Game #28 - Seattle Mariners (12-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-10) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 3-run HR in a losing effort as the Mariners came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 10-8 in 10 innings

After winning a pitcher's duel on a 10-inning walk-off RBI single by George Springer, the Blue Jays go for their 7th straight win and 2nd straight series sweep. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B. Danny Jansen served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it seven straight wins and two straight series sweeps? Here is today's game recap.

Game #28 Seattle Mariners (11-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-9)

 

Game #27 - Seattle Mariners (11-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-9) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit the game winning sngle in a 1-0 extra innings win over the Mariners

After snapping a seven game skid against the Mariners on the backs of a gutsy 5.2 inning effort from Alex Manoah and four perfect innings from the bullpen, as well as a clutch George Springer RBI single, the Blue Jays were going for their 6th straight win and 7th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it six straight wins and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Easton Mcgee pitching line: 6.2IP 1H 0R 1BB 2K 64 pitches (45 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line:7IP 6H 0R 1BB 13K 108 pitches (74 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 10th as Daulton Carsho singled home
• Final score: Blue Jays 1 Mariners 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman had another phenomenol start, firing seven shutout innings, scattering six hits while walking one and striking out thirteen. He retired 13 straight at one point. If the playoffs started next week, he'd be the game one starter for sure 
• The bullpen held the Mariners to a 10th inning walk. Ex-Mariners righty Erik Swanson got credit vs. his old team
• The offemce was held in check until the 10th when unlikely hero Daulton Varsho singled home Vlad. The last two games the Blue Jays got to the Mariners bullpen that shut them down last season.
• It has not been a happy return thus far for Teo, who is now 0-8 with seven strikeouts. Plus, I'm sure he can't be happy his team has lost both games
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 7th straight win and 2nd series sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt gets the start against Mariners lefty Marco Gonzales

Game #27 Seattle Mariners (11-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-9)

 

Game #26 - Seattle Mariners (11-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-9) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in the game-winning run in a 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Mariners to extend the winning streak to 5 games and snap a 7-game sjud vs. the Mariners

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened the most anticipated series of the season against their expansion cousins Seattle Mariners, who have a six game winning streak vs. the Blue Jays, including the disastrous wild card series in Toronto and a 4-game sweep last season in Seattle. The Mariners won the regular season series 5-2, but the Blue Jays outscored the Mariners 28-21. It also marked the return of Teoscar Hernandez to Toronto following an off-season trade to the Mariners that sent righty reliever Erik Swanson the other way. Hernandez came to Toronto in a trade with Houston (along with Nori Aoki) in 2017 that sent lefty Francisco Liriano to the Astros. In 609 games as a blue Jay, Hernandez batted .363 with 129HR and 369RBI. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Brandon Belt served as DH. Daulton Varsho was in LF, Kevin Kiermaier got the start in CF and Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games and snap s 7-game skid against the Mariners? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Cal Raleigh hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right 
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk smashed a solo jack to left-center 
• The Mariners retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Raleigh singled scoring Jarred Kelenic
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Matt Chapman doubled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 4BB 7K 100 pitches (61 for strikes) 
• Luis Castillo pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 95 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as George Springer singled scoring Whit Merrifield 
• Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Mariners 2

My Take:

• Alek Manoah battled through 5 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 7. He definitely did not have his best stuff tonight. With the run in the 2nd inning, the streak of scoreless innings ended at 20.1 innings.
• The bullpen was excellent tonight, throwing 4 perfect innings and striking out eight. Tim Mayza was credited with the win
• Blue Jays pitchers did a great job against ex-Blue Jays slugger Teoscar Hernandez, striking him out 3 times. Hernandez was 0-4 tonight
• Offensively, the Blue Jays rallied in the 2nd and 3rd innings after the Mariners took one-run leads in the top half of those innings. George Springer had a clutch RBI base hit in the 6th to give the Blue Jays the lead.
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 6th straight win and their 7th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Mariners righty Chris Flexen

Game #26 Seattle Mariners (11-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-9)

 

