Game #129- Chicago Cubs (56-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-59) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk hit a three-run HR in a 7-5 loss to the Cubs

After winning on Marcus Stroman's first game against the Blue Jays (Stroman got a no-decision), the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and sweep their 6th series of the season. It was the annual Jays Care auction game with all proceeds going to the Jays care foundation and providing play-based programs for kids. Mitch White got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in CF after the half day off as DH yesterday. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays sweep their 19th series of the season, extend the win streak to 3 games and end the home stand on a winning note? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #129 Chicago Cubs (55-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-58)

 

Game #128- Chicago Cubs (55-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-58) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez gave the Blue Jays the lead in the 6th inning with a 3-run HR in a 5-3 come-from-behind win over the Cubs

After a nice come from behind win over the Cubs, the Blue Jays were looking for their second straight win and 19th series win of the season against old friend/ex-teammate Marcus Stroman. He pitched for the Blue Jays 2014-19, compiling a record of 47-45 with a 3.76 ERA in 135 games (129 starts). Stroman was 1-1 with a 4.40ERA in 5 playoff starts in 2015 and 2016. The Stro show made a miracle recovery from ACL surgery when he tore the ligament on a sprinkler head in 2015. Working with Nikki Huffman, who would become the Blue Jays head trainer for 2 seasons in 2018 and 2019, Stroman made it back foor 4 starts in September and 27 innings with a sparkling 1.67ERA. He then started 3 of the playoff games that season. Unfortunately, for all his talent, Stroman was at times too opinionated, leading to heated exchanges in the dugout and also on social media. He was traded to the Mets on July 28, 2019 for Simeon Woods-Richardson and Anthony Kay. Neither Ksy nor Woods-Richardson have been able to make the bigs for very long. Kay has played in 28 games over the last 4 seasons and is far down the depth chart for the Blue Jays behind Tim Mayza, Yusei Kikuchi and Taylor Saucedo, Woods-Richardson is now in the Twins minor league system and has never played a big league game. He's bounced around the minors, primarily at the AA-level and was recently demoted back to AA-ball after starting the year at the AAA-ball level. Back to Stroman. Tonight was the first time he has faced the Blue Jays in his career. He has faced every other team in the league at least three times. No doubt he'll be motivated to beat his former team.

Kevin Gausman got the start for the Blue Jays with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr. in CF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and 19 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Cubs opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Wilson Contreras smacked a solo blast to left-center 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Danny Jansen
• The Cubs retook the lead in the top of the 6th as Christopher Morel drilled a solo bomb to dead center 
• Marcus Stroman pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 1K 88 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Teoscar Hernandez bashed a 3-run jack to the opposite field in right; also scoring Bo Bichete and Matt Chapman
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 9K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Cubs got one back in the top of the 7th as Morel doubled scoring Nelson Velazquez
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Guerrero Jr. belted a solo bomb to the opposite field in right 
• Jordan Romano got the final 5 outs for his 28th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Cubs 3

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw six strong innings, giving up a pair of runs on five his while walking one and striking out nine. Gausman was helped by early double plays. The Cubs took him yard twice, but both times were only solo shots. Gausman is likely to start the second game of a 3-game WC series, especially if the Blue Jays were to lose the opening game. Berrios is simply too much of a risk to start an elimination game. 
• The bullpen held the Cubs to a run on two hits while walking two and striking out three over the final three innings. Jordan Romano got the final five outs - the 9th time Romano has worked multiple innings. 
• The offence was only able to muster one run on 3 hits and 2 walks off former Blue Jays starter Marcus Stroman. Teo and Vlad combined to drive in 4 runs with opposie field HR jacks in the 6th and 7th innings respectively.
• In terms of the WC race., the Orioles lost and the Mariners and Rays won. This means the Blue Jays maintain their position with the 3rd WC spot a half game back of the Mariners and a game back of the Rays. The Orioles are 3 games back of the Blue Jays for the last WC spot and the Twins are 3.5 games of the Blue Jays 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 5th series sweep of the season and 3rd straight win overall. Mitch White gets the start, while the Cubs have not announced a starter for the game.

