Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Game #131 Baltimore Orioles (41-90) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-62) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a solo HR in his return from the IL in a 4-2 loss to the Orioles

After a huge come from behind win thanks to another stellar performance from Robbie Ray, a couple of blasts off the bat of Vlad and clutch hits from Toe and Bo. The win was huge because every team the Blue Jays are chasing in the WC race either lost or were idle (A's were off). The Blue Jays still need help from other teams and do not control their own destiny. Brad Hand was DFA'd. Danny Jansen returned from the IL. Trent Thornton was optioned to AAA. Ace Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was DH again with Randal Grichuk in CF, Lourdes in LF and Teo in RF. Kevin Smith continued his run at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins and end August with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Danny Jansen drilled a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center
  • The Orioles tied the game in the top of the 6th as Austin Hays singled scoring Ryan Mountcastle
  • Two batters later, Ramon Urias doubled scoring Hays and Anthony Santander
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 3R (all earned) 3BB 6K 95 pitches (61 for strikes)
  • Keegan Akin pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 85 pitches (53 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. cranked an opposite-field solo blast to right-center
  • The Orioles added a run in the top of the 7th as Jahmal Jones singled scoring Jorge Mateo
  • Cole Sulser pitched a perfect 9th for his 6th save of the season
  • Final score: Orioles 4 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu had a rocky start to the game, walking 2 batters in the 1st inning. He had a rocky 6th inning, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits and a walk. In between, he was rock solid, retiring 15 in a row. He just seems to have more comfort pitching to Danny Jansen. Hopefully he gets on a roll now that the veteran catcher is healed from his hamstring strain. It will be interesting to see how the three catchers (Jansen, Alejandro Kirk and Reese McGuire) are utilized down the stretch.
  • One injured player back (DanJan) another back on the shelf (who else but George Springer). Springer injured either his knee or hamstring slamming on the brakes going aroun 2nd base. At this point, the best thing to do might just to be to call it a season and let Springer heal for 2022 (whenever it starts with an expected labour dispute). At least Jansen looked good with a 1-1 effort at the plate and drawing a walk. The Orioles stole a base off him though).
  • Adam Cimber allowed an unearned run after a throwing error by him trying to pick off Jorge Mateo. Jahmal Jones singled him home. Trevor Richards pitched a clean 2 innings, striking out a batter
  • The offense still can't drive in a base runner if its life depended on it. Vlad and Dan Jan both hit solo shots. The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position and left 8 men on base overall
  • In term of the wild card race, The A's won, the Red Sox lost and the Yankees/Angels and Astros/Mariners were both scoreless. Go Astros and Angels.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to start September with a win. Steven Matz gets the start against Orioles righty Matt Harvey

Game #131 Baltimore Orioles (40-90) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-61)

 

Monday, August 30, 2021

Game #130 Baltimore Orioles (40-90) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-61) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a pair of HR and had 4 RBI in a 7-3 victory 

After a sorely needed series win over the Tigers, the Blue Jays returned home to take on the struggling Orioles, who have won just 3 of their last 25 games. The Blue Jays have won 6 of the 9 games against the Orioles this season and outscored the Orioles 64-39.  Carl Jr. Edwards cleared waivers and is now a free agent. George Springer returned to the lineup as DH with Josh Palacios being optioned to AAA. Robbie Ray got the start with Alejandro Kirk DH'ing. Jarrod Dyson got his first start as a lue Jay in CF. Corey Dickerson was in LF and Teo was in RF. Kevin Smith was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Ryan Mountcastle whacked a solo blast to left-center 
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
  • Chris Ellis pitching line: 4.2IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 2K 69 pitches (41 for strikes)
  • The Orioles took the lead in the top of the 6th as Mountcastle singled scoring Kelvin Gutierrez
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette singled home George Springer
  • A batter later, Teoscar Hernandez doubled scoring Marcus Semien and Bichette 
  • The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drilled a three-run bomb to left; also scoring Kevin Smith and Springer
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 7IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 10K 97 pitches (62 for strikes)
  • The Orioles got a run back in top of the 9th Pedro Severino singled home Mountcastle
  • Jordan Romano got the final 2 outs for his 14th save of the season.
  • Final score: Blue Jays 7 Orioles 3

My Take:

  • Robbie Ray had another excellent performance and his 3rd straight start with 10+ strikeouts. There's no question at this point that Ray will have a significantly higher salary next year and the Blue Jays will almost certainly have to break open the piggy bank to re-sign him as he'll be highly coveted this off-season. Ryan Mountcastle was about the only Oriole to touch Ray tonight, launching a solo shot and later driving in a run with a single
  • The bullpen was decent tonight, but Trent Thornton allowed a run on 2 hits and a walk and retired just one batter,
  • The Blue Jays offence came through in a big way. Vlad, who'd been slumping all month, bashed 2 big bombs for 4 runs. Teo doubled home a pair and speedster Jarrod Dyson stole a pair of bases and drew the walk that jumpstarted the offense.
  • Everyone but Marcus Semien (he drew a walk), Alejandro Kirk, Corey Dickenson, and Kevin Smith (drew a walk) had at least one hit 
  • The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position
  • The Blue Jays might catch a break tonight in the WC race. The Red Sox lost and the Yankees and Mariners were both losing at the time of this positng  The A's were off so the Blue Jays gained a half game on them.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for 4 straight wins. It will be a battle of the lefties with ace Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching against Orioles southpaw Keegan Akin

Game #130 Baltimore Orioles (40-89) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-61)

 

Sunday, August 29, 2021

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (68-61) @ Detroit Tigers (62-69) - game recap

 

Jose Berros threw seven strong innings in a 2-1 win over the Tigers

After ekeing out a win yesterday with a clutch extra innings hit by Corey Dickerson, and efficient pitching performances from starter Alek Manoah and closer Jordan Romano, the Blue Jays were looking tomake it two wins in a row. Jarrod Dyson joined the team, but was not in the starting lineup. Jose Berros got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate and Alejandro Kirk DH'd. Kevin Smith was at the hot corner after Santiago Espinal injured his hip flexor last night (he was placed on the 10-day IL). Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF with a lefty on the mound. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Bo Bichette whacked an opposite-field solo blast to right-center 
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Kevin Smith smashed his 1st career HR to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
  • Matthew Boyd pitching line: 4IP 4H 2R (both earned) 2BB 5K 71 pitches (44 for strikes)
  • The Tigers got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Harold Castro singled scoring Jonathan Schoop
  • Jose Berros pitching line: 7IP 6H 1R (unearned) 0BB 11K 97 pitches (74 for strikes)
  • Tim Mayza got the finmal 4 outs for his 1st save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 2 Tigers 1

My Take:

  • Jose Berros was excellent, allowing one run (unearned) on six hits while walking none and striking out eleven. At one point he retired 7 in a row. The Blue Jays need their starters to pitch like Cy Young every night.
  • The bullpen did what it had to, allowing a pair of hits and striking out a batter in the final 2 innings
  • The offense continues to sputter and got two solo shots, which was enough to win today. The Blue Jays were 0-10 with runners in scoring position.
  • Jarrod Dyson struck out in his first AB as a Blue Jay.
  • In terms of the WC race, the Mariners and Red Sox were both leading their games at the time of the release of the recap. The Yankees and A's were set to play later in the day. For now, the Blue Jays gained a half game with the win, but were likely to drop a half games to at least one team depending on the outcomes of the games.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays return home to begin a series with the Orioles, who recently lost 19 in a row. The Blue Jays have won 6 of 9 games against the Orioles in the season series so far and have outscored the O's 64-39. Robbie Ray starts against Orioles righty Chris Ellis.