Game #25 - Chicago White Sox (7-18) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-9) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 3-4 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI in an 8-0 shutout win over the White Sox

After a solid shutout win thanks to a 7-inning effort from Jose Berrios and a 3-runs scored, 4-RBI day from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their first series sweep of the season.  Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF.  Santiago Espinal returned to the lineup at 2B after missing several days after getting drilled in the right hand by a Gerrit Cole fastball. Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins and complete their first series sweep of the season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game #25 Chicago White Sox (7-17) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-9)

 

Game #24 - Chicago White Sox (7-17) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-9) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen was 3-4 with 3 runs scored and 4RBI in a 7-0 shutout win over the White Sox

After a solid win over the White sox Thanks to Cavan Biggio's go-ahead three run home run, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their fifth series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup in RF After the complete day off yesterday (he did enter the game last night in the 7th inning pinch-hitting for Cavan Biggio). Vladimir Guerrero Jr was back in the field after the half day off yesterday as DH. Brandon belt served as DH today. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 5th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #24 Chicago White Sox (7-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-9)

 

Game #23 - Chicago White Sox (7-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-9) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio hit a go-ahead 3-run HR in a 5-2 come-from behind win over the White Sox.

After ending the road trip on a winning note, thus ending the Yankees streak of series wins, the Blue Jays returned home for a week-long homestand starting tonight against the White Sox. Last season, the Blue Jays won the season series against the White Sox 4-2, outscoring the southsiders 43-31. Adam Cimber, who strained his right rhomboid muscle, was placed on the 15-day IL and Nate Pearson was recalled from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  George Springer got the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #23 Chicago White Sox (7-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-9)

 

Game #22 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-9) @ New York Yankees (13-9) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 7 shutout innings in a 5-1 win over the Yankees, handing the Yankees their first series loss of the season.

After an implosion by the bullpen, the Blue Jays were looking to end the week and road trip with a win and notch their 5th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in LF and Kevin Kiermaier was in CF. Whit Merrifield got the start at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays end the week on a winning note and get their 5th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #22 Toronto Blue Jays (12-9) @ New York Yankees (13-8)

 

Game #21 - Toronto Blue Jays (12-9) @ New York Yankees (13-5) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw seven shutout innings in a 3-2 loss to the Yankees

After a solid win over the Yankees thanks to a 4-RBI effort from Brandon Belt and 6 strong innings, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and 4th series win of the season. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Daulton Varsho got the start in CF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row vs. the Yankees and their 5th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Gerritt Cole pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 0R 2BB 4K 96 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 2H 0R 1BB 5K 85 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 8th as Anthony Volpe drilled a 2-run shot t o the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Oswald Peraza
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 9th as Danny Jansen whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Alejandro Kirk
• The Yankees walked it off in the bottom half of the inning as DJ LeMahieu singled home Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
• Final score: Yankees 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Alek Manoah was outstanding, firing 7 shutout innings, giving up a pair of hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. He retired 14 of the last 15 batters he faced. 
• The bullpen was not as sharp, giving up three runs on five hits while walking one and striking out none. Yimi Garcia gave up a 2-run jack to break a scoreless tie and Jordan Romano did not record an out, giving up a run on 3 hits and a walk.
• Scary moment for Blue Jays fans with Santiago Espinal forced to leave the game in the 2nd inning after getting drilled by a Gerritt Cole fastball on his right hand/wrist. Commentator Buck Martinez was mentioning on the broadcast that he heard it all the way up in the broadcast booth. Worst case scenario would be a fracture which could cost Espinal a couple of months.
• The Blue Jays offense really couldn't do much against Yankees starter Gerritt Cole. Good on Danny Jansen taking advantage of a pinch hit opportunity to tie the game with one swing 
• The Blue Jays were 0-9 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 5th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman, who will be looking for a bounceback effort after a terrible start where he allowed 7 first inning runs, will be pitching against Yankees righty Clarke Schmidt

Game #21 Toronto Blue Jays (12-8) @ New York Yankees (12-8)

 

Game #20 - Toronto Blue Jays (12-8) @ New York Yankees (12-8) - game recap

 

Brandon Belt drove in 4 runs and scored one himself in a 6-1 victory over the Yankees

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a weekend series against the Yankees at Yankees Stadiium. Last season, the Yankees won the season series 11-8, outscoring the Blue Jays 83-63. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday. Vlad got the half day off tonight as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap?

