Game #157- Boston Red Sox (75-82) @ Toronto Blue Jays (88-69) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi notched his first career save in a 9-0 shutout win over the Red Sox

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened the final home stand of the regular season against the Red Sox tonight. The Blue Jays have won 13 of the 16 games in the season series against the Red Sox, outscoring Boston 100-52. They  have swept the last 2 series against the Red Sox for 6 straight wins over their AL East rivals. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday. Danny Jansen served as DH tonight. Could the Blue Jays start the final regular season homestand with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #157 Boston Red Sox (75-81) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-69)

 

Game #156- New York Yankees (96-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-69) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a solo HR in an 8-3 loss to the Yankees. Aaron Judge tied the AL single season and Yankees franchise single season record for HR with his 61st HR of the season.

After dropping yesterday's game to let the Yankees clinch the AL East title on enemy territory, the Blue Jays were looking to potentially clinch a playoff spot with a win and an Orioles loss. The Blue Jays were also looking for their 25th series win of the season. Mitch White got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. George Springer got the half day off as DH tonight with Jackie Bradley Jr. in CF. Could the Blue Jays clinch a playoff spot and notch their 25th series win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #156 New York Yankees (95-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-68)

 

Game #155- New York Yankees (95-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-68) - game recap

 

George Springer scored both Blue Jays runs in a 5-2 come-from behind loss to the Yankees. With the win the Yankees clinched the AL East title 

After an extra innings win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and get their 25th series win of the season. Aaron Judge, who did not hit a HR yesterday, was looking to tie Roger Maris for the Yankees single season franchise record for HR. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1st base. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 25th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #155 New York Yankees (94-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-67)

 

Game #154- New York Yankees (94-59) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-67) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in the winning run in a 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Yankees in 10 innings

After a convincing win over the Rays yesterday, The Blue Jays opened the final homestand of the regular season, starting with a three-game set against the Yankees, who have won 9 of the 16 meetings in the season series thus far, and have outscored the Blue Jays 68-55. History could be made as Aaron Judge attempts to set the single season Yankees record for HR. He did not homer yesterday in Boston, so he'll be looking to tie and/or set the Yankees single season record for HR (currently Roger Maris, who hit 61HR in 1961). Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #154 New York Yankees (94-58) @ Toronto Blue Jays (86-67)

 

Game #153- Toronto Blue Jays (86-67) @ Tampa Bay Rays (84-69) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a pair of HR and drove in 3 runs in a 7-1 win over the Rays =

After a win on the back of a three run shot by Whit Merrifield 3-run HR and arguably the best pitching performance of Alek Manoah's career, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins over the Rays and escape Tropicana with a split. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Alejandro Kirk served as DH today. Could the Blue Jays end the road trip with a 2-game streak and build a commanding 2 game lead over the Rays for home field advantage in the WC series, which is the likely matchup at this point? Here is today's game recap.

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (85-67) @ Tampa Bay Rays (84-68)

 

Game #152- Toronto Blue Jays (85-67) @ Tampa Bay Rays (84-68) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw 7 shutout innings in a 3-1 win over the Rays 

After dropping their 2nd straight game against the Rays and 3rd straight overall thanks to the bullpen blowing the game, the Blue Jays were looking to get back on track and solidify their playoff odds. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr. was in CF. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #152 Toronto Blue Jays (84-67) @ Tampa Bay Rays (84-67)

 

Game #151- Toronto Blue Jays (84-67) @ Tampa Bay Rays (84-67) - game recap

 

Raimel Tapia scored a pair of runs and drove in a run in a 10-6 loss to the Rays

After dropping yesterday's game vs. the Rays after a bad game from Jose Berrios, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid. Mitch White was recalled from AAA-ball and made the start. Foster Griffin was optioned back to AAA-ball. Whit Merrifield was at 2B and Raimel Tapia was in LF. Otherwise the lineup was the same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #151 Toronto Blue Jays (84-66) @ Tampa Bay Rays (83-67)

 