Game #128 Chicago Cubs (55-74) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-58)

 

Game #127- Chicago Cubs (55-74) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-58) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen drove in four runs and scored once in a 5-4 come-from-behind win over the Cubs in 11 innings

After another loss to extend the losing streak to three games and being swept for the 4th time this season, the Blue Jays began a three-game series against the Cubs. The Blue Jays were swept by the Cubs last time these two teams met in 2017 with the Cubs outscoring the Blue Jays 17-12. The Blue Jays claimed Bradley Zimmer off waivers from the Phillies. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate.Teo got the full day off to rest his sore foot with Raimel Tapia in RF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3 game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Cubs opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd on a ground out by Wilson Contreras that scored Alfonso Rivas.
• The Cubs added a run in the top of the 4th as Nico Hoerner singled scoring Seiya Suzuki
• The Cubs added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as PJ Higgins doubled scoring Franmil Reyes and Rafael Ortega
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5.2IP 10H 4R (all earned) 1BB 4K 102 pitches (69 for strikes)
• Javier Assad pitching line: 5IP 4H 0R 2BB 1K 80 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got three back in the bottom of the 7th as Danny Jansen hammered a 3-run bomb to the second deck in left-center; also scoring Matt Chapman and Raimel Tapia
• Thr Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 8th as Chapman singled scoring Cavan Biggio 
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 11th as Jansen singled home Santial Espinal
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Cubs 4

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 10 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Not his best start, not his worst start. Berrios was able to escape innings with minimal or no damage.  Unfortunately, Tim Mayza gave up an RBI double to tack on two more runs to Berrios' pitching line.
• Other than the RBI double Mayza gave up, the bullpen limited the Cubs to two hits and two intential walks over the last 4.1 innings. 
• The Blue Jays evidently took manager John Schneider's words about focusing to heart. They came up with several defensive gems; a diving catch by George Springer, a heads up play by Jackie Bradley Jr. in the 11th to nail Franmil Reyes at Second base and a snag of a sharp line drive in the 10th to erase the ghost runner and get two outs right away 
• Danny Jansen was the big hero tonight. A three-run bomb in the 7th to get the Blue Jays within one and driving in the winning run in the 11th with a clutch base hit 
• Every Blue Jays starter except George Springer had at least one hit 
• The Mariners, Orioles and Rays were all idle so the Blue Jays gained a half game on all three iu the WC standings 
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for two straight wins and their 19th series win of the season. They'll be facing former teammate Marcus Stroman. The Blue Jays will counter with righty Kevin Gausman

Game #127 Chicago Cubs (55-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-58)

 

Game #126- LA Angels (55-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-58) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had a pair of hits and drove in a run in an 8-3 loss to the Angels. It was the fourth time this season that the Blue Jays have been swept.

After being on the losing end of a tight pitchers duel yesterday, the Blue Jays were hoping to snap the two game skid on a weekend where they were celebrating the 30th anniversary of their first world series championship. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back at 1B after DH'ing yesterday. Whit Merrifield got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2 game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this  season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Luis Rengifo smack a 2- run blast to right and into the Angels bullpen; also scoring Shohei Ohtani
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 4th as Kurt Suzuki Smashed a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Matt Chapman doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• Tucker Davidson pitching line: 4IP 3H 1R (earned) 5BB 5K 84 pitches (43 for strikes)
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 6IP 7H 3R (all earned) 0BB 6K 77 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 7th as Mike Trout doubled scoring David Fletcher 
• A batter later, Ohtani smacked an opposite field 2-run blast to left; also scoring Trout 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. tripled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Angels added  a run in the top of the 8th as Magneuris Sierra scored on a fielding error by Guerrero Jr. on a ball hit by Suzuki
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 9th as Trout hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer hooked a solo blast just fair in left
• Final score: Angels 8 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Ross Stripling threw 6 innings, giving up three runs on seven hits while walking none and striking out six. The long ball hurt him with Luis Rengifo and Kurt Suzuki going yard for three runs. While the Blue Jays got one of thosse runs back, he was still down two by the time he left the game. He retired the final eight batters he faced
• The bullpen had a rough day, giving up five runs on six hits and a Vlad fielding error while walking a pair and striking out four. The irony of it all is the most unreliable pitcher on the Blue Jays, Yusei Kikuchi, was the most effective on this day. Kikuchi struck out the only batter he faced. David Phelps gave up a run on two hits and two walks, Adam Cimber gave up a pair on 2 hits, Tim Mayza gave up a 2-run shot to left-handed batter Ohtani (one of the runs was charged to Cimber). All told, it put the game out of reach
• The Blue Jays had plenty of base runners today with the Angels pitchers being effectively wild. The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• Every Blue Jays starter except Whit Merrifield reached base at least once and all but Merrifield, Alejandro Kirk and Vlad had at least one hit 
• As far as the Wild card race goes, the Rays and Mariners won and the Orioles lost, meaning the Blue Jays are in the 3rd WC spot a game back of the Mariners and a game and a half back of the Rays. The Orioles remain a game and a half back of the Blue Jays for the final WC spot 
• Up next, the Blue Jays begin a three game set against the Cubs. The Blue Jays were swept by the Cubs last time these two teams met in 2017 with the Cubs outscoring the Blue Jays 17-12. Jose Berrios starts against Cubs righty Javier Assad 

