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| 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 Highlights:
- The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Matt Chapman that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
- Zack Greinke pitching line: 6IP 7H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 77 pitches (51 for strikes)
- The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. smashed a solo blast to the opposite field and bright-center
- The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Chapman singled home Daulton Varsho
- Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 5K 98 pitches (61 for strikes)
- Jordan Romano threw a scoreless 9th for his 3rd save of the season
- Final score: Blue Jays 3 Royals 0
My Take:
- Know that was the Alek Manoah that we all know and love. 5 days after his worst career start, Manoah threw 7 shut out innings giving up just one hit, 4 walks while striking out 5. Manoah retired the last 8 batters he faced. The biggest threat the Royals had was runners on 1st and 2nd with no one out In the bottom of the 3rd. Manoa struck out Bobby Whitt junior and then got MJ Melendez to line into an ending double play. There's no question that being hyped about starting on opening day and having less time with his personal catcher Alejandro Kirk due to Kirk being on baby watch in Mexico were factors in the rough outing Manoah five days ago. He's probably the starting pitcher the Blue Jays have the least concern about.
- The bullpen held the Royals to a hit while striking out 2 over the final 2 innings.
- Vlad and Matt Chapman drove the offense today, combining to go 4-8 with 3 runs scored and 3RBI.
- Every Blue Jays starter execpt Brandon Belt, Cavan Biggio and Bo Bichette had at least one hit.
- Up next, the Blue Jays go for three straight wins and their first series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Royals righty Jordan Lyles