Game #150- Toronto Blue Jays (84-66) @ Tampa Bay Rays (83-67) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield hit a pair of home runs and drove in three runs in a 10-5 loss to the Rays 

After dropping yesterday's game against the Phillies in extra innings, the Blue Jays continued the road trip, opening a four-game set against the Rays tonight. The Rays have won 8 of 15 meetings in the season series and have outscored the Blue Jays 60-52. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Teo was back in the field after DH'ing. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #150 Toronto Blue Jays (84-65) @ Tampa Bay Rays (82-67)

 

Game #149 Toronto Blue Jays (84-64) @ Philadelphia Phillies (80-67)

 

Game #148 Toronto Blue Jays (83-64) @ Philadelphia Phillies (80-66)

 

Game #147- Baltimore Orioles (76-69) @ Toronto Blue Jays (83-64) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in a run in a 5-4 come-from behind loss to the Orioles

After a second straight 6-3 win over the Orioles highlighted by what manager John Schneider termed a gutsy 6-inning effort by Jose Berrios and a bases clearing double from unlikely hero Raimel Tapia, the Blue Jays were looking for their 6th series sweep of the season and 3rd straight win overall. Alek Manoah got the start. Danny Jansen was his battery mate with Alejandro Kirk nursing a sore hip. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. George Springer got the half day off with Raimel Tapia in CF. Whit Merrifield was in LF. Could the Blue Jays complete their 6th series sweep, extend the win streak to 3 games and end the home stand on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game #147 Baltimore Orioles (75-69) @ Toronto Blue Jays (83-63)

 

Game #146- Baltimore Orioles (75-69) @ Toronto Blue Jays (83-63) - game recap

 

Raimel Tapia hit a 3-run double in a 6-3 win over the Orioles

After a huge win over the Orioles on the back of a solid effort from the bullpen and George Springer and Matt Chapman, who both knocked in three runs, the Blue Jays were going for their 6th straight series win, 22nd series win of the season and 2nd straight win overall. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Teo was back in RF after the half day off as DH yesterday. Vlad got the half day off as DH today with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays notch their2nd straight win, 6th straight series win and 22nd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #146 Baltimore Orioles (75-68) @ Toronto Blue Jays (82-63)

 

Game #145- Baltimore Orioles (75-68) @ Toronto Blue Jays (82-63) - game recap

George Springer hit a 3-run HR in a 6-3 win over the Orioles

After dropping the final game of the rare 5 game series vs. the Rays, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win over the Orioles. It was a bullpen day with Trevor Richards getting the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Teo got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr in RF. Raimel Tapia was in LF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #145 Baltimore Orioles (75-67) @ Toronto Blue Jays (81-63)

 

Game #144- Tampa Bay Rays (80-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (81-63) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette had a pair of hits in an 11-0 shutout loss to the Rays.

After beating the Rays yesterday in a game where Vlad became the youngest Blue Jay to hit 100 career HR, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to three games ahead of a crucial weekend series against the Orioles. Kevin Gausman got the start with Gabriel Moreno behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr. in CF. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Teo was back in RF after the full day off yesterday. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is today's game recap.

Game #144 Tampa Bay Rays (79-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (81-62)

 

Game #143- Tampa Bay Rays (79-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (81-62) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his 100th career HR in a 5-1 win over the Rays. Guerrero Jr. is the youngest player in Blue Jays franchise history to reach the 100 career HR mark.

After splitting yesterday's double header on the back of a gutsy performance from Alek Manoah, who had a solid start despite dealing with a stomach flu, the Blue Jays were going for 2 straight wins and their 21st series win of the season. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing the second game of yesterday's double header. Vlad got the half day off as DH tonight with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Raimel Tapia was in LF and Jackie Bradley Jr. was in RF. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins over the Rays? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #143 Tampa Bay Rays (79-62) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-62)

 

Games 141 and 142 - Tampa Bay Rays (79-62) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-62) - Records will reflect what they were after the 2nd game of today's double header