Game #126 Los Angeles Angels (54-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-57)

 

Game #125- LA Angels (54-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-57) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw seven strong innings in a 2-0 shutout loss to the Angels

After losing a clunker 12-0 last night, the Blue Jays were hoping ace Alek Manoah could outduel Angels ace Shohei Ohtani to even the series. The Blue Jays were paying homage to the 1992 world series team that won the Blue Jays first WS championship 30 years ago. They replicated the final out of that game for the first pitch with Mike Timlin throwing from the first base line to Joe Carter at 1B. George Springer returned to the field after missing a couple of weeks with that sore elbow and knee. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Jackie Bradley Jr. was in RF with Teo out with a foot contusion. Raimel Tapis got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays even the weekend series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Jackie Bradley Jr. made an outstanding play for the 1st out of the 4th inning, gunning down Ryan Aguilar at 3B, who was trying to stretch a double into a triple
• The Angels opened the scoring in the top of the 6th as Luis Rengifo singled scoring David Fletcher 
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 8K 109 pitches (72 for strikes)
• Shohei Ohtani pitching line: 7IP 2H 0R 1BB 9K 105 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Andrew Velazquez smacked a solo blast to right
• Jimmy Herget pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Angels 2 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• The pitching duel between Shohei Ohtani and Alek Manoah emerged. Both pitchers put up 0's through the first 5 innings. Manoah gave up an RBI single in the 6th and that was the difference in the game. Bo Bichette flubbed the first ball hit to him for an error to start the game, putting Manoah into the stretch position right away. At one point, Manoah retired 8 in a row, thanks to Jackie Bradley Jr.'s great play to start the 5th inning.
• Anthony Bass gave up a solo shot in the 9th that put the game out of reach.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays best chance to score came in the 1st inning when they had runners on 1st and second with 2 outs. Unfortunately, Cavan Biggio lined out to Mike Trout to end the threat 
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the WC race, the Rays lost, the Orioles and Astros were scoreless in the 3rd inning (at the time this recap was published) and the Mariners and Indians were playing 2 hours later 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to avoid being swept for the 3rd time this season and try to snap the 2 game skid. Ross Stripling starts against Angels lefty Tucker Davidson 

Game #125 Los Angeles Angels (53-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-56)

 

Game #124- LA Angels (53-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-56) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk had a hit and drew a pair of walks in a 12-0 shutout loss to the Angels