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (67-61) @ Detroit Tigers (62-68)

 

Saturday, August 28, 2021

Game #128 Toronto Blue Jays (67-61) @ Detroit Tigers (62-68) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw 6.1 stellar innings in a 3-2 win over the Tigers in 10 innings

After a wasted effort by Steven Matz thanks to a brutal defensive play by rookie CF Josh Palacios, the Blue Jays were right back at it, trying to snap the untimely 2-game skid. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Kevin Smith at 1B. Randal Grichuk was back in CF after a complete day off yesterday. Teo was given the complete day off. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • Jose Urena pitching line: 3IP 3H 0R 0BB 2K 49 pitches (32 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 6th as Alejandro Kirk smashed a solo bomb to left
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Randal Grichuk
  • The Tigers got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Jeimer Candelario singled home Jonathan Schoop
  • A batter later, Robbie Grossman scored on a fielder's choice hit by Eric Hasse
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 6.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 8K 103 pitches (69 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th as Corey Dickerson singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • Final score: Blue Jays 3 Tigers 2

My Take:

  • Alek Manoah had another brilliant outing. He allowed exactly 2 base runners through the 1st 6 innings (both in the 3rd inning on a hit by pitch and single that he masterfully escaped by inducing an MK special). He had out streaks of 7 and 10. Manoah has the potential to dominate in this league. Charlie Montoyo maybe could have pulled him a batter early, but I can see the reasoning for giving him the opportunity to walk off the field with his teammates after such a gem.
  • The bullpen was mostly excellent today. Jordan Romano needed just 20 pitches to get through two innings. He's blossoming into the likes of Tom Henke, Duane Ward and Casey Jansen. Every time he takes the ball, you expect good things to happen. Trevor Richards escaped the jam in the 7th. It's just too bad he couldn't prevent the tying run from crossing the plate.
  • The offense continues to look ike it would have trouble scoring if they were trying to hit a beach ball. They had their chances tonight and for the most part struggled to drive anything in, until it mattered. Vlad had a clutch base hit in the 10th to give the Blue Jays a much-needed win.  Still, they never should have been in that position. The Blue Jays were an abysmal 1-9 with runners in scoring position tonight. Corey Dickerson had the hot stick tonight, going 3-4, and drove in the game-winning run.
  • Santiago Espinal left the game due to an injured hip. Too bad really snce he has been the best 3rd baseman, albeit with limited playing time. Hopefully he's not out too long.
  • With the win, the Blue Jays gained a game on the Mariners, who lost to the Royals. They maintaned their position on the A's and Red Sox, who both lost. The Blue Jays are now 6.5 games back of the Red Sox, one game back of the Mariners, who are 5.5 back of the Red Sox and 3 games back of the A's, who are 3.5 games back of the Red Sox.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for two straight wins. Jose Berros starts against Tigers lefty Matthew Boyd.

Game #128 Toronto Blue Jays (66-61) @ Detroit Tigers (62-67)

 

Friday, August 27, 2021

Game #127 Toronto Blue Jays (66-61) @ Detroit Tigers (62-67) - game recap

 

Steven Matz threw 6 solid innings in a 2-1 loss to the Tigers 

After splitting the 4- game series to the White Sox, the Blue Jays went across Lake Erie for a weekend set in Detroit. The Tigers took two of three in Toronto last weekend, outscoring their former AL East rivals by a score of 9-7. The Blue Jays claimed Jarrod Dyson off waivers, In 77 games, Dyson is batting .221with 0 HR, 10 RBI and 8 stolen bases (he's been caught stealing 3 times). For every time he draws a walk, Dyson strikes out 4.5 times. Brad Hand was placed on the bereavement list as he deals with the death of his grandfather. Connor Overton was recalled from AAA-ball. Steven Matz got the start with Reese McGuire behind the plate. Teo got the half day off as DH with Corey Dickerson in RF and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF. Josh Palacios was in CF and Kevin Smith got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game  recap.

Game Highlghts:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bo Bichette
  • The Tigers tied the game in the bottom of the 4th as Miguel Cabrera singled scoring Jeimer Candelario
  • Matt Manning pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 83 pitches (58 for strikes)
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 2K 85 pitches (57 for strikes)
  • The Tigers took thelead in the bottom of the 8th on an inside-the-park HR to right-center by Victor Reyes.
  • Gregory Soto pitched a perfect 9th for his 16th save of the season

My Take:

  • Steven Matz threw 6 strong innings, allowing 1 run on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 2. He survived getting beaned by a comebacker in the 4th, but did well to get the out. Matz retired 8 in a row. It was a solid effort wasted by an inept offense
  • The bullpen conceded a late run on an ill-advised diving attempt by CF Josh Palacios that was flubbed and went all the way to the wall. Reyes chugged around the bases and scored fairly easily on the play. Palacios would have been better served to concede the hit and hold Reyes to a double, at most. Mayza allowed another hit and struck out a batter with a wild pitch, but eventually managed to escape the jam with just the one run allowed
  • Now let's talk about the Blue Jays offense, or lack thereof. They had chances in the first three innings, drawing a walk in the 1st inning, only to have Vlad ground out and Teo strike out swinging. In the second inning, the Blue Jays had runners on 1st and 2nd with none out and did absolutely nothing. Essentially Palacios achieved the same result he would have with a sac bunt by swinging away and grounding one right to first base. Kevin Smith, who looks very overmatched against big league pitchers popped out and Reese McGuire was called out on strikes. In the 3rd inning, finally a legit run! A air of doubles brought one home.
  • After the 5th inning, the Blue Jays had a grand total of 1 base runner: a 2-out walk to Teo. The next batter, Corey Dickerson, hit a routine grounder to end that threat.
  • The Blue Jays were a pathetic 1-8 with runners in scoring position.
  • In terms of the wild card race, The Yankees were up 1-0 on the A's in the top of the 4th and the Mariners were up 3-1 in the bottom of the 1st (and threatening to tack on a lot more with the bases jammed and just 1 out) on the Royals. The Red Sox beat the Indians earlier.. The Blue Jays are 6.5 games back of the Red Sox for the 2nd WC spot. They are 2.5 games back of the Mariners, who are 4 games back of the Red Sox and they are 3.5 games back of the A's, who are 3 games back of the Red Sox. Bottom line, theBlue Jays need to go on a significant streak and probably get help from other teams.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid. Alek Manoah gets the start against Tigers righty Jose Urena.

