Game #56 Milwaukee Brewers (28-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-26)

 

Game #55 - Milwaukee Brewers (28-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-26) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield was 2-4 with 2 RBI and a run scored in a 7-2 win over the Brewers

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a 3-game set against the Milwaukee Brewers. Blue Jays fans will get to see ex-Blue Jays DH/1B Rowdy Telllez. Yusei Kikuci got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Sunday's shutout win over Minnesota. Could the Blue Jays increase the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #55 Milwaukee Brewers (28-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (28-26)

 

Game #54 - Toronto Blue Jays (28-26) @ Minnesota Twins (27-26) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a pair in a 3-0 shutout win over the Twins

After another tough loss on a late game rally that came up short, the Blue Jays were looking to end the week and road trip on a winning note and note their 10th series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Ajandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays end the week and road trip with a win and notch their 10th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #54 Toronto Blue Jays (27-26) @ Minnesota Twins (27-25)

 

Game #53 - Toronto Blue Jays (27-26) @ Minnesota Twins (27-25) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was a double short of the cycle, driving in 4 runs and scoring once in a losing effort as the Twins came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 9-7

After a much-needed win yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for their 10th series win. Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Brandon Belt DH'd today). Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to two games and notch their 10th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #53 Toronto Blue Jays (27-25) @ Minnesota Twins (26-25)

 

Game #52 Toronto Blue Jays (26-25) @ Minnesota Twins (26-24)

Game #51 - Toronto Blue Jays (26-25) @ Tampa Bay Rays (37-15) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk was 3-4 and scored a run in a losing effort as the Rays came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 6-3

After another tough loss not helped by a late game bullpen meltdown, the Blue Jays were looking to leave Tampa Bay on a winning note and avoid their 7th series loss of the season. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Brandon Belt served as DH.  Could the Blue Jays leave Tampa Bay on a winning note and avoid their 7th series loss of the season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights: 

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Brandon Belt singled scoring Daulton Varsho 
• The Rays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Randy Arozarena singled scoring Wander Franco
• Two batters later, Arozarena scored on a fielder's choice hit by Harold Ramirez 
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Josh Lowe doubled scoring Luke Raley 
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Taylor Walls scored on a double steal and throwing error charged to Alejandro Kirk
• Same batter, Raley scored on a groundout hit by Manuel Margot
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 3IP 3H 5R (4 earned) 5BB 6K 87 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Arozarena singled home Franco
• Zach Eflin pitching line: 7IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 0K 94 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Kirk was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Bo Bichette 
• A batter later,  Kevin Kiermaier scored on a sac fly by Ernie Clement
• Colin Poche got the last 2 outs for his 1st save of the season 
• Final score: Rays 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Another rough start from Alek Manoah, who gave up 5 runs (4 earned) on 3 hits while walking 5 and striking out 6. Manoah's season is very much resembling that of last year's opening day starter, Jose Berrios, who also struggled mightily. Berrios showed more flashes of his good pitching though. The issue is now beyond Manoah and catcher Alejandro Kirk not being on the same page due to Kirk missing most of spring training in Mexico awaiting the birth of his fiirst child. You almost hope that Manoah is trying to play through an injury that is affecting his delivery and pitching. Surely a trip to the 10-day IL or perhaps a demotion to Buffalo is on the horizon. Manoah needs a reset on the season. A demotion wouldn't be the worst thing in the world. Heck, Roy Halladay went all the way back to A-level ball to sort himself out. The Blue Jays need to do something before the season gets away on them.
• The bullpen held the Rays to a run on 2 hits while walking none and striking out 5 over 5 innings. Trevor Richards was excellent, retiring nine straight and striking out 3. Tim Mayza was also solid, throwing 1 perfect inning and striking out 2.
• The offense gave the Blue Jays an early first inning lead and had a big rally in the 9th that fell short. In between those innings? Four singles, 2 walks and a batter reached on an error. Nobody advanced past 1st base between the 1st and 9th innings. You will not win many ball games with that kind of production.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Minnesota to take on the Twins. The Twins won the season series last year 4-3, but the Blue Jays outscored the Twins 41-38. Kevin Gausman starts against Twins righty Louie Varland 

Game #51 Toronto Blue Jays (26-24) @ Tampa Bay Rays (36-15)

 

Game #50 Toronto Blue Jays (26-23) @ Tampa Bay Rays (35-15)

 

Game #49 - Toronto Blue Jays (26-23) @ Tampa Bay Rays (35-15) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen was 3-6 wiith 3RBI and 3 runs scored in a 20-1 rout over the Rays 

After yet another loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap a 5-game skid. Several roster moves were made ahead of today's game. First, Adam Cimber was reinstated from the 10-day IL with righty Thomas