After sweeping the Red Sox with an extra inning win with George Springer driving in the winning run for the second straight day, the Blue Jays returned home for a  six game home stand starting tonight against the Angels. The  Blue Jays swept the Angels for their first series sweep May 26-29, outscoring the Angels 27-21 in that series. Mitch White got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Whit Merrifield was in CF and George Springer was DH for the 4th straight day. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as David Fletcher doubled scoring Jo Adell and Ryan Aguilar 
• Two batters later, Shohei Ohtani tripled scoring Andrew Velazquez and Fletcher 
• A batter later, Luisa Rengifo singled home Ohtani
• Teoscar Hernandez left the game in the top of the 3rd after fouling a ball off his foot in his only AB in the 1st inning. He stayed in the game for the 2nd inning defensively, but could not continue after that 
• The Angels added a pair of runs in the  top of the 3rd as as Valazquez whacked a 2-run jack to right-center and into the Angels bullpen; also scoring Aguilar
• Mitch White pitching line: 5IP 8H 7R (all earned) 3BB 5K 91 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Reid Detmers pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 0R 3BB 5K 105 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 7th as Adell belted a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Angels added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Mike Trout smacked an opposite-field shot to right and into the Angels bullpen; also scoring Fletcher. This run was historic for Trout and the Angels with Trout now having scored the most all-time runs by an Angels player.
• The Angels added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Adell drilled a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Matt Thaiss
• Final score: Angels 12 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Mitch White had a rough night, getting lit up for 7 runs on 8 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. The 2nd inning was an especially bad one for White, who gave up 5 runs on 5 hits and a walk., capped off by a 2-run triple that Teo misplayed. Hernandez was removed from the game to start the next inning. It's too bad really because White did a decent job his first 2 games, Hopefully he can rebound from a bad start better than a certain Japanese lefty.
• Yusei Kikuchi had another subpar performance, giving up a pair of home runs for three runs. He walked the first batter he faced on 4 pitches. He did retire the next five batters, striking out four of those batters and three in a row,  before giving up the solo bomb. No doubt the 2022 season can't end fast enough for Kikuchi
• Two challenges both went against the Blue Jays. In the bottom of the 1st Vlad was called out on a steal attempt after an initial safe call. To start the 2nd inniing, the safe call was upheld.
• The defense certainly did the pitchers no favors tonight. Teo missed a catchable ball in the 2nd that went for an Ohtani 2-run triple. Vlad made a throwing error that should have resulted in at least one out in the 1st. Vlad also misplayed a bunt in the 2nd inning. Perhaps it was travelling and arriving home late
• The Blue Jays did nothing with 2 bases loaded opportunities and a situation with runners on 2nd and 3rd. They were 0-8 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Rays lost, Orioles won and the Mariners were losing to the Indians. Worse case scenario, Seattle passes the Blue Jays and the Blue Jays fall to the 3rd WC spot
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even this weekend series. Alek Manoah starts against Angels righty Shohei Ohtani

Game #124 Los Angeles Angels (52-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-55)

 

Game #123- Toronto Blue Jays (68-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-65) - game recap

 

Jordan Romano threw 2 scoreless innings in a 6-5 extra innings win over the Red Sox. George Springer drove in the winning run for the second day in a row

After a thrilling come-from-behind win over the Red Sox in extra innings, the Blue Jays were looking for their 3rd straight win and 4th series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Raimel Tapia was in CF and Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 4th series sweep and second straight series sweep over the Red Sox? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Bo Bichette doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Teoscar Hernandez
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Reese McGuire singled scoring Xander Bogaerts 
• A batter later, Bobby Dalbec singled home Christian Arroyo
• The Red Sox took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Rafael Devers doubled scoring Tommy Pham
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Santiago Espinal and Danny Jansen
• The Red Sox tied the game in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Dalbec that scored Rob Refsnyder
• Kutter Crawford pitching line: 4.2IP 10H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 85 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 9H 4H (all earned) 0BB 6K 88 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 6th as Danny Jansen smashed a solo blast over the green monster in left
• The Red Sox tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Jarren Duran doubled scoring Dalbec
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th on a fielder's choice hit by George Springer that scored Biggio
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Red Sox 5