Game #127 Toronto Blue Jays (66-60) @ Detroit Tigers (61-67)

 

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Game #126 Chicago White Sox (74-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (66-60) - game recap

Marcus Semien was 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 4 RBI in a 10-7 loss to the White Sox

After another late game rally and outstanding performance by Robbie Ray, the Blue Jays were going for their second straight win. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with Reese McGuire behind the plate. Alejandro Kirk DH'd in an effort to create more offense. Kevin Smith was in LF and Vlad was back in thefield after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Marcus Semien bashed a solo blast to left
  • The White Sox tied it up in the top of the 2nd as Cesar Hernandez whacked a solo shot just over the fence in left
  • The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Luis Robert drilled a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Tim Anderson
  • A batter later, Jose Abreu smack a solo blast to left
  • The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Leury Garcia doubled scoring Andrew Vaughn and Hernandez
  • Two batters later, Anderson singled home Garcia
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 3.2IP 7J 7R (all earned) 1BB 4K 66 pitches (45 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Semien singled scoring Reese McGuire
  • The White Sox added a run in the top of the 6th as Seby Zavala doubled scoring Garcia.
  • A batter laater, Anderson singled home Zavala
  • Carlos Rodon pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 67 pitches (46 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Randal Grichuk singled home Alejandro Kirk 
  • A batter later, Santiago Espinal scored on a ground out by Corey Dickerson
  • Two batters later, Bo Bichette singled home Grichuk
  • A batter later, Semien hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Bichette
  • Bench coach John Schneider was ejected by home plate umpire Jordan Baker for arguing balls and strikes
  • The White Sox added a run in thetop of the 9th as Eloy Jimenez drilled a solo bomb to dead center 
  • Craig Kimbrel pitched a scoreless 9th for his 24th save of the season
  • Final score: White Sox 10 Blue Jays 7

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu was lit up for 7 runs on 7 hits while walking one and striking out 4 over 3.2 innings pitched. He started out well, getting through the first inning in just 9 pitches, but then he started getting too much of the plate and the White Sox took him yard three times for 4 runs over the nex two innings. He then couldn't get out of the 4th inning. Robbie Ray is really the ace at this point.
  • The bullpen had mixed results. Taylor Saucedo and Trent Thornton both had clean 1.1 inning appearances. Brad Hand allowed 2 runs on 3 hits in 0.2 of an inning. Trevor Richards allowed a solo shot in the 9th that REALLY put the game out of reach. Craig Kimbrel is still a formidable reliever and getting 2 runs off him is hard, asking the offense to get three runs was impossible. Hand, it's fair to say, was a bad trade, especially for not one but 2 top prospects.
  • Marcus Semien had the hot bat today, going 3-5 with 2 runs scored and 4 RBI.
  • It was encouraging to see the struggling offense put up a 5-spot in the 6th inning.
  • Every Blue Jays starter, except Kevin Smith and Santiago Espinal had at least one hit.
  • The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position and they did not hit into any double plays.
  • In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays dropped a half game to the teams above them (A's, Red Sox, Yankees, Mariners) with the loss. Go Yankees, Twins and Royals.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road for a quick weekend series in Detroit before beginning a 6 game, 7-day home stand against the Orioles and A's. Tommorrow night's pitching matchup features Steven Matz up against Tigers righty Matt Manning

Game #126 Chicago White Sox (73-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (66-59)

 

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Game #125 Chicago White Sox (73-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (66-59) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray fired 7 strong innings, tying his career high in strikeouts with 14K in a crucial 3-1 win over the White Sox 

After a game lost thanks to a bad 1st inning by Jose Berros that the Blue Jays never recovered from, they were looking to take the lead in the series and keep pace in a wild card race where the top four (Boston, NY Yankees, Oakland A's and Seattle) are quickly separating themselves from the pack. Cavan Biggion was diagnosed with a grade 1 UCL strain and is listed as week to week. George Springer is making good progress and may posaibly return on the road trip that begins Friday. Joakim Soria returned from the IL after mussing 10 days with inflammation in his middle finger. Connor Overton was optioned to AAA. Robbie Ray got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. at 1B and Corey Dickerson in LF. Randal Grichuk was back in CF after the day off yesterday. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays take the series lead? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Yoan Moncada singled home Leury Garcia
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 4th as Corey Dickerson tripled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • Lucas Giolito pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 93 pitches (61 for strikes)
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 14K 111 pitches (77 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Alejandro Kirk singled home Teoscar Hernandez
  • Two batters later, Brevic Valera was forced home on a bases loaded walk to Randal Grichuk
  • Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 13th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 3 White Sox 1

My Take:

  • If Pete Walker keepshis job at the end of the season, he can thank Robbie Ray. The stalwart Blue Jays lefty tied his career high with 14 strikeouts. The one run allowed was a run-scoring single after Leury Garcia stole 2 bases. At one point he retired nine in a row. He struck out the last 2 batters he faced swinging with runners on 1st and 2nd. Too bad he can't hit as well as Shohei Ohtani.
  •  The bullpen was excellent today. Both Tim Mayza and Jordan Romano retired the side in order, although Romano needed the assistance of a double play. Mayza struck out 2 in his inning of work.
  • Corey Dickerson had the hot bat, going 2-3 with an RBI.
  • It was nice to see the Blue Jays cash in with an 8th inning run for the 2nd time in 3 games. It's no secret the offence has gone ice cold at an inopportune time, but there are too many good hitters in this lineup to not have the potential to score at any moment
  • The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position.
  • In terms of the wild card race, The Yankees, A's and Mariners were all idle today and the Red Sox lost. The Blue Jays are now 4.5 games back of the Red Sox for the 2nd WC spot.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the series with the White Sox. Hyun-Jin Ryu gets the start against White Sox lefty Carlos Rodon

Game #125 Chicago White Sox (73-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-59)

 

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

Game #124 Chicago White Sox (73-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-59) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had a pair of hits and drove in a run in a 5-1 loss to the White Sox

After a soid late inning win, the Blue Jays were looking to make it a 2-game win streak. Jose Berros got the start. Corey Dickerson got the half day off as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF. Josh Palacios got the start in CF as Randal Grichuk got the complete day off. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jose Abreu drilled a 3-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Luis Roberts and Yoan Moncada
  • Pete Walker was ejected by Home plate umpire Mark Carlson for arguing balls and strikes
  • Five batters later, Danny Mendick doubled scoring Brian Goodwin
  • Jose Berros pitching line: 3IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 6K 68 pitches (45 for strikes)
  • The White Sox added a run in the top of the 4th on a ground out by Abreu that scored Robert
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Corey Dickerson whacked a solo blast to right
  • Dylan Cease pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K 95 pitches (58 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled home Teoscar Hernandez
  • Liam Hendricks got the last 5 outs for his 29th save of the season.
  • Final score: White Sox 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

  • Jose Berros was lit up for 4 runs on 9 hits while walking none and striking out 6, He threw a ton of pitches in the 1st inning, and combined with quick innings by White Sox starter Dylan Cease meant that Berros was done after three innings. 
  • The bullpen bent and for the most part didn't break. Trent Thornton, Connor Overton and Brad Hand combined to allow 1 run, 7 hits while walking 2 batters while striking out 5. Once again, the offence did next to nothing.
  • Through 3.2 innings, the Blue Jays were staring down the barrel of a perfext game against, until Vlad broke the bid with a two out single. Corey Dickerson broke the shutout bid with a solo shot and the Blue Jays got one in the 9th off the White Sox closer.
  • The Blue Jays loaded the bases in the 8th, only to have Vad ground into yet another double play, AKA an MK special
  • The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
  • In terms of the WC race, the Yankees and Red Sox and Mariners all won. This means the Blue Jays are 5.5 games back of the Red Sox for the second wild card spot, 2.5 games of the Mariners, who are 3 games back of the 2nd WC spot and 3.5 baxk of the A's, who are 2 games back of the 2nd WC spot.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to take the lead in the series. Robbie Ray gets the start against White Sox righty Lucas Giolito.