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a run in the 1st game and had an RBI and run scored in the 2nd game as the Blue Jays split today's double header, losing the 1st game 4-2 and winning the nightcap 7-2

After a late inning win yesterday, it was double header day for the Blue Jays. Mitch White was recalled as the 29th man for the double header. Julian Merryweather started the 1st game after Alek Manoah came down with a stomach bug. Manoah was well enough to start the second game. Danny Jansen was behind the plate for the 1st game and Alejandro Kirk, who served as DH in the 1st game, caught the second game. Teo was in LF the 1st game and RF the 2nd game (Raimel Tapia started the second game in LF and Whit Merrifield started the 1st game in RF. George Springer was in the field for the 1st game and DH'd in the 2nd game (Jackie Bradley Jr. started the 2nd game in CF). Santiago Espinal started the 1st game at 2B and Cavan Biggio started the 2nd game at 2B. Could the Blue Jays sweep the double header and extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is today's game recap(s).

Game #141 & #142 Tampa Bay Rays (78-61) @ Toronto Blue Jays (79-61)

 

Game #140- Tampa Bay Rays (78-61) @ Toronto Blue Jays (79-61) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in all three runs and scored one of those runs on his game-winning HR in a 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Rays 

After dropping the last day of the series against the rangers yesterday, the Blue Jays open a HUGE home stand against the Rays, who have won 6 of the 10 meetings in the season series so far and have outscored the Blue Jays 40-35. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Teo was in RF after playing LF yesterday. Raimel Tapia got the start in LF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Jonathan Aranda singled scoring David Peralta 
• The Blue Jays tied the game as Bo Bichette singled home George Springer 
• Cooper Criswell pitching line: 3.1IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 45 pitches (32 for strikes)
• The Rays took the lead in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Manuel Margot that scored Randy Arozarena
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6.1IP 6H 2R (1 earned) 1BB 4K 92 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Bichette whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Raimel Tapia
• Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 33rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Rays 2 

My Take:

• Jose Berrios the good was pitching today. The inconsistent righty gave up a pair of runs (1 earned) on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over 6.1 innings. He retired 7 in a row at one point
• The bullpen pitched 2.2 perfect innings. Tim Mayza was credited with the win and Jordan Romano notched his 33rd save of the season. Tomorrow, it'll be all hands on deck with a double header.
• It was the Bo show again. The AL player of the week, Bichette drove in all three runs and scored one of those runs himself on a clutch 2-run jack in the 8th. Vlad was the only other Blue Jay to reach base more than once.
• The Mariners and Orioles were both idle today. The Blue Jays are in the 2nd WC spot, 5 games up on the Orioles, a half game up on the Rays and tied with the Mariners for the top WC spot.
• Up next, the last home double header of the season. Alek Monah starts the 1st game against Rays lefty Jeffrey Springs. Neither team has announced their starters for the 2nd game.

Game #140 Tampa Bay Rays (78-60) @ Toronto Blue Jays (78-61)

 

Game #139- Toronto Blue Jays (78-61) @ Texas Rangers (60-79) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 4-1 loss to the Rangers

After outslugging the Rangers yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking for their 6th series sweep of the year and 4th straight win ahead of a HUGE homestand with 5 in 4 games against the Rays, including a double header Tuesday to make up the postponed series due to the lockout and three next weekend against the Orioles - two teams the Blue Jays are battling for a WC spot. But first, they would no doubt like to wrap up the road trip on a winning note against ex-teammate Marcus Semien. Teoscar Hernandez returned from the paternity list and got the start in LF. Otto Lopez was optioned back to AAA-ball. It was a bullpen day today with Trevor Richards getting the start and Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr. in CF. Whit Merrifield got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins and 6 series sweeps? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Nathaniel Lowe doubled scoring Corey Seagar
• Trevor Richards pitching line: 0.1IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 1K 26 pitches (15 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Adolis Garcia hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Lowe 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Teoscar Hernandez doubled home Bo Bichette 
• Martin Perez pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 97 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Leody Taveras bashed a solo jack to right 
• Jose Leclerc pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season