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits while walking none and striking out 6. Gausman had a perfect 1st inning, but the 2nd inning not so much with five of the first four batters reaching base and two runs in. The theme of the day seemed to be getting outs to start an inning. In all but the 1st and 5th innings, the first two Red Sox batters reached base, Gausman was able to adjust to limit the damage to a run or two per inning, but not a quality start for the Blue Jays righty.
• The bullpen gave up an unearned run (thanks to a throwing error by Bo Bichette) on 6 hits and 2 walks while striking out 8 over the final 5 innings. Jordan Romano had to esacpe a bases loaded jam with none out after loading the bases on a pair of hits and an intentional walk. He got a key strikeout and an inning-ending double play. Romano had a much easier time in the 10th with the ghost runner on 2nd not even advancing to 3rd base.
• The Offence gave Blue Jays pitchers four separate leads and the last one stuck. Bo and Vlad had separate 2-run hits, Danny Jansen had a solo shot over the green monster and Cavan Biggio scored the last and winning run on a brilliant slide. Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit except Raimel Tapia 
• Three different Blue Jays played CF. Only one (Tapia) made a defensive play.
• The Blue Jays were a bad 2-12 with runners in scoring position. The Red Sox were even worse, going 3-20 with runners in scoring position, including the bases loaded chance in the 9th inning with none out 
• Up next, the Blue Jays head home to face the LA Angels in a weekend set. The Blue Jays swept the Angels in their four game series in Anaheim back on May 26-29, with the Blue Jays outscoring the Angels 27-21 in that series. The pitching matchup tomorrow features Mitch White pitching against Angels lefty Reid Detmers.  

Game #123 Toronto Blue Jays (67-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-64)

 

Game #122- Toronto Blue Jays (67-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-64) - game recap

George Springer scored a run and drove in a run in a 3-2 come-from-behind victory over the Red Sox in 10 innings

After a solid win due to an 8 run 3rd inning, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and their 18th series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Springer was in the lineup for the second straight day - a rarity lately as he battles some owies. Whit Merrifield was at second base. Jackie Bradley Jr. was in CF Could the Blue Jays make it 3 straight wins and 18 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Franchy Cordero hsmmrrered a solo bomb over the green monster in left; also scoring Enrique Hernandez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring George Springer 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Whit Merrifield
• Brayan Bello pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 7K 65 pitches (46 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 6K 87 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th as Springer doubled home Jackie Bradley Jr.
• Jordan Romano threw a scoreless 9th for his 27th save of the season. 
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Red Sox 2 (10 innings)

My Take:

• The good Jose Berrios was pitching today. The embattled righty, who has had a few clunkers this season, including not being able to get out of the 1st inning on opening day, gave up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking one and striking out 6. The two starters basilly mirrored each others pitching line. Berrios allowed one less hit, struck out 1 less batter and had a slightly worse ball-strike differential (Berrios threw 31 more strikes than balls. Red Sox starter Brayan Bello threw 19 more strikes than balls). Berrios will almost certainly start a wild card game, but perhaps not the first game given his inconsistency start-to-start.
• The bullpen held the Red Sox to 4 hits and 3 walka (2 intentional) while srriking out 4 over the final 4 innings. Tim Mayza had his first appearance since he came off the IL yesterday. He allowed 2 hits in 1/3 inning. Mayza was extremely fortunate it was his non-throwing shoulder he dislocated back on August 6th when trying to make a play at the plate, otherwise he almost certainly would have missed much more time. Adam Cimber was credited with his 10th win of the season, putting him 8 wins back of the MLB record for wins by a reliever, currently held by Roy Face of the Pirates, who notched 18 wins in 1959. Jordan Romano notched his 27th save of the season. Hopefully John Schneider doesn't ask him to pitch multiple innings too often
• George Springer had a big day, scoring the Blue Jays 1st run and driving in the 3rd and winning run in the 10th inning. Springer is certainly one of the better players in the league when less than full health. One has to wonder how good he'd be fully healthy. MVP is a distinct possiility 
• It muat have felt good scoring the winning run against a former team. That's what Jackie Bradley did tonight. He was the ghost runner on second in the 10th inning after he made the final out in the 9th inning.
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the season series at Fenway park (they'll face the Red Sox three more times October 1-3 in Toronto). Tomorrow night, the Blue Jays will be looking for their 3rd straight win and their 4th series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Red Sox righty Kutter Crawford

Game #122 Toronto Blue Jays (66-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-63)

 

Game #121- Toronto Blue Jays (66-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-63) - game recap

 

Jackie Bradley Jr. was 2-3 with 2 runs scored and an RBI in his return to Fenway park. His new team, the Blue Jays, prevailed 9-3 over his former Red Sox team