Game #124 Chicago White Sox (72-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-58)

 

Monday, August 23, 2021

Game #123 Chicago White Sox (72-54) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-58) - game recap

 

Breyvic Valera scored the game-wimning run on a wild pitch in the 8th as the Blue Jays edged the White Sox 2-1

After dropping 2 of 3 in extra innings to the Tigers over the weekend, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win over the 1st place AL Center Chiicago White Sox. Chicago took 2 of three in the Windy city back in June and outscored the Blue Jays 13-9. The wild card race is looking a little bleak. The Blue Jays have 2 teams to leap frog and are 4.5 games back of the 2nd WC spot. The good news is the Blue Jays have 3 games left against the A's and 6 games left vs. the Yankees. They are done with Seattle and Boston. Alek Manoah got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was DH with Corey Dickerson in LF. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 6th as Andrew Vaughn singled scoring Yoan Moncada
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled home Bo Bichette 
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 108 pitches (68 for strikes)
  • Lance Lynn pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 4K 86 pitches (52 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th on a wild pitch byCraig Kimbrel that scored Breyvic Valera
  • Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 12th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 2 White Sox 1

My Take:

  • Alek Manoah pittched 6 strong innings, allowing one run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. Basically, he matched Lance Lynn pitch for pitch on yet another night where the offense failed to manufacture much of anything.
  • The bullpen was perfect over the final three innings, combining to strike out 5 of the final nine batters 
  • Reese McGuire had the hot bat with 2 hits. The winning run was manufactured by some heads-up bases running by Breyvic Valera
  • The Blue Jays were an abysmal 1-10 with runners in scoring position and they hit into two more double plays.
  • In terms of the wild card race, The Yankees and Red Sox both won, while the A's were leading the Mariners 2-0 in the bottom of the 5th. Eseentially, pending the results of the A's-Mariners, the Blue Jays will gain a game on the loser of that game and pretty much maintain position on the other teams. As I said in the preamble, the Blue Jays need help to win the WC race. They also must sweep the A's and take at least 4 of the remaining 6 vs. the Yankees.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins. Jose Berros gets the start against White Sox righty Dylan Cease

Game #123 Chicago White Sox (72-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (64-58)

 

Sunday, August 22, 2021

Game #122 Detroit Tigers (60-66) @ Toronto Blue Jays (64-58) - game recap

 

Steven Matz threw 6 solid innings in a losing effort as the Blue Jays were defeated 5-3 by the Tigers in 11 innings

After a hard fought win over the Tigers, the Blue Jays  were looking for their second straight win. Alek Manoah was reinstated from the bereavement list with Otto Lopez beng optioned to AAA. Steven Matz got the start. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Corey Dickerson served as DH today with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teo in RF. Kevin Smith was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the second on a fielding error by Jeimer Candelario  on a ball hit by Teoscar Hernandez that scoredBo Bichette 
  • Drew Hutchison pitching line: 4.1IP 4H 1R (unearned) 1BB 1K 61 pitches (42 for strikes)
  • The Tigers tied the game as Miguel Cabrera whacked his 500th career HR on an opposite-field shot to right-center 
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 1K 95 pitches (60 for atrikes)
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled scoring Corey Dickerson
  • The Tigers tied the game in the top of the 9th on a throwing error by Marcus Semien on a ball hit by Harold Castro that scored Willi Castro
  • The Tigers took the lead in the top of the 10th on a sac fly by Jonathan Schoop that scored Zack Short 
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • The Tigers retook the lead in the top of the 11th as Daz Cameron doubled scoring Robbie Grossman
  • A batter later, Willi Castro doubled home Cameron
  • Joe Jiminez pitched a perfect 11th for his 1st save of the season
  • Final score: Tigers 5 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

  • Steven Matz was solid, allowing one run (Miguel Cabrera's 500th career HR), plus 4 other hits while walking none and striking out 1. He had one clean inning in the 2nd, but made enough pitches to minimize the damage and escape innings.
  • The bullpen had mixed results today. Trent Thornton and Trevor Richards, two pitchers who you typically cross your fingers and toes that they don't implode, had clean innings. Adam Cimber was victimized by a bad throw from a normally steady Marcus Semien. The two sides traded sac flies in the 10th. Kirby Snead looked like he was going to get hold in the 11th to give the Blue Jays a second chance at a walk off, but gave up back to back doubles after retiring the first 2 batters he faced. You can't really pin this one on the bullpen. The Blue Jays offence has been cold of late. 
  • Offensively, the Blue Jays took advantage of a fielding error in the 2nd, had Lourdes drive in a run via a single and had Alejandro Kirk drive in a run with a sac fly. Note; the Blue Jays did not attempt a sac bunt in either of the extra innings and produced just one run
  • Lourdes and Bo swung hot bats today, both collecting three hits 
  • Every Blue Jays starter, except Vlad (drew 2 walks), Teo and Kevin Smith had at least one hit.
  • The Blue Jays were a brutal 1-17 with runners in scoring position
  • The Yankees and Red Sox were rained out, so the Blue Jays only lost a half game to them. The A's lost to the Giants and the Mariners beat the Astros in 11 innings. The Blue Jays are now 4 back of the A's and Red Sox, who are tied for the 2nd WC spot and 1 back of the Mariners, who are 3 back of the A's and Red Sox.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays begin a 4-game set against the White Sox. The White Sox took 2 of 3 in Chicago back in June and outscored the Blue Jays 13-9 Monday's pitching is Alek Manoah against White Sox righty Lance Lynn.

Game #122 Detroit Sellecks (59-66) @ Toronto Montoyas (64-57)


Saturday, August 21, 2021

Game #121 Detroit Tigers (59-66) @ Toronto Blue Jays (64-57) - game recap

 

Hyun-Jin Ryu threw 7 shutout innings in a 3-0 shutout win over the Tigers

After a brutal loss yesterday due to an inept offense and the bullpen spotting the Tigers three runs in extra innings, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the three game losing streak. Rafael Dolis cleared waivers and was assigned to Buffalo. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start, Reese McGuire was behind the plate, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. DH'd with Corey Dickerson was in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-gane skid? ere is today's game recap.

Game Highlights;

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Randal Grichuk whacked a 2-run shot to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Santiago Espinal
  • Wily Peralta pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 2K 64 pitches (61 for strikes)
  • Htyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 7IP 5H 0R 1BB 5K 105 pitches (70 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Marcus Semien drilled a solo bomb to the second deck in left
  • Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 11th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 3 Tigers 0

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu gave the Blue Jays what they desperately needed: 7 shutout innings, scattering 5 hits while walking none and striking out 5. Ryu has generally lived up to his hefty contract and been the ace the Blue Jays signed.
  • The bullpen was excellent tonight, allowing just one hit while striking out 4, including closer Romano striking out the side
  • The offense did enough on this day as Ryu and the pitching was good enough to allow a 2-run jack by Randal Grichuk to stand. Marcus Semien gave Romano a third insurance run with a solo bomb in the 8th. Unfortunately, not much doing in between.
  • The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position and they grounded into 2 more double plays 
  • In terms of the wild card race, the Yankees and Rays both won earlier today, the A's were leading San Francisco at the time of this posting and the Red Sox were slated to play the Rangers later. The Blue Jays are 5 back of the A's for the 2nd WC spot, 1 back of Seatlle (the Mariners are 4 back of the A's) and 4.5 games behind the Red Sox, who are a half game back of the A's. The Blue Jays aren't winning the AL East (they are 10.5 games back of the Rays, who are 1st in the AL East and 4 games ahead of the 2nd place Yankees
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it 2 wins in a row. Steven Matz starts against ex-Blue Jays righty Drew Hutchinon 