My Take:

• Trevor Richards had a rough outing as an opener. He got through two innings in Pittsburgh as an opener. Today, he managed just one out, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking one and striking out one. He'll almost certainly next pitch Tuesday in the double header 
• The rest of the bullpen had mixed results. Yusei Kikucki and Anthony Bass were both taken yard for 3 runs combined. David Phelps and Zack Pop both threw 1.1 innings and struck out a batter each. Julian Merryweather gave up a hit over two innings and struck out a batter. All in all, could have been worse, could have been better 
• Teo came off the paternity list and drove in the only Blue Jays run
• Bo Bichette scored that lone run and had a hit in 4AB
• In terms of the WC race, The Orioles and Rays both lost and the Mariners were winning. The Blue Jays are in a good position heading into this week. They are in the 3rd WC spot and now have a solid 5.5 game lead on the Orioles and are 0.5 games back of the Mariners and Rays for the 1st WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a HUGE home stand against the Rays, who have won 6 of the 10 meetings in the season series so far and have outscored the Blue Jays 40-35. Jose Berrios starts Monday for the Blue Jays. The Rays have not set their rotation for the serie3s yet.

Game #139 Toronto Blue Jays (78-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-79)

 

Game #138- Toronto Blue Jays (78-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-79) - game recap

 

Santiago Espinal drove in three runs and scored another in an 11-7 win over the Rangers

After winning yesterday on a late clutch hit from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were going for season series win #10,  series win #21 and their 3rd straight win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Same lineup as yesterday except Cavan Biggio got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 21st series win, 10th season series win and 3rd straight win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #138 Toronto Blue Jays (77-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-78)

 

Game #137- Toronto Blue Jays (77-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-78) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen drove in the winning run in the top of the 9th as the Blue Jays edged the Rangers 4-3

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a series against the Rangers. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 in the season-opening series back in Toronto. The Rangers actually outscored the Blue Jays 23-20 in that series. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was placed on the 10-day IL with a left hamstring strain. Otto Lopez was recalled  to take his roster spot. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate.. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday. Raimel Tapia was in LF and Jackie Bradley Jr. was in RF. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #137 Toronto Blue Jays (76-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-77)

 

Game #136- Toronto Blue Jays (76-60) @ Baltimore Orioles (72-65) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah pitched 8 stellar innings in a 4-1 come-from-behind win over the Orioles

After dropping yesterday's game in a fiesty 9-6 loss, the Blue Jays were looking for their 20 series win of the season and to restore the 4.5 game cushion over the Orioles for the final WC spot. Teoscar Hernandez was placed on the paternity list. Mitch White was optioned to AAA-ball. Catcher Gabriel Moreno and righty Zack Pop were recalled. Zack Collins was claimed off waivers by the Pirates. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Raimel Tapia was in RF and Jackie Bradley Jr. was in CF. 

Game #136 Toronto Blue Jays (75-60) @ Baltimore Orioles (72-64)

 

Game #135- Toronto Blue Jays (75-60) @ Baltimore Orioles (72-64) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 4-5 with 4 runs scored and 2 RBI in a 9-6 loss to the Orioles

After sweeping the double header yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking for their 6th straight win and 20th series win of the season. Mitch White got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing in the 2nd game of the double header. Vlad got the half day off tonight as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 6 games and notch their 20th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Matt Chapman singled scoring Alejandro Kirk
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Bo Bichette smashed a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring George Springer. The call was overturned upon review after initially being called a double
• The Orioles got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Adley Rutschman doubled scoring Rougned Odor and Jorge Mateo
• A batter later, Cedric Mullins scored on a ground out by Anthony Santander 
• A batter after that, Ryan Mountcastle singled home Rutschman
• Two batters later, Gunnar Henderson singled home Mountcastle 
• Mitch White pitching line: 2.1IP 3H 5R (all earned) 3BB 2K 63 pitches (36 for strikes)
• Kyle Bradish pitching line: 3IP 6H 3R (all earned) 2BB 3K 66 pitches (42 fpr strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Chapman doubled home Bichette 
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Mullins singled scoring Mateo
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a double play ball hit by Teoscar Hernandez that scored Bichette 
• Blue Jays manager John Schneider was ejected in the bottom of the 7th for arguing balls and strikes.
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Anthony Santander that forced in Odor 
• A batter later, Mountcastle singled home Mullins and Rutschman. The second run was intially called out but was overturned upon review.
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Kirk singled home Bichette 
• Felix Bautista got the final 6 outs for his 12th save of the season
• Final score: Orioles 9 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