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. bashed a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring George Springer 
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Oswaldo Cabrera smacked an opposite field solo jack to right 
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Brandon Belt belted a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• Domingo German pitching line: 6IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 6K 91 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 3K 90 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Belt doubled scoring Bo Bichette and Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Yankees 1

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi had another strong start, firing 6 innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. He would like to have the pitch he threw to Oswalso Cabrera that went over the short porch in right, but other than that he was solid. Kikuchi retired the final 4 batters he faced.
• The bullpen gave up just one hit while walking none and striking out 4 over the final 3 innings
• Offensively, it was the Brandon Belt and Vlad show tonight. Vlad got things started in the 1st inning by hammering a 2-run bomb into the Blue Jays bullpen. Belt drove in the other 4 runs, scoring one himself on a 2-run shot, his first in a Blue Jays uniform
• The Blue Jays tightened things up and made sure they were in the batter's box on time (on Wednesday, they were called for 3 pitch count violations)
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their second straight win and 5th series win of the season. It will be a battle of the aces with Alek Manoah pitching against Yankees righty Gerritt Cole

Game #20 Toronto Blue Jays (11-8) @ New York Yankees (12-7)

 

Game #19 - Toronto Blue Jays (11-8) @ Houston Astros (9-10) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw seven strong innings in a losing effort as the Astros routed the Blue Jays 8-1

After a solid win backed by the best start in a Blue Jays uniform by Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 wins in a row and their 4th series win of the season. Jose Berrios got to start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.. George Springer got a half day off as DH With Nathan Lukes in RF. Daulton Varsho got the start in LF and Kevin Kiermaier was in CF. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the blue jays make it two wins in a row and third fourth series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #19 Toronto Blue Jays (11-7) @ Houston Astros (8-10)

 

Game #18 - Toronto Blue Jays (11-7) @ Houston Astros (8-10) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt through 6.1 shutout innings in a 4-2 victory over the Astros

After a blowout loss to the Astros last night, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid. Chris Bassitt got the start. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merifield was in LF. Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B. Finally, Brandon Belt served as DH. Could the Blue Jays even the series and snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #18 Toronto Blue Jays (10-7) @ Houston Astros (8-9)

 

Game #17 - Toronto Blue Jays (10-7) @ Houston Astros (8-9) - game recap

 

Matt Chapman hit a solo HR in a 9-2 loss to the Astros

After dropping the series finale to the Rays, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week long road trip beginning tonight in Houston. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Astros 4-2, but the Astros outscored the Blue Jays 27-26. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Vlad got the half day off tonight as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in LF and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Astros opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jose Abreu doubled scoring Mauricio Dubon and Yordan Alvarez
• Three batters later, Corey Julks doubled scoring Abreu and Kyle Tucker 
• A batter later, Jake Meyers whacked a three-run blast to the opposite-field in right; also scoring Julks and Jeremy Pena
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 2nd as Matt Chapman hammered a solo bomb to the opposite field in right-center 
• The Astros added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Julks belted a solo bomb to dead center 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 4.2IP 7H 8R (7 earned) 2BB 5K 93 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Cristian Javier pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 97 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Astros added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Dubon that scored Meyers 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Santiago Espinal annihilated a solo bomb to left
• Final score: Astros 9 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• In a word, yikes! Kevin Gausman was lit up for 7 runs on 4 hits, 2 walks and a catcher's interference call against Danny Jansen in the first inning alone, He allowed an 8th run on a Corey Julks solo jack. The Astros were jumping all over Gausman who was leaving way too many balls in the hitter's zone. It was by far Gausman's worst start of the season. Here's hoping he bounces back Sunday against an equally formidable Yankees lineup.
• The bullpen held the Astros to a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7
• The offense didn't generate much and did not capitlize on the rare opportunities they got, going 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to bounce back after back-to-back blowout losses. Chris Bassitt starts against Astros righty Jose Urquidy