Game #121 Detroit Sellecks (59-65) @ Toronto Montoyas (63-57)

 

Friday, August 20, 2021

Game #120 Detroit Tigers (59-65) @ Toronto Blue Jays (63-57) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray threw 8 strong innings in a 4-1 extra innings loss to the Tigers 

After a brutal 2-game sweep to the Nationals thanks to the bullpen squandering 2 more games (the first loss finally cost Rafael Dolis his job and the second loss was more evidence the Blue Jays may have made a severe error of judgment giving up Riley Adams, who torched the Blue Jays this week, who Brad Hand, who literally handed the Nationals the game by giving up 2 bombs for 4 runs. The Blue Jays were looking to turn things around against a Tigers team, who they took 4 of 7 games from and outscored 34-16 in 2019. Robbie Ray got the start. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Kevin Smith made his big league debut as DH

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. bashed a solo bomb to dead center 
  • The Tigers tied the game in the top of the 8th on a wild pitch by Robbie Ray that scored Zack Short 
  • Tyler Alexander pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 6K 88 pitches (56 for strikes)
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 11K 109 pitches (72 for strikes)
  • The Tigers took the lead in the top of the 10th as Harold Castro singled home Willi Castro
  • Two batters later, Jonathan Schoop singled scoring Castro
  • A batter later, Jeimer Candelario singled home Robbie Grossman
  • Final score: Tigers 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

  • Let's start with the good. Robbie Ray was fantastic today, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 11 (too bad his counterpart matched him pitch for pitch). He retired the first four batters he faced and nine of the last ten he faced. He might save Pete Wallker his job because clearly something needs to change in the coaching mix. You can't keep wasting the prime years of Vlad and Bo (among others). God knows what the next CBA will bring in terms of how many years of control teams will have of marquee players.
  • Now for the bad. Trevor Richards gave up three runs (2 earned) in the 10th when the Blue Jays needed a shutdown inning for a second crack at walking off the game. It's not entirely his fault, he made his pitch, but a good hitter managed to dump it for a base knock
  • The real culprits of this one was the offense. They were an abysmal 0-9 with runners in scoring position. The 9th was perhaps the most egregious. I'll get a ton of flack for this, but bunting to move the runner over was the right call. Doing it with two strikes not. Had Breyvic Valera successfully laid one down, there would have been runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out. Assuming the Tigers didn't opt to intentionally walk Randal Grichuk for the DP chance, they could have scored with a sac fly or even a well-placed grounder. If I were running the team, I would have bunted in that situation too. Nobody got more than one hit, although Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Saniago Espinal did get on base multiple times through walks they drew.
  • In terms of the wild card race, the Yankees and Red Sox both won, while the A's were leading the Giants at the time of this posting.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the three game losing streak. Hyun-Jin Ryu starts against Tigers righty Wily Peralta 

Game #120 Detroit Sellecks (58-65) @ Toronto Blue Jays (63-56)

 

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Game #119 Toronto Blue Jays (63-56) @ Washington Nationals (52-68) - game recap

 

Marcus Semien hit a paur of solo HR in an 8-5 loss to the Nationals 

After a terrible loss due to poor pitching by both starter Alek Manoah and relievers Taylor Saucedo and RFel Dolis, the Blue Jays were looking to earn the season series split with a win today. Dolis was DFA'd (finally) after another dreadful performance. Alek Manoah was placed on the bereavement list. Tim Mayza is back after missing ten days with left elbow inflammation.Kevin Smith was added to the roster and active today. Jose Berros got the start with Reese McGuire behind the plate. Breyvic Valera was at the hot corner and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF. Could the Blue Jays split the season series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Nationals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Juan Soto whacked a 3-run opposite-field blast to left; also scoring Victor Robles and Alcides Escobar
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 2nd as Teoscar Hernandez whacked a solo shot to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Marcus Semien crushed a solo bomb to left
  • Jose Berros pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 3BB 3K 88 pitches (49 for strikes)
  • The Nationals added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Ryan Zimmerman singled scoring Carter Kieboom
  • Josiah Gray pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 87 pitches (55 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 7th as Corey Dickerson smashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Randal Grichuk
  • A batter later, Semien whacked his second solo blast into the Blue Jays bullpen in left-center 
  • The Nationals retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Josh Bell hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Escobar and Soto
  • Two batters later, Kieboom whacked a solo blast to left
  • Kyle Finnegan threw a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season
  • Final score: Nationals 8 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

  • Jose Berros had a rough start to his start, giving up a 3-run blast in the 1st inning. Berros dealth with base runners in all five innings, but managed to limit the dame to just three runs
  • Much like yesterday, the Blue Jays clawed their way back from an early deficit, only to see the bullpen blow it late. It's been a trend all season, and management thought they had stopped the bleeding with their in-season and deadline moves, but the bulpen has blown games late two days in a row. This time, Brad Hand gave up a devastating 3-run shot immediately after the Blue Jays had taken the lead. He also gave up a solo shot to really put the game out of reach
  • Offensively, the home run was king. The Blue Jays launched 4 home runs for five runs. They were 1-5 with runners in scoring position.
  • Marcus Semien, Bo Bichette and Teoscar Hernandez all had multi-hit days. Lourdes Gurriel Jr was the only other starter to get a hit (Corey Dickerson has a oinch hit 2-run shot and Breyvic Valera, Randal Grichuk and Reese McGuire all drew walks)
  • In terms of the wild card race, The Yankees were winning in the top of the 9th and the A's were down in the top of the 7th and the Rays were down at the time of this positing. The Blue Jays need to string together wins.
  • Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open up a 3-game set at home vs. the Tigers. In 2019, the Blue Jays won 4  of the 7 games in the season series last year and outscored the Tigers 34-16. Robbie Ray gets the start Friday against an unknown Tigers pitcher.

Game #119 Toronto Blue Jays (63-55) @ Washington Nationals (51-68)


Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Game #118 Toronto Blue Jays (63-55) @ Washington Nationals (51-68) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez was 2-4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI in a 12-6 loss to the Nationals

After winning Sunday to avoid a weekend sweep to the Mariners, the Blue Jays opened a mini 2-game series against the Nationals. The Blue Jays and Nationals split the 2 games in Dunedin back at the end of April, with the Nationals outscoring the Blue Jays 13-11. Alek Manoah got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. George Springer was place on the 10-day IL with a left knee sprain (Otto Lopez was recalled), so Corey Dickerson was in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teo in RF. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Nationals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Yadiel Hernandez whacked a solo blast to left
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 3rd on a ground out by Corey Dickeson that scored Bo Bichette
  • The Nationals took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Alcides Escobar doubled scoring Riley Adams and Victor Robles
  • Three batters later, Hernandez singled home Escobar and Juan Soto
  • A batter later, Josh Bell scored on a thowing error by Alek Manoah
  • Same batter, Hernandez scored on a sac fly by Carter Kieboom
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 3IP 6H 7R (6 earned) 1BB 2K 53 pitches (33 for strikes)
  • The Nationals added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Adams whacked a solo blast to left
  • The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 5th as Teoscar Hernandez drilled a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th on a fielder's choice hit by Santiago Espinal that scored Hernandez
  • A batter later, Dickerson scored on a fielding error by Luis Garcia on a fielder's choice hit by Reese McGuire 
  • A batter after that Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Espinal
  • The Nationals added a run on a sac fly by Ryan Zimmerman that scored Soto
  • A batter later, Adams doubled scoring Lane Thomas and Kieboom
  • Two batters later, Robles singled home Adams
  • Final score: Nationals 12 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