• Mitch White had an absolutely disastrous 3rd inning, loading the bases by walking the first two batters and hitting the third batter of the inning. two of the next three batters had RBI hits and the middle of those batters hit into a fielder's choice. White then was mercifully pulled after walking the next and seventh batter of the inning. He actually retired the first four batters he faced. Question is whether White is a better option than Kikuchi as a 5th starter. I say pick your poison.
• The bullpen had mixed results. Tim Mayza, Anthony Bass and Yimi Garcia were all perfeect in their efforts. Yusei Kikuchi gave up a run on 2 hits. Trevor Richards allowed the game to get out of reach, giving up three runs on three hits while walking 2 in 0.2 innings.
• This game had the makings of a playoff game. The Blue Jays dugout was fired up for much of the game, understandably upset at the poor umpiring by Jeff Nelson, who caused friction in the first game of the double header when he called Kevin Gausman for a balk. Today, Nelson was behind home plate and was definitely making poor calls. As the game progressed, the Blue Jays dugout was getting more and more voocal and in the 7th ining, the benches cleared at the end of the top half of the inning after Orioles righty Bryan Baker made a gesture at the Blue Jays dugout after striking out Teo to end the inning. In the bottom half of the inning, Schneider was ejected for arguing balls and strikes. Don't be surprised if tomorrow's game starts with both benches being warned. With these two squads likely battling it out for the final WC spot and 7 games left in the season series, the temperature will only rise 
• Speaking of hot, Bo Bichette's bat is sizzling. After hitting 3 home runs in the second game of yesterday, Bo whacked a 2-run shot and scored 4 times. He's getting hot at just the right time. Hopefully the streak is contagious and other regulars follow suit. Can he pitch?
• In terms of the WC race, the Orioles gained a game back with the win and could finish the series exactly where they started - 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays for the 2nd WC spot. The Rays won and the Mariners were up late in their game vs. the White Sox. The Blue Jays are 1.5 games back of the Rays and will likely be the same of the Mariners.
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for series win #20 and will be looking to restore the 4.5 game cushion over the Orioles. Ace Alek Manoah starts against Orioles righty Dean Kremer 

Game #135 Toronto Blue Jays (75-59) @ Baltimore Orioles (71-64)

 

Games #133 and 134- Toronto Blue Jays (75-59) @ Baltimore Orioles (71-63) - game recap (records will be what they were after the 2nd game)

 

Bo Bichette hit a trio of HR in the 2nd game of today's double header. He drover in two runs in the 1st game as the Blue Jays swept the double-header, defeating the Orioles 7-3 in game 1 and 8-4 in game 2.

After eking out a win to complete a crucial series sweep of the Pirates yesterday, the Blue Jays began a crucial 4-game-in-3-nights series against the Orioles. The Orioles have won 6 of the 9 meetings in the season series thus far, outscoring the Blue Jays 48-45. Zach Pop was recalled as the 29th man for today's double header. Julian Merryweather was added for the 2nd game with Casey Lawrence optioned back to AAA-ball and Zack Collins DFA'd. Kevin Gausman started the 1st game and Jose Berrios started the 2nd game. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate for the first game and Danny Jansen caught the second game. Matt Chapman DH'd in the 1st game and was at the hot corner in the second game. George Springer was in CF the first game and DH'd the second gsme. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was in LF the 1st game and Raimel Tapia was in LF the 2nd game. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner in the 1st game. Jackie Bradley Jr. started the 2nd game in CF. Could the Blue Jays sweep the double header or at least split the two games? Here is/are today's game recap(s).