Game #17 Toronto Blue Jays (10-6) @ Houston Astros (7-9)

 

Game #16 - Tampa Bay Rays (14-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-6) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in the Blue Jays only run in an 8-1 loss to the Rays

After their second win in a row against the formerly undefeated Tampa Bay Rays on a strong 6 inning effort from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to wrap up the week and homestand with their 1st series sweep of the season. Ace Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jordan Luplow in RF. Whit Merrifield got the start in LF and Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Vould the Blue Jays compete the sweep? Here is today's game recap.

Game #16 Tampa Bay Rays (13-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-5)

 

Game #15 - Tampa Bay Rays (13-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-5) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 6 strong innings in a 5-2 win over the Rays 

After a solid win over the Rays that ended their 13 game undefeated streak that tied the modern day record for longest win streak to start a season, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Alejandro Kirk served as DH and Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #15 Tampa Bay Rays (13-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (9-5)

 

Game #14 - Tampa Bay Rays (13-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (9-5) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 5 strong innibgs in a 6-3 win over the Rays, ending the Rays undefeated team

After dropping the series finale yesterday against the Tigers, the Blue Jays opened a weekend set against the hottest team in baseball, as well as the only undefeated team and their division rivals, the Tampa Bay Rays. Last season, the Rays edged the Blue Jays 10-9 in the season series and outscored the Blue Jays 82-73. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday. Matt Chapman was back in the lineup and at the hot corner after a full day off yesterday. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulto Varsho was in LF. Santiiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win and end the Rays undefeated streak? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #14 Tampa Bay Rays (13-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-5)

 

Game #13 - Detroit Tigers (3-9) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-5) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw six strong innings in a 3-1 loss to the Tigers

After a huge come from behind win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to four games and earn their first series sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt, who was looking for his first win in a Blue Jays uniform, got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Matt Chapman, who has been dealing with a nagging injury, was given the complete day off. Vlad got the  half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it four wins in a row and complete their first sweep of the season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #13 Detroit Tiger (2-9) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-4)

 

Game #12-- Detroit Tigers (2-9) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-4) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in the game winning run as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Tigers 4-3 in ten innings

After celebrating the home opener with a bang, literally, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games. Kevin Gusman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Matt Chapman got the half day off as DH with Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #12 Detroit Tiger (2-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (7-4)

 

Game #11 - Detroit Tigers (2-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (7-4) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk belted a 3-run HR in a 9-3 win over the Tigers

After a lengthy road trip that went through Missouri and California, the Blue Jays returned home to their newly renovated stadium. Their opponent will be the team geographically closest to them, the Detroit Tigers. The Blue Jays won the season series last year 5-2, outscoring the Tigers 33-15, Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing on Sunday. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the blue jays extend the winner streak 2 games and win the home? Opener question? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #11 Detroit Tiger (2-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-4)

 

Ten random thoughts: week 1: March 30-April 9

Another baseball season is upon us and with the first week of the season comes my first edition of 10 random thoughts of the 2023 season. Last season ended in spectacular fashion with a two game series sweep in the wild card round at the hands of their expansion cousins the Seattle Mariners. The off season saw a shift in the culture of the locker room. Gone are outfielders Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Raimel Tapia and and Teoscar Hernandez, three players who were seen as, at times, not taking the game too seriously. They were replaced by Daulton Varsho and Kevin Kiermaier, both considered to be defensive upgrades. George Springer has moved to playing right field full time in the hopes of keeping him on the field and healthier. Brandon Belt was brought in to be the full time DH and also the backup 1st baseman. Righty Chris Basstt was added to an already solid starting rotation. One move that was made that will essentially be a mid season acquisition was the signing of reliever Chad Green. The former Yankees reliever will not be available until towards the All Star break as he is recovering from Tommy John surgery. The Blue Jays also acquired reliever Erik Swanson in the Hernandez trade with Seattle. We will look at all those players and where they are now and how their first week of the season has gone. The new 2023 season also sees manager John Schneider begin his 1st full season as manager of the Blue Jays after taking over from the fired Charlie Montoya mid season last year. The Rogers Centre underwent major changes in the off season and the look and fan experience will be vastly different. The upper deck seats were all removed and replaced by social spaces and rooftop patios were added where fans can stand and watch the game. The dimensions of the outfield have changed and become shorter distance for home runs, the outfield fences are also taller,qwa    ` so it will be more difficult to make a great catch at the wall. I'll talk more about the Roger's Centre changes later. 