  • Alek Manoah was lit up for 7 runs (6 earned) on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. He actually started out great, throwing an efficient 9 pitches, while retiring the side in order. He was taken yard in the 2nd. It was his final inning that he was really roughed up, giving up 6 runs on 4 hits, a hit batter and a walk, as well as an forced throwing error on an attempted pickoff. Manoah will bounce back, I have faith.
  • The bullpen blew any chance of a comeback. After the Blue Jays chipped away and reduced the Nationals lead to a manageable 2 runs, Taylor Saucedo and Rafael Dolis combined to give up 4 runs on 3 walks, 2 hits and a sac fly. Three of the runs were charged to Saucedo. Dolis must give Pete Walker nightmares. He is so methodical and slow and yet he is so inefficient and walks too many batters. Connor Overton was excellent in his second big league appearace, throwing 2 perfect innings, while striking out 2. Trent Thornton gave up a solo shot. Maybe this revamped bullpen isn't any better?
  • Vlad seems to be coming out of his slump. He was 2-3 and also drew 2 walks and scored a run. Fellow all-star Teoscar Hernandez bashed a 2-run shot, was 2-4 and later scored on a fielder's choice
  • Every Blue Jays starter except Markus Semien and Manoah got on base at least once.
  • The Blue Jays were a pitiful 1-11 with runners in scoring position
  • In terms of the wild card race, the Yankees swept the Red Sox in their double-header today, The Rays routed and blanked the Orioles and the A's were shut out by the White Sox (here's hoping A's pitcher Chris Bassitt is OK after getting hit in the head by a pitch). The Blue Jays are now 4 games back of the A's, Red Sox and Yankees, who are in a 3-way tie for the two wild card spots.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays go for the split. Jose Berros pitches against Nationals righty Josiah Gray.

Game #118 Toronto Blue Jays (63-54) @ Washington Nationals (50-68) "YouTube Only" Edition

 

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Game #117 Toronto Blue Jays (63-54) @ Seattle Mariners (63-56) - game recap

 

Corey Dickerson scored three times, including his 1st HR as a Blue Jay, in an 8-3 win over the Mariners to avoid the sweep

After the bullpen blew yet another late lead, the Blue Jays were looking escape Seattle with a win. Last night's loss was costly as George Springer was injured jump[ing for a ball that turned into a triple. He was out of the lineup today and looks to have escaped severe injury. Steven Matz got start and Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Breyvic Valera at 2B and Marcus Semien at SS. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2 game losing streak? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a passed ball by Alejandro Kirk that scored JP Crawford
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 2nd as Teoscar Heernandez whacked a solo blast to left-center and into the Mariners bullpen
  • Three batters later, Randal Grichuk hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Corey Dickerson
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Kirk doubld scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Dickerson
  • Logan Gilbert pitching line: 4IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 3K 88 pitches (60 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th on a throwing error by Cal Raleigh that scored Hernandez
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (unearned) 3BB 4K 95 pitches (53 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Dickerson smashed a solo blast to right-center 
  • The Mariners got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Kyle Seagar bashed a two-run shot to right-center; also scoring Mitch Hanigar
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Marcus Semien smashed a solo bomb to left
  • Final score: Blue Jays 8 Mariners 3

My Take:

  • Steven Matz threw a solid 5 innings, allowing an unearned run (thanks to a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk) on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. Matz has overall been one of the pleasant surprises of the year. He retired the final 4 batters he faced
  • Adam Cimber had another rough outing, this time giving up a 2-run shot in the 8th. The rest of the bullpen allowed 2 hits and a walk over 3 innings while striking out 4. Tim Mayza may be back soon/ He began a rehab in Buffalo today
  • Vlad is still trying to work his way out of a slump. He was 1-5 today and scored once. His fellow all-star Bo Bichette had a miserable day at the plate, striking out all five times he was at bat
  • Every starter, except Bichette and Breyvic Valera had at least one hit.
  • The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
  • In terms of the wild card race, the Red Sox and Yankees won, and the A's lost to the Rangers and the Rays lost to the Twins. This means the Blue Jays are 8 games back of the Rays for 1st in the AL East and 4.5 games back of Boston and Oakland, who are tied for the two spots in the AL wild card. The Blue Jays remain 2 games back of the Yankees  The Bluie Jays are likely to lose ground tomorrow as they are off whereas the Yankees host the Angels, the Rays host the Orioles and the A's are at the White Sox. 
  • Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays start a mini 2-game series in Washington. Tuesday's pitching matchup features Alek Manoah against Nationals righty Erick Fedde

Game #117 Toronto Blue Jays (62-54) @ Seattle Mariners (63-55)

 

Saturday, August 14, 2021

Game #116 Toronto Blue Jays (62-53) @ Seattle Mariners (62-55) / Saturday Night Spanish Guitar

 


Game #115 Toronto Blue Jays (62-53) @ Seattle Mariners (62-55) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray threw seven strong innings, but got the no-decision in a 3-2 walk-off loss to the Mariners

After winning three of four in LA, the Blue Jays moved onto Seattle. This was going to be an interesting series in that typically it would feel more like a home game on the road with fans typically making the trip down the I-5. However, with the border still closed on the US side to non-essential travel (Canada opened up its side for non-essential travel if double-vaxxed on Monday), there was likely to be a bigger ratio of Mariners fans this time around. Of course, these two teams did not meet in 2020 with the MLB essentially creating three divisions with the NL east facing AL East, the NL Central facing the AL Central and the AL West facing the NL West. The Mariners took 2 of 3 in Buffalo and outscored the Blue Jays 19-18. Robbie Ray got the start. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. at 1B. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup after missing a couple of days with soreness. Corey Dickerson was out after leaving last night's game with lower back stiffness, meaning Teoscar Hernandez was in LF, Springer back in CF after DH'ing last night and Randal Grichuk got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays make it four wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Matiners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Tom Murphy drilled a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Jarred Helenic
  • The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 3rd as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette 
  • Chris Flexen pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 73 pitches (46 for strikes)
  • Robbie Ray pitching line: 7IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 90 pitches (64 for strikes)7
  • The Mariners walked it off in the 9th on a bases loaded walk to Kelenic that forced in Kyle Seagar
  • Final score: Mariners 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