Game #133 & 134 Toronto Blue Jays (73-59) @ Baltimore Orioles (71-62)

 

Game #132- Toronto Blue Jays (73-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-84) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in the winning run as the Blue Jays edged the Pirates 4-3 for their 3rd straight win and 5th series sweep of the season

After a huge win on a clutch 3-run double by Bo Bichette and a solid effort from the bullpen, the Blue Jays were looking for their 3rd straight win and 5th series sweep of the season. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Whit Merrifield in CF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Alejandro served as DH for today's game. Could the Blue Jays sweep the Pirates and win their third straight game? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Whit Merrifield singled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Alejandro Kirk singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Cavan Biggio hammered a solo bomb to right 
• The Pirates got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Josh VanMeter doubled scoring Ben Gamel and Cal Mitchell
• The Pirates tied the game in the bottom of the 5th as Oneil Cruz drilled a solo bomb to dead center 
• JT Brubaker pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 5K 91 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 6IP 2H 3R (all earned) 3BB 8K 95 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Cavan Biggio
• Jordan Romano got the final 3 outs for his 30th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Pirates 3

My Take:

• Ross Stripling battled through 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 8. With a double header looming tomorrow, the Blue Jays would have liked Stripling to go another inning to REALLY save the bullpen. Stripling more or less cruised through the first 3 innings, allowing just a walk and a hit batter in the 1st and 3rd innings respectively. In the 4th inning, the Pirates got a couple of runners on via a pair of walks and then Stripling gave up a 2-run double to cut the lead to one. Oneil Cruz took Stripling yard in the 5th inning and just like that the game was tied. Stripling retired the final 5 batters he faced
• Once again it became a battle of the bullpens after the 6th inning. The Blue Jays 'pen held the Pirates at bay, although things got dicey in the bottom of the 9th when the normally lights out Jordan Romano was faced with runners on the corners with no one out, and a pitch later runners on 2nd and 3rd. It looked for sure like Romano was going to blow the save in this one. However, Romano went into beast mode and struck out the next three Pirates to end the game. Had it been a more formidable opponent, such as the Rays or Orioles, Romano may not have been as fortunate.
• Expect the Blue Jays to recall a reliever as the 27th man for tomorrow's double header
• The offence was more effective than it's been in a while, tacking on runs in three straight innings, as well as a clutch late run to clinch the sweep.
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Vlad and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had at least once hit.
• This win is HUGE. Especially since Baltimore lost today, meaning the Blue Jays go into tomorrow's double header up 2.5 games on the Orioles. The Rays also lost, meaning the Blue Jays move to within a game of the Rays for the 2nd WC spot and home field advantage in a potential WC2 vs. WC3 matchup. The Mariners, who hold the 1st WC spot and would face the reeling Indians if the playoffs started tomorrow, were leading in the top of the 4th against the Indians, but in a rain delay.
• Up next, the Blue Jays begin a crucial 4-game-in-3-nights series against the Orioles, starting with a labor day double header tomorrow. The Orioles have won 6 of the 9 meetings in the season series thus far, outscoring the Blue Jays 48-45.. The pitching matchup in the first game will be Kevin Gausman up against Orioles righty Jordan Lyles. Jose Berrios will start the 2nd game for the Blue Jays. The Orioles have not announced a starter for the 2nd game yet.