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win in Boston. The Blue Jays have won 10 of the 13 games in the season series so far and have outscored the Red Sox 82-42. Tim Mayza was activated from the 10 day IL. Zack Pop was optioned back to AAA-ball. Ross Stripling got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH after missing the last 2 games after he fouled a ball off his kneecap. Teo was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday after HE fouled a ball off his foot. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Enrique Hernandez singled scoring Christian Arroyo
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 3rd as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. doubled scoring Jackie Bradley Jr.
• Two batters later, Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Gurriel Jr.
• Two batters later, Alejandro Kirk was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Matt Chapman
• A batter later, Cavan Biggio singled scoring Hernandez and Bo Bichette 
• Two batters later, George Springer tripled home Chapman, Bradley Jr. and Biggio
• Josh Winckowski pitching line: 2.2IP 6H 6R (all earned) 2BB 2K 61 pitches (34 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Bradley Jr. singled scoring Bichette 
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 86 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Franchy Cordero scored on a fielder's choce hit by Alex Verdugo. There was a throwing error by Biggo on the play that made the run unearned
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Rafael Devers singled scoring Kevin Plawecki
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Red Sox 3

My Take:

• Ross Stripling had another sharp outing, allowing a run on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. Stripling threw as many strikes as Red Sox starter Josh Wickowski threw pitches (61). Both starters allowed 6 hits, but the Blue Jays scored eight times in that inning, whereas the Red Sox managed just one run off Chicken Strip. He retired the last seven batters he faced
• Yusei Yikes! The Blue Blue Jays lefty, banished to the bullpen after another dreadful start last week, Kikuchi was a disaster in a low-leverage appearance in the 7th inning today. He walked three batters, hit Alex Verdugo and was lucky the run charged against him was unearned due to a bad throw by Cavan Biggio. At this point, there's no way Kikuchi would be on a playoff roster. 
• The bats exploded in the 3rd inning, lighting up Red Sox righty Josh Wickowski and reliever Austin Davis, scoring 8 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks, capped off by a 3-run triple by George Springer
• Jackie Bradley Jr. torched his former team, going 2-3, drawing a walk, driving in a run and scoring twice. The two runs scored both came in the 3rd inning.
• Reese McGuire pitched a perfect 9 against his former teammates. He lined out to left to end the game
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Alejandro Kirk had at least one hit.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their second straight win. Jose Berrios starts against Red Sox righty Brayan Bello

Game #121 Toronto Blue Jays (65-55) @ Boston Red Sox (60-62)

 

Game #120- Toronto Blue Jays (65-55) @ New York Yankees (74-48) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw 6 strong innings in a 4-2 loss to the Yankees. Manoah got a no-decision.

After winning off a strong effort from the bullpen and a 4 run 5th inning yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for their 5th straight win and 5th straight series sweep. Before the game, Paul O'Neill's #21 was retired by the Yankees. He became the 23rd Yankee to have their numbers retired. George Springer missed his third straight game with a sore knee and elbow. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Teo got the half day off as DH after fouling a ball off his foot yesterday. Whit Merrifield took his spot in RF. Jackie Bradley Jr. got the start in CF. Could the blue Jays win their 5th straight and complete the 5th sweep? Here is today's game recap.

Game #120 Toronto Blue Jays (65-54) @ New York Yankees (73-48)

 

Game #119- Toronto Blue Jays (65-54) @ New York Yankees (73-48) - game recap

 

Jackie Bradley Jr. drove in a pair of runs and scored a run in a 5-2 come-from-behind win over the Yankees

After a strong win on the back of 7 strong innings from Kevin Gausman and a 2-run bomb from Teo, the Blue Jays were looking for their 4th straight win, 3rd straight over the Yankees and their 17th  series win of the season. Mitch White got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer missed his second straight game after fouling a ball off his kneecap Thursday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the complete day off with Raimel Tapia in LF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B after yesterday off. Jackie Bradley Jr. got the start in CF. Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins and 17th series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #119 Toronto Blue Jays (64-54) @ New York Yankees (73-47)

 

Game #118- Toronto Blue Jays (64-54) @ New York Yankees (73-47) - game recap

  

