Jays (31-28) @ Chicago White Sox (37-24) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette had 3 hits and scored a run as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the White Sox 6-2

After a late-inning loss to the White Sox last night, the Blue Jays were looking to get back on track and snap the two-game skid. Alek Manoah made his third career start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate after the day off yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Riwdy Tellez served as DH tonight. Teoscar Hernandez was in RF and Randal Grichuk was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game losing streak? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The White Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Yoan Moncada singled scoring Jake Lamb
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 2nd on a solo bomb by Randal Grichuk to left
  • The White Sox took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Nick Madrigal doubled homeLeury Garcia
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 5IP 4H 2R (1 earned) 2BB 4K 90 pitches (54 for strikes)
  • Lance Lynn pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 9K 95 pitches (64 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that forced in Riley Adams
  • A batter later, a fielder's choice/throwing error by Tim Anderson on a ball hit by Teoscar Hernandez scored Marcus Semien and Bo Bichette 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Rowdy Tellez singled home Santiago Espinal
  • Two batters later, Tellez scored on a botched double play attempt by the White Sox on a grounder hit by Semien
  • Final score: Blue Jays 6 White Sox 2

My Take:

  • Alek Manoah threw five decent innings in his 3rd career start, giving up 2 runs (1 earned) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. He made a bad throw to Vlad the 2nd batter into the game. He got a huge defensive play from Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who gunned down Yasmani Grandal at the plate to end the 4th inning
  • After struggling so mightily in recent outings, Tyler Chatwood finally pitched a clean inning and was credited with the win. The bullpen held the White Sox to just 2 walks over the final 4 innings and struck out 3
  • It was a busy night for White Sox trainer Herm Schneider, who had to tend to Jose Abreu (inadvently hit by a bat that home plate umpire Erich Bacchus tried to move out of the way of a hard charging Jake lamb. Abreu stayed in the game), Nick Marigal (left after the 7th after pulling his hamstring trying to beat out an infield single) and Matt Foster (fell throwing a pitch. stayed in the game)
  • The White Sox defense essentially threw this one away, literally and figuratively. Three errors in the last 2 innings led directly to 4 runs. Tim Anderson threw the ball into the Blue Jays dugout for two runs, Adam Eaton threw the ball way wide of catcher Grandal trying to gun down Espinal at the plate and Abreu missed a catch on a DP ball that would have ended the 9th
  • A day after getting his first MLB hit, Riley Adams scored his first career run
  • Up next, the rubber match of this series. It will be a battle of the left-handed aces with Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching against White Sox lefty Dallas Keuchel

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Game #58 Toronto Blue Jays (30-28) @ Chicago White Sox (37-23) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray struck out 12 batters in a kosing effort as the White Sox rallied late to defeat the Blue Jays 6-1

After their first home stand in their new temporary home in Buffalo where they swept the Marlins and dropped two of three to the Astros, the Bue Jays opened a stretch of 13 straight and 12 of 15 on the road. Tonight, they began a three game set vs. the White Sox. In 2019, the White Sox took 4 of 7 in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 27-25. A big concern for the Blue Jays at the start of this road trip and stretch of games has to be the health of starting catcher Danny Jansen, who was removed from the game Sunday after injuring his hamstring sliding into 3rd base after an ill-advised attempt to advance to 3rd base on a grounder. He was thrown out easily and cost the Blue Jays a likely run. While it was a blatant baserunning error, the bigger concern is Alejandro Kirk is still rehabbing a hip flexor injury and the only catcher would be 25-year-old Riley Adams who would be making his MLB debut before the Blue Jays would ideally like. Robbie Ray got the start tonight. Jansen was placed on the 10-day IL and Adams made his MLB debut behind the plate tonight. Lourdes Gurriel Jr got the half day off, serving as DH with Teoscar Hernandez in LF, Jonathan Davis in CF and Randal Grichuk in RF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner tonight. Could the Blue Jays start the road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd on a sac fly by Jonathan Davis that scored Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
  • Riley Adams got his first career hit in the 5th, doubling off the wall in CF. He was stranded at 3B
  • Carlos Rodon pitching line: 5IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 8K 106 pitches (65 for pitches)
  • The White Sox tied the game in the bottom of the 7th as Andrew Vaughn bashed a solo blast to right-center 
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 6.1IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 13K 102 pitches (72 for strikes)
  • The White Sox retook the lead in the bottom of the 8th on a sac fly by Vaughn that scored Jose Abreu
  • A batter later, Adam Eaton singled scoring Yermin Mercedes
  • A batter after that, Leurya Garcia tripled home Eaton and Yasmani Grandal
  • A batter later, Garcia scored on a sac fly by Tim Anderson 