Game #132 Toronto Blue Jays (72-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-83)

 

Game #131- Toronto Blue Jays (72-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-83) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette scored a run and drove in 3 runs in a 4-1 come-from-behind win over the Pirates

After a shutout win last night on the back of 7.1 stellar innings from Alec Manoah and clutch 2-run hits from Santiago and Bo Bichette, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd win in a row, 9th season series win snd 20th series win of the season. Today was a bullpen day with Trevor Richards pitching first. Veteran catcher Danny Jansen was behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Raimel Tapia in CF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 2nd win in a row, 20th series win and 9th season series win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Trevor Richards pitching line: 2IP 1H 0R 0BB 3K 25 pitches (17 for strikes)
• The Pirates opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Oneil Cruz tripled home Jason Delay 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 4th on a ground out by Raimel Tapia that scored Bo Bichette 
• Roansy Contreras pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 92 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Bichette doubled scoring George Springer, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Matt Chapman
• Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 29th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Pirates 1

My Take:

• On a bullpen day, Trevor Richards did his job pitching the first two innings and giving up just one hit while walking none and striking out three. Openers can be good or disastrous. Richards was good
• The next man up, Yusei Kikuchi, gave up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5 over 2.1 innings. I actually think Kikuchi is more effective as a reliever. He may get another shot at starting next season, but if I'm Pete Walker and John Schneider, I'm convincing him to remain in the bullpen. The other 5 relievers held the Pirates to just 2 hits over the final 3.2 innings while striking out 4. You can't ask for much more. That was a solid effort. Hopefully they aren't needed much tomorrow, because the Blue Jays have a double header starting in less than 48 hours.
• Offensively, Bo Bichette was the big hero, scoring the opening run and driving the other three with a bases clearing double in the 7th.
• The Blue Jays were 1-11 with runners in scoring position
• Hopefully Santiago Espinal is ok after getting drilled in the hand by a 97MPH fastball. He'll almost certainly be held out of at least tomorrow's game
• In terms of the wild card race, the Rays, Orioles and Mariners all won, while the Twins were routed 13-0
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 3rd straight win and their 5th series sweep of the season. Ross Stripling starts against Pirates righty JT Brubaker 

Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (71-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-82)

 

Game #130- Toronto Blue Jays (71-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-82) - game recap

Alek Manoah pitched 7.1 shutout innings in a 4-0 shutout win over the Pirates

After an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays began a weekend road trip in Pittsburgh to begin a stretch of a ton of baseball, including a double header Monday in Baltimore. The Pirates took the season series 2-1 and outscored the Blue Jays 16-7 last time these two squads met in 2017. Bradley Zimmerman and righty Casey Lawrence were the two September call-ups. Both are interesting choice (Zimmerman because the Blue Jays already have seven outfielders already: George Springer, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Teoscar Hernandez, Raimel Tapia, Jacckie Bradley Jr., Cavan Biggo and Whit Merrifield. Of course at least a couple of them are playing hurt or banged up. Casey Lawrence could start Saturday or one of the games in Monday's double header.) Alek Manoah got the start. The Blue Jays went with the same lineup as Wednesday's loss to the Cubs. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend and road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Johan Oviedo pitching line: 3IP 2H 0R 3BB 4K 77 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Santiago Espinal doubled scoring Matt Chapman and Cavan Biggio 
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7.1IP 5H 0R 1BB 6K 98 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Bo Bichette smashed a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Whit Merrifield 
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Pirates 0

My Take:

• Alek Manoah threw 7.1 shutout innings, scattering 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. He retired 13 in a row at one point. At this point, Manoah will almost certainly get the start in the first gsme of a WC series where getting out of the gate fast is critical.
• The bullpen was perfect, retiring the final five Pirates batters in order, including striking out three in a row. 
• Offensively, the Blue Jays offense was frustrating at first, leaving five runners on base in the 2nd and 3rd inning combined, including a bases loaded opportunity in the 3rd inning. Santiago Espinal delivered a clutch two-run double in the 4th. Kudos to Cavan Biggio for hustling around the bases to score from 1st base. Bo Bichette went yard in the 9th to give the Blue Jays some more breathing room and to save Jordan Romano for tomorrow's TBD day and likely bullpen day
• In terms of the wild card race, the Mariners and Orioles won and the Rays were up 5-0 on the Yankees late.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their second straight win and 20th series win of the season, as well as the 9th season series win of the season. Blue Jays batters will face Pirates righty Roansy Contreras. The Blue Jays have not announced a starter for the game 

Game #130 Toronto Blue Jays (70-59) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (49-81)