Game #10 - Toronto Blue Jays (6-4) @ LA Angels (5-4) - game recap

 

Matt Chapman was 3-5 with 5RBI and 2 runs scored. including a grand slam in a 12-11 come-from behind win over the Angels

After a tough loss, the Blue Jays wrapped up the series and road trip with a matinee in Anaheim Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danmy Jansen behind the plate. George  Springer got the half day off as DH with Whit Merrifield in RF. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Could the Blue Jays end the road trip with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #10 Toronto Blue Jays (5-4) @ Los Angeles Angels (5-3)

 

Game #9 - Toronto Blue Jays (5-4) @ LA Angels (5-3) - game recap

Matt Chapman hit a 2-run HR in a 9-5 loss to the Angels

 After a huge come-from behind win on the backs of a Bo Bichette 3-run HR, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games and make it two straight series wins. Jose Berrios got the start. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Brandon Belt served as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games and 2 straight series wins? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Bo Bichette hammered a 2-run HR bomb to dead center; also scoring George Springer 
• Two batters later, Matt Chapman drilled a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Angels got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Gio Urshela scored on a ground out by Luis Rengifo
• The Angels got one back in the bottom of the fourth on a ground out hit by Anthony Rendon that scored mike Trout 
• A batter later, Hunter Renfroe doubled scoring Shohei Ohtani
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as George Springer drilled a solo bomb to dead center
• Tyler Anderson pitching line: 4.2IP 7H 5R (all earned) 2BB 4K 71 pitches (43 for strikes)
• The Angels got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Rengifo bashed a solo blast to left-center
• Three batters later, Trout hammered a three run bomb to left-center; also scoring Taylor Ward and Matt Thiass
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4IP 6H 6R (4 earned) 88 pitches (61 for strikes) 
• The Angels added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Renfrow smashed a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Rendon
• Final score: Angels 9 Blue Jays 5

My Take: 

• Jose Berrios continues to search for answers as he has now given up 14 runs in his first two starts, 8 five days ago and amother 6 tonight. He was out of the game when the final two runs were charged to him scored (Adam Cimber relieved him in the bottom of the fifth after Berrios allowed a solo home run followed by a throwing error by him and a single to start the fifth inning). The Blue Jays gave him four runs of support in the fourth inning and Berrios could not hold the lead. Obviously, Berrios has work to do in his side sessions between starts.
• The relievers gave up three runs on four hits, while walking two and striking out three to put the game out of reach.
• All five Blue Jays runs came off of the long ball. Chapman and Bo Bichette both contributed 2-run jacks and George Springer added a solo shot
• The Blue Jays were an abysmal 0-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the road trip with a matinee in Anaheim. Yusei Kikuchi will be trying for his second solid start of the season. Angels will counter with lefty Reid Detmer, the third straight southpaw the Blue Jays will have faced.

Game #9 Toronto Blue Jays (5-3) @ Los Angeles Angels (4-3)

 

Game #8 - Toronto Blue Jays (5-3) @ LA Angels (4-3) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette smashed a clutch 3-run HR in a 4-3 come-from-behind win over the Angels