My Take:

  • It was a strong by Robbie Ray, who gave up a solo HR and scattered 4 other hits while walking none and striking out 13 over 6.1 innings.I really liked how Riley Adams handled Ray with pitch selection. It's just unfortunate the bullpen couldn't keep the score even long enough for the Blue Jays to score.
  • Speaking of the bullpen, it was a shaky night indeed. The bullpen (Trent Thornton and Carl Edwards Jr.) coughed up 5 runs on 5 hits and a walk in the 8th inning. Rafael Dolis loaded the bases on 2 walks and a single in the 7th, but escaped the jam by striking out Yoan Moncada. The bullpe appears overworked and overmatched. They better dig deep because they won't see an off-day for 2 weeks
  • Riley Adams made a good first impression, collecting his fitst big league hit in the 5th and working well with Robbie Ross
  • Vlad (1 hit and 2 walks)  and Bo (2 hits and a walk) both hand strong nights at the plate. Bichette also made a fine play in the field leaping up to snare a line drive by Jose Abreu
  • The Blue Jays were a dismal 1-12 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, Alek Manoah makes his third career start. He was knocked around a bit last start, but that's part of the learning process. The White Sox will counter with righty Lance Lynn

Sunday, June 6, 2021

Game #57 Houston Astros (33-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (30-27) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez scored a run and drove in a run in a 6-3 loss to the Astros

The Blue Jays wrapped up the home stand, as well as tthe season series against Houston. After both teams claimed decisive victories the first two games of this weekend series,today's matinee was a rubber match. A win by the Blue Jays would mean a season series split. Steven Matz, who has overall been a pleasant surprise got the start. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after a day off yesterday. Vlad got the half day off, serving as DH with Rowdy Telez at 1B. Randal Grichuk was back in CF after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row vs. the 'stros? Here isa today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jose Altuve led off the game with a solo blast to left
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 2nd as Chas McCormick belted a solo bomb to left
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. that scored Teoscar Hernandez
  • The Astros added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Kyle Tucker singled scoring Alex Bregman and Yordan Alvarez
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 4R (all earned) 4BB 3K 77 pitches (49 for strikes)
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 7th on a fielding error by Rowdy Tellez on a ball hit by Martin Maldanado that scored Yuli Gurriel
  • Luis Garcia pitching line: 6IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 8K 79 pitches (53 for strikes)
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 8th as Gurriel singled scoring Bregman
  • The Blue Jays got one back on a fielder's choice hit by Hernandez that scored Marcus Semien
  • A batter later, Randal Grichuk singled scoring Bo Bichette
  • Ryan Preesly pitched a scoreless 9th for his 9th save of the season
  • Final score: Astros 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

  • Steven Matz pitched his way in and out of trouble all game, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3. Right off the bat, Jose Altuve took him yard. Not his best day, he was pitching in and out of ttrouble every inning. To be fair, the ump's strike zone was pretty tight today.
  • The Blue Jays are in a pickle at catcher with Danny Jansen injuring his quad. Alejandro Kirk is already on the shelf for another month with a hip flexor strain. After an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays play through June 20 with no off-days. They will need a catcher to catch a handful of those games
  • Every Blue Jays except Rowdy Tellez got on base at least once
  • The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays travel to Chicago to face the White Sox. In 2019, the White Sox won the season series 4-3, outscoring the Blue Jays 27-25. Tueday will be a battle of the lefties - Robbie Ray against White Sox southpaw Carlos Rodon

Saturday, June 5, 2021

Game #56 Houston Astros (32-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (30-26) - game recap

 