  • Robbie Ray was excellent tonight, other than a mistake pitch in the 3rd that cost him the 2 runs he allowed. Other than that, he threw an efficient 90 pitches over 7 innings and probably could have gone one more inning, but with the smoke and heat, it was best to call it a day. Ray retired the first six batters he faced, as well as the final 4. It's impressive what Pete Walker has done with him since he joined the team at the trade deadline in 2020.
  • Let's address tonight's management of the bullpen. It was fine. Trevor Richards threw a perfect 8th and struck out one. Charlie Montoyo had basically 2 options for the 9th: Jordan Romano and Adam Cimber. Both have been lights out this season and I think most Blue Jays armchair managers would have been fine with either option. Cimber had a rough outing, loading the bases on a pair of walks and a questionable infield single that should have been interference (I'll get to the horrible umpiring in a moment). Brad Hand was brought in for the lefty-lefty matchup. Hand got 3 outs with 6 pitches just yesterday. Also, consider that Tim Mayza is on the IL. The other options were rookies Taylor Saucedo and Kirby Snead. 
  • Let's talk about the umpires robbing the Blue Jays of a victory. Breyvic Valera should have been called safe. He clearly touched the front of home plate before Mariners catcher Tom Murphy swipe-tagged him. Then in the bottom half of the inming, interference was not called on Abraham Toro, who prevented Marcus Semien from making a play he would have made that would have sent the game into extra innings. 
  • Umpiring aside, the Blue Jays haven't been creating enough scoring chances. We're in a critical point of the season where the Blue Jays need to win these winnable games against weaker teams. You're not going to hit home runs every night, small ball needs to be in play too (yes bunting and hit and runs). 
  • In terms of the wild card race, the loss means the Blue Jays missed an opportunity to gain a game on the A's, who lost and fell back a game on the Red Sox and Rays, who both won.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the weekend series. It will be a battle of the lefties as ace Hyun-Jin Ryu pitches against Mariners lefty Yusei Kikuchi

Friday, August 13, 2021

Game #115 Toronto Blue Jays (62-52) @ Seattle Mariners (61-55)

 


Game #114 Toronto Blue Jays (62-52) @ LA Angels (58-58) - game recap

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

After a solid win on the strength of another outstanding performance by Alek Manoah and a grand slam by Teoscar Hernandez, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 3 out of 4 vs. the Angels. Tommy Milone cleared waivers and is now a free agent. Jose Berros got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Corey Dickerson in LF, Randal Grichuk in CF and Teoscar Hernandez in RF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Bo Bichette remained out with general body soreness, especially in the shins. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Angels opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd on a sac fly by Kurt Suzuki that scored Jo Adell.
  • Three batters later, Jared Walsh singled scoring Shohei Ohtani and Brandon Marsh
  • A batter after that, Phil Gosselin singled scoring David Fletcher 
  • The Angels added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Suzuki doubled scoring Jose Iglesias
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Marcus Semien
  • Two batters later, Randal Grichuk doubled home Hernandez
  • Corey Dickerson was removed from the game with lower back tightness
  • The Angels added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Adell singled home Iglesias 
  • Jose Berros pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 6R (all earned) 4BB 3K 93 pitches (60 for strikes)
  • Shohei Ohtani pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 6K 99 pitches (62 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. whacked a solo blast to left
  • Final score: Angels 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

  • Jose Berros had a rough start, giving up 6 runs on 8 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over 4.1 innings.. It was one of those games every pitcher goes through where Berros simply did not have his best stuff. Every inning Berros was contending with multiple base runners, including the 1st inning where he was able to pitch out of a bases loaded jam with one out. His best inning was the 4th where he retired the side in order, including 2 strikeouts 
  • The bullpen mostly held the fort, with Trent Thornton allowing an inherited run to score (he gave up one other hit as well). Kirby Snead gave up a hit and walk in his 1.2 innings. As a whole the bullpen has been much better since Shapiro basically overturned it with several key acquisitions through trade.
  • Not much doing offensively tonight. The Blue Jays got to Ohtani with a couple of runs in the 5th and got a garbage time solo shot in the 9th
  • It was nice to see Vlad get on base twice. He has been more patient at the plate the last couple of days.
  • The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
  • In terms of the wild card standings, both the Yankees and Red Sox lost while the A's blew out the Indians. The Blue Jays remain 2.5 games back of the 2nd WC spot and a half game back of the Yankees, who are 2 games back of the 2nd WC spot
  • Up next, the Blue Jays head north to Seattle. The Mariners took 2 of the 3 games in Buffalo, and outscored the Blue Jays 19-18. Friday's pitching matchup pits Robbie Ray against Mariners righty Chris Flexen

Thursday, August 12, 2021

Game #114 Toronto Blue Jays (62-51) @ LA Angels (57-58)


Game #113 Toronto Blue Jays (62-51) @ LA Angels (57-58) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez hit a grand slam in a 10-2 rout over the Angels

After splitting yesterday's double header, the Blue Jays were looking to take the series lead against the Angels. Ross Stripling was placed on the 10-day IL with an oblique strain. Trent Thornton was recalled from AAA and righty Connor Overton had his contract purchased. Patrick Murphy was DFA'd. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the complete day off with Breyvic Valera at 2B and Marcus Semien at SS. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. at 1B and Corey Dickerson in LF. Randal Grichuk also got the complete day off with George Springer 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 top of the 3rd as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. whacked an opposite-field shot to left
  • Three batters later, George Springer hammered a solo bomb to left-center 
  • The Angels tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Shohei Ohtani hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Jo Adell
  • The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 5th as Santiago Espinal singled home Gurriel Jr.
  • Four batters later, Teoscar Hernandez drilled a grand slam to left; also scoring Santiago, Springer and Marcus Semien
  • Dylan Bundy pitching line: 4IP 4H 3R (all earned) 0BB 2K 62 pitches (44 for strikes)
  • Alek Manoah pitching line: 6.2IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 11K 114 pitches (78 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th on a ground out by Alejandro Kirk that scored Hernandez
  • A batter later, Gurriel Jr. singled home Corey Dickerson
  • The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Springer smacked a solo blast to left
  • Final score: Blue Jays 10 Angels 2

My Take:

  • Alek Manoah was excellent most of the night, except for one mistake pitch that was taken yard by Shohei Ohtani, who has very much looked like Babe Ruth this season. Manoah scatterred 3 other hits and walked two batters while striking out a career high 11 batters. 
  • The bullpen was perfect over the final 2.1 innings. Brad Hand got through his inning using just 6 pitches. Hopefully that starts a hot streak for the lefty reliever, who was expected to be another late-inning reliever, but has struggled to find that form.
  • Offensively, all-star Teoscar Hernandez drilled a grand slam and later sccred in the 8th. George Springer continues to swing a hot stick with two more solo shots. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was 3-4 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI
  • One player who was not having fun was Vlad, who continues to struggle through a slump. He was 0-4 today, but drew a walk in his last AB.
  • The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position.
  • In terms of the wild card standings, the A's, Red Sox and Yankees all won, so the win merely meant keeping pace with the teams they are trying to pass in the standings. The Blue Jays (along with the Red Sox and Yankees) did gain a game on the Rays in the AL East thanks to the Red Sox pounding the Rays.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the series. With the season series knotted at 3, this will be the rubber match and bragging rights for next year. It will be a battle of the righties with Jose Berros pitching against Babe Ruth, I mean Shohei Ohtani.

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Game #113 Toronto Blue Jays (61-51) @ LA Angels (57-57)

 


Games #111 and 112 Toronto Blue Jays (61-51) @ LA Angels (57-57) - game recap (records will reflect what it was after the second game)

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. knocked in 2 runs in a 4-0 shutout win over the Angels in the second game of tonight's double header. The Angels took the 1st game by a score of 6-3

After a hugely successful return to Toronto homestand, in which the Blue Jays won 9 of 11, sweeping the Royals and taking 3 of 4 from the Indians and Red Sox, the Blue Jays hit the road, beginning with a 4 games in 3 night stretch against the Angels, in which the Blue Jays were the "home" team as a makeup for the rained out game April 11 in Dunedin. The Angels took two of three in that series. Steven Matz started the 1st and Ross Stripling started the 2nd game. Teoscar Hernandez DH'd in the 1st game and was in RF the 2nd game. George Springer was in the field the 1st game and DH'd the 2nd game. Corey Dickerson was in LF the 1st game and had the 2nd game off. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had the 1st game off and was in LF the 2nd game. Randal Grichuk was in RF the 1st game and CF the 2nd game.Breyvic Valera was at the hot corner the 1st game and Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner the 2nd game. Reese McGuire was behind the plate the 1st game and Alejandro Kirk caught the 2nd game. Could the Blue Jays sweep the double-header (or at least earn a split)? Here is tonight's game recap(s).