After hanging on to beat the Royals yesterday, the Blue Jays headed to LA to begin a weekend set against the Angels. Last season, the Blue Jays won the season series 4-3, but the Angels outscored the Blue Jays 43-30. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after the complete day off yesterday and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was also back in the field after a half day off as DH yesterday. Whit Merriield was in LF and Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B. Jordan Luplow got his first start in a Blue Jays uniform as DH ( they claimed him off waivers from the bravest this week and initially sent him down to AAA bowl, but called him up for this series). Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Mike Trout hammered a 2 run bomb to left center; also scoring Taylor Ward
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero junior scored on a fielder's choice hit by Santiago Espinal
• The Angels added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a sac bunt by David Fletcher that scored Gio Urshela. Fletcher was safe on the play since the throw from Chris Bassett pulled Guerrero Jr off the bag at 1st base.
• Patrick Sandoval pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 2K 89 pitchers (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Bo Bichette drilled a three run bomb to left-center;  also scoring Espinal and George Springer
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 2H 3R (all earned) 5BB 5K 109 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Jordan Romano threw a [erfect 9th for his 4th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Angels 3

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 6 innings giving up 3 runs on 2 hits while walking 5 and striking out 5. His start to the game was definitely suboptimal. After walking the lead off a better, Bassitt gave up a no doubter to Mike Trout, one of the best hitters in the game. He is still working on locating his signature sinker ball pitch. At least tonight he was able to keep the game fairly close to allow Bichette To give the blue jays the lead and give him a chance at a win.
• The bullpen held the Angels to a leadoff Shohei Ohtani double in the 8th
• Every Blue Jays starter except Alejandro Kirk and Jordan Luplow had at least one hit.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to keep it going with their 5th straight win. Jose Berrios starts against Angels lefty Tyler Anderson

Game #8 Toronto Blue Jays (4-3) @ Los Angeles Angels (4-2)

 

Game #7 - Toronto Blue Jays (4-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-6) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6 shutout innings in a 6-3 win over the Royals 

After a solid shutout win on the backs of a strong 7 shutout inning effort from ace Alek Manoah and Vladdy and Matt Chapman driving the offense, the blue jays were looking For the 3rd straight win and their first series win of the season. Kevin Gauman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer has the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. What Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and their first series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #7 Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-5)

Game #6 - Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-5) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw 7 innings in a 3-0 shutout win over the Royals

After a solid win thanks to a solid start from Blue Jays fifth starter Yusei Kikuchi, The Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games which would be their first multiple win streak of the season. Ace Alek Manoah made his second start of the season. He was looking to bounce back from his career worst opening day start where he allowed five runs on nine hits over 3.1 innings. Alejandro Kirk gott the start behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Brandon Belt served as DH tonight and Cavan Biggio was at 2nd base. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and guarantee a series split against the Royals this week? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #6 Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-4)

Game #5- Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-4) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 5 solid innings in a 4-1 win over the Royals. Kikuchi was the first Blue Jays starting pitcher to get credit for a win.

After a mediocre start by Jose Berrios in a game that saw Bo Bichette finally get the Blue Jays on the team HR board, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series vs. the Royals and snap the 2-game skid.Yusei Kikuchi, who was mostly a wild and ineffective disaster in 2022, will be looking to parlay an excellent spring training into the regular season. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Whit Merrifield in RF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #5 Toronto Blue Jays (1-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-3)

Game #4 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-3) - game recap

Bo Bichette hit the Blue Jays first home run of the season in a 9-5 loss to the Royals

 

After a wild first weekend that saw the Blue Jays win the season opener in a game that saw multiple lead changes and an uncharacteristic start from ace Alek Manoah, who could not get out of the 4th inning, and then lose the second game when they were facing a pitcher that walked seven batters (The Blue Jays were no hit until Kevin Kiermaier smacked a 1-out single in the 7th inning) and a regrettable Sunday debut for Chris Bassitt that saw the sinker-baller get torched for nine runs over 3.1innings, including four that went over the wall for home runs, the Blue Jays opened a 4-game series against the Kansas City Royals. Last season, the Blue Jays were 5-2 against the Royals, outscoring KC 38-19. Jose Berrios got the start. Berrios was hoping to avoid a repeat of last season's opening day start where he could not escape the first inning. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier was back in CF after a day off yesterday with Daulton Varsho in LF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win and even their overall record? Here is tonight's game recap.