Kevin Gausman threw seven shutout innings in a 4-0 shutout win over the Yankees

After a strong win yesterday on strong nights from four of the all-stars, including George Springer, who was 5-5, the Blue Jays were looking for their 3rd straight win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was out after taking a foul ball off his knee. Cavan Biggio was at 2B and Alejandro Kirk served as DH.  Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #118 Toronto Blue Jays (63-54) @ New York Yankees (73-46)

 

Game #117- Toronto Blue Jays (63-54) @ New York Yankees (73-46) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored three times and drove in 3 runs in a 9-2 rout over the Yankees

After a win over the Orioles, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week long road trip, starting with a 4-game set that opened tonight in NY against the division-leading Bronx Bombers. The Yankees have won 8 of the 12 meetings in the season Phillies. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH.  Whit Merrifield was in CF. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #117 Toronto Blue Jays (62-54) @ New York Yankees (73-45)

 

Game #116- Baltimore Orioles (61-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (62-54) - game recap

 

Ross Stripling threw 6.1 shutout innings in a 6-1 victory over the Orioles.

After another heartbreaking loss yesterday after some horrible defensive miscues, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid being swept for the 4th time this season and snap losing streaks of 5 straight vs. the Orioles and 3 straight overall. Ross Stripling was activated off the 10-day IL and made the start. Trent Thornton was optioned back to AAA-ball. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. George Springer was off completely today so Alejandro Kirk served as DH today. Raimel Tapia was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the losing streaks mentioned above, avoid being swept and end the home stand on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game #116 Baltimore Orioles (61-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-54)

 

Game #115- Baltimore Orioles (61-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-54) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run HR in a 4-2 come-from-behind loss to the Orioles

After dropping the opener of this series thanks to another clunker of a start from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to snap a two game skid overall and a three game skid vs. the Orioles, who are on the verge of overtaking the Blue Jays. Alek Manoah got the start 7H 2R with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Jackie Bradley Jr. got the start in CF as George Springer continues to build up to playing in the field. The lineup was shaken up with Bo Bichette batting 7th, Teo cleanup and Matt Chapman 5th in the order. Could the Blue Jays snap both losing streaks? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #115 Baltimore Orioles (60-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-53)

 

Game #114- Baltimore Orioles (60-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-53) - game recap

 

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. drove in a pair of runs in a 7-3 loss to the Orioles

After a rough loss yesterday,  the Blue Jays began a series against the Orioles, who swept the Blue Jays a week ago. The Orioles have won 4 of 6 games in the season series thus far and have outscored the Blue Jays 36-34. Yusei Kikuchi was looking to exact some sweet revenge after getting knocked around for 5 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. The start was even more important for Kikuchi since Ross Stripling should be ready to return this week and Mitch White has held his own in 2 starts for the Blue Jays. George Springer was activated from the 10-day IL and served as DH for tonight's game. Bradley Zimmer was DFA'd to create a roster spot. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. Teo was back in RF after DH'ing yesterday. Bo Bichette was back at SS after the full day off yesterday. Raimel Tapia was in CF and Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the two-game skid against the Orioles and one-game skid overall? Here is today's game recap.

Game #114 Baltimore Orioles (59-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-52)

 

Game #113- Cleveland Guardians (61-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-52) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in a run in a 7-2 loss to the Guardians

After eking out a win on a fine performance from the bullpen and a pair of solo home runs to fuel the offence, the Blue Jays were going for 2 straight wins over the Guardians, a potential WC opponent. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the full day off with Santiago Espinal at SS and Whit Merrifield at 2B. Teo got the half day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Raimel Tapia was in CF. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game #113 Cleveland Indians (60-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-51)

 

Game #112- Cleveland Guardians (60-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (61-51) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez hit a solo HR that held up as the game winning run in a 2-1 come-from-behind win over the Guardians

After an ugly shutout loss to the Guardians last night where the only highlight was Vlad extending his hitting streak to 21 games, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3 game skid. They were also looking to extend their record to 19-22 on yours truly's birthday (August 13th). Mitch White got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday, Raimel Tapia got the start in CF and Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3 game skid? Here is today's game recap.