Game Highlights (1st game):

  • The Angels opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Justin Upton singled scoring Phil Gosselin and Jose Iglesias 
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Marcus Semien singled home George Springer
  • The Angels added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Iglesias and Upton scored on a fielding error by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a grounder hit by Jo Adell
  • Steven Matz pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 4R (2 earned) 3BB 5K 97 pitches (59 for strikes)
  • Chris Rodriguez pitching line: 4IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 2K 68 pitches (42 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of of the inning as Teoscar Hernandez singled home Semien
  • A batter later, Corey Dickerson tripled scoring Hernandez
  • The Angels added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Gosselin singled scoring Juan Lagares and Shohei Ohtani
  • Raisel Iglesias pitched a scoreless 7th for his 25th save of the season
  • Final score: Angels 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take (1st game):

  • Steven Matz battled through 4.2 innings, allowing 4 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. He was visibly frustrated by the strike zone on a few pitches. Vlad didn't help things by flubbing a grounder that led to two unearned runs and the Blue Jays were never able to recover
  • The bullpen allowed 2 runs on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1 over the final 2.1 innings
  • Marcus Semien, Breyvic Valera and Teoscar Hernandez combined to go 7-10 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBI. Corey Dickerson and Randal Grichuk had the other hits in the 1st game.
  • Everyone but Vlad, who struck out 3 times, and Bo Bichette got on base at least once (George Springer drew a walk and Reese McGuire drew 2 walks)
  • The Blue Jays were a dismal 1-8 with runners in scoring position
  • Up next, the second game of the double header. Ross Stripling gets the start against Angels lefty Juan Suarez

Game Highlights (2nd game):

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer 
  • Three batters later, Teoscar Hernandez singled home Guerrero Jr.
  • Ross Stripling pitching line: 2IP 1H 0R 1BB 0K 28 pitches (16 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. singled home Hernandez and Bo Bichette 
  • Jose Suarez pitching line: 5.1IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 88 pitches (56 for strikes)
  • Final score: Blue Jays 4 Angels 0

My Take (2nd game):

  • Tough one for Ross Stripling, who had to leave the game with an oblique strain. He did well to strand Shohei Ohtani at 3rd base after giving up a leadoff triple. His injury will likely mean that Steven Matz remains in the rotation
  • The bullpen was excellent over the final five innings, except for Jordan Romano making things interesting, loading the bases on a pair of hits and a walk. Luckily he got Shohei Ohtani to strike out to end the game 
  • Offensively, the Blue Jays jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the 1st inning, then got 2 clutch runs in the 6th inning. In between, the Blue Jays managed 2 base runners 
  • Every Blue Jays batter except Marcus Semien (although he drew 2 walks) and Randal Grichuk had at least one hit
  • The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
  • In terms of the wild card race, The A's won, but the Yankees and Red Sox lost. The Blue Jays gained a half game on the Yankees and are 2.5 games back of the A's, who hold the 2nd WC spot
  • Up next, the Blue Jays try to take the series lead. Alek Manoah starts against Angels righty Dylan Bundy

Sunday, August 8, 2021

Game #110 Boston Red Sox (65-49) @ Toronto Blue Jays (60-50) - game recap

 

George Springer was 2-4 with 4 runs scored and 3RBI as the Blue Jays came from behind to edge the Red Sox 9-8

After splitting yesterday's double header, the Blue Jays were looking to wrap up the homestand with a win. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start. Reese McGuire was behind the plate.George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing in the second game of the double header yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF after the game off in the 2nd game of yesterday's double-header. Corey Dickerson got the half day off as DH today.  Bo Biichette got the complete day off with Breyvic Valera at 2B and Espinal Santiago at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays end the home stand with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

  • The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Corey Dickerson singled scoring George Springer 
  • The Red Sox tied the game in the top of the 2nd as JD Martinez doubled home Rafael Devers 
  • A batter later, Kevin Plawecki singled home Martinez 
  • Four batters later, Enrique Hernandez singled scoring Plawecki 
  • The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 3rd as Plawecki doubled scoring Xander Bogaerts 
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Springer 
  • The Red Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Martinez singled scoring Hernandez and Bogaerts 
  • A batter later, Plawecki singled home  Devers 
  • Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 3.2IP 10H 7R 1BB 1K 76 pitches (49 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Reese McGuire 
  • The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 6th as Bobby Dalbec singled scoring Martinez 
  • Garrett Richards pitching line: 5IP 6H 4R (3 earned) 1BB 2K 86 pitches (56 for strikes)
  • The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Marcus Semien that scored Springer 
  • A batter later, Hernandez singled home Guerrero Jr. 
  • The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Springer hammered  a 3-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Breyvic Valera and McGuire 
  • Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 10th save of the season
  • Final score: Blue Jays 9 Red Sox 8

My Take:

  • Hyun-Jin Ryu had his worst outing of the season, getting lit up for 7 runs on 10 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. It's almost like the Red Sox woke up a bit and realized their precarious grip on a wild card spot was slipping with the Yankees on the verge of sweeping the Mariners and Oakland feasting on the lowly rangers.  Seriously though,  Ryu was simply catching too much of the plate and the Red Sox were not missing today. Ryu also seems most comfortable throwing to Danny Jansen, who's still not close to returning from his latest hamstring injury. 
  • You have to give a ton of credit to the bullpen for holding the Red Sox to 6 hits.1 run and a walk after the 4th inning. It allowed the Blue Jays offense to chip away at the lead and a sizzing George Springer to give the Blue Jays the lead. It was the second blown save in 3 games for Matt Barnes. Jordan Romano has been stellar in the closer's role. The Blue Jays just might have the chance to do some damage in the playoffs, that looks like a better and better possibility with each passing day
  • This is why the Blue Jays paid $150 million for George Springer. He was directly responsible for 6 of the 9 runs scored tonight, scoring 4 himself and driving home a further 2 to complete the comeback.
  • Reese McGuire also played a key role. Although, he was 0-2 at the plate, he drew 2 walks, including a huge one in the 8th that allowed Springer the opporrunity to rip the roof right off the Roger's Centre with a huge bomb. Oh yeah and he scored twice too
  • Breyvic Valera continues to make the most of his opportunity to play. He was 2-4 today and scored once
  • This win was huge in so many ways. They shrunk the Red Sox grip on the 1st overall WC spot to 0.5 games and will likely be tied with the A's with Oakland looking poised to sweep the Rangers (the A's were up 5-1 on the Rangers after 4 innings at the time of this posting). The Blue Jays also gained a game on the Yankees thanks to their loss to the Mariners.
  • Up next, the Blue Jays head on a crucial west coast swing that begins Tuesday in Anaheim/LA against the Angels that begins with a double header where the Blue Jays will be the "home" team as a makeup for the April 11 game in Dunedin that was rained out. Ross Stripling will start the 2nd game against Angels lefty Jose Suarez. Neither team has named a starter for game 1.