Joe Panik smashed a 3-run HR in a 6-2 win over the Astros

The good thing about baseball is playing every day. After a 13-1 shellacking at the hands of Zack Greinke and the Astros, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. There may be a George Springer sighting sometime this month. The prize free agent signing had his best day of rehab, running the bases at full speed, taking fly balls in the outfield and batting practice. He's almost certain to go on a rehab assignment when ready, perhaps sometime next week. Ross Springer got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Randal Grichuk got the half day off, serving as the DH with Teoscar Hernandez in RF and Jonathan Davis in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the two-game losing streak? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 4th on a bases loaded walk to Myles Straw that forced in Yuli Gurriel
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • A batter later, Joe Panik smashed a 3-run bomb to the opposite field in right; also scoring Gurriel Jr. and Teoscar Hernandez
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Bo Bichette 
  • Jose Urquidy pitching line: 4.2IP 9H 6R (all earned) 0BB 5K 74 pitches (50 for strikes)
  • Ross Stripling pitching line: 5IP 7H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 74 pitches (42 for strikes)
  • The Astros got one back in the top of the 9th on a ground out by Straw that scored Gurriel
  • Final score: Blue Jays 6 Astros 2

My Take:

  • It was another solid outing for Ross Stripling, who allowed a run on 7 hits while walking one and striking out 4. His only tough inning was in the 4th when he loaded the bases and allowed his only run on his only walk of the day.. He got help from 2 great defensive plays with Vlad firing one across the infield to nail Jose Altuve at 3rd base in the 1st inning and Lourdes Guriell Jr. throwing out Myles Straw at home in the 4th inning. That's three solid outings in a row for Stripling
  • The bullpen was pretty solid. Tim Mayza retired all three batters he faced and struck out three. Trent Thornton threw two innings and gave up a hit and struck out 3. Rafael Dolis was the shakiest, putting runners on 2nd and 3rd with no outs on a single, walk and balk. Dolis rebounded though, conceding just the one run on a ground out.
  • Offensively, the Blue Jays tallied for 6 runs in the 4th and 5th combined, highlighted by a 3-run shot by Joe Panik and Vlad going yard for 2 more runs
  • Vlad had a great day, going 3-4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI, and a great defensive play in the 1st, nailing Jose Altuve with an alert play.
  • Every Blue Jay had at least one hit, except Randal Grichuk and Jonathan Davis
  • The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring positiion
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for a series win to wrap up the home stand. Steven Matz gets the start against Astros righty Luis Garcia

Friday, June 4, 2021

Game #55 Houston Astros (32-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-26) - game recap

 

Randal Grichuk hit a solo home run to break the shutout bid in a 13-1 loss to the Astros

After a well-earned off-day after a huge come-from-behind win over the Marlins, the Blue Jays welcomed the Astros into town. George Springer will not get to face his former team as he is still working his way back from a nagging quad injury and will need a rehab assignment first. The Astros took 2/3 when the Blue Jays were in Houston a month ago. Ty Tice was traded to Atlanta for cash considerations. It was a battle of the aces today with Zack Greinke up against Hyun-Jin Ryu. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday (Rowdy Tellez was DH today). Danny Jansen was behind the plate. Joe Panik was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Yordan Alvarez doubled scoring Aledmys Diaz
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Jose Altuve that scored Myles Straw
  • A batter later, Carlos Correa whacked a solo blast to left
  • The Astros added 4 runs in the top of the 6th as Martin Maldanado hammered a grand slam to left; also scoring Yuli Gurriel, Alvarez and Chaz McCormick
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 5.IP 7H 7R (6 earned) 3BB 1K 91 pitches (58 for strikes)
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 7th as Diaz smashed a solo blast to left
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Randal Grichuk launched a solo shot to dead center
  • The Astros added a run in the top of the 8th as Maldanado singled home McCormick
  • A batter later Altuve singled scoring Straw
  • A batter after that, Correa anihilated a 3-run bomb to left also scoring Maldanado and Altuve
  • Zack Greinke pitching line: 9IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 102 pitches (75 for strikes)
  • Final score: Astros 13 Blue Jays 1
My Take:

  • It was a rough one for Hyun-Jin Ryu, who was lit up for 7 runs (6 earned) on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 1 over 5.2 innings. The first time through the order went well enough, with Ryu 8 of the first 9 batters he faced. The Astros picked something up and proceeded to score 7 runs, capped off by a grand slam over innings 4-6. Ryu obviously did not have his best stuff today
  • After walking a buch of batters, Tyler Chatwood was also lit up in the 8th to the tune of 5 runs on 6 hits, capped off by 3-run BOMB by Correa. Perhaps Chatwood needs a little personal time with Pete Walker 
  • Offesnsively, Randal Grichuk broke the shutout bid in the 8th. Teoscar Hernandez was the only Blue Jay to get on base multiple times, with 2 hits and a walk.
  • The Blue Jays were 0-1 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the weekend series. Ross Stripling gets ths start against Astros righty Jose Urquidy.