Game #112 Cleveland Indians (60-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (60-51)

 

Game #111- Cleveland Guardians (60-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (60-51) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extended his hiting streak to 21 games in an 8-0 shutout loss to the Guardians

After a rainout Wednesday and an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a six game home stand with  three games against the Guardians. The Guardians took 3 of 4 from the Blue Jays May 5-8 and outscored the Blue Jays in that series 21-18. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Jackie Bradley Jr. made his Blue Jays debut in CF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #111 Cleveland Indians (59-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (60-50)

 

Game #111 Toronto Blue Jays (60-50) @ Baltimore Orioles (58-52)

 

Game #110- Toronto Blue Jays (60-50) @ Baltimore Orioles (58-52) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in 4 runs and scored twice in a 6-5 come-from-behind-loss to the Orioles

After dropping the first game of this series last night on another subpar performance from Yusei Kikuchi, who may be running out of chances with increasing calls from the fanbase to remove him from the rotation. The Blue Jays signed  Jackie Bradley Jr. to a 1-year deal and opened up space on the active roster by optioning Otto Lopez back to AAA-ball. Matt Peacock was also DFA'd. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the field after the day off yesterday. Teo had the day off today with Raimel Tapia in RF. Santiago Espinal was back at 2B after the day off yesterday. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #110 Toronto Blue Jays (60-49) @ Baltimore Orioles (57-52)

 

Game #109- Toronto Blue Jays (60-49) @ Baltimore Orioles (57-52) - game recap

 

Matt Chapman scored twice and drove in a run on a solo HR in a 7-4 loss to the Orioles

After a clutch extra-innings win over the Twins yesterday, the Blue Jays  begin a 3-game set tonight in Baltimore. The Blue Jays and Orioles have split the four games in the season series with the Blue Jays outscoring the Orioles 25-23. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Whit Merrifield was in CF and Raimel Tapia was in LF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #109 Toronto Blue Jays (60-48) @ Baltimore Orioles (56-52)

 

Game #108- Toronto Blue Jays (60-48) @ Minnesota Twins (57-51) - game recap

Cavan Biggio drove in a run and scored a run in a 3-2 extra innings win over the Twins. Vladimir Guerrero extended his hitting streak to 18 games with a 6th inning single.

After a costly loss to the Twins where Tim Mayza dislocated his right (thankfully non-throwing) shoulder diving to make a play on a sac bunt, the Blue Jays were looking to split the 4-game series and remain .500 on the road trip. Mayza was placed on the 15-day IL, but will likely be out longer than that. Trent Thornton was recalled in his place, leaving the Blue Jays with no lefties in their bullpen after Anthony Banda cleared waivers and elected free agency. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Raimel Tapia got the start in CF. Could the Blue Jays earn the series split? Here is today's game recap.

Game #108 Toronto Blue Jays (59-48) @ Minnesota Twins (57-50)

 

Game #107- Toronto Blue Jays (59-48) @ Minnesota Twins (57-50) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in all three runs for the Blue Jays in a 7-3 loss to the Twins

After dropping yesterday's game in extra innings, the Blue Jays were looking to take the lead in the series. Mitch White was recalled from the AAA-ball to make his Blue Jays debut. Trent Thornton was optioned to AAA-ball. George Springer was placed on the 10-day IL, retroactive to August 5, with right elbow inflammation. Infielder Joel Otto was recalled to take his spot on the roster. Danny Jansen was behind the plate, Cavan Biggio was at 2B and Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays take the lead in the series and set up a rubber match for the season series win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #107 Toronto Blue Jays (59-47) @ Minnesota Twins (56-50)

 

Game #106- Toronto Blue Jays (59-47) @ Minnesota Twins (56-50) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extended his hitting streak to 16 games wiith a 2-run HR in a 6-5 extra innings loss to the Twins

After a huge win after scoring 9 runs over the final half of the game, the Blue Jays were looking for their second straight win over the Twins and overall. Ace Jose Berrios faced his former team for the first time since his trade deadline acquisition from the Twins a year ago and was looking for his 3rd win over his former team. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. George Springer was out of the lineup for the 4th time in 5 games with an elbow injury. One wonders if he's going to be heading for an IL stint soon. Merrifield was in CF for the second straight game and batted leadoff today. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the half day off as DH with Raimel Tapia in LF. Santiago Espinal was back at 2B after the day off yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #106 Toronto Blue Jays (59-46) @ Minnesota Twins (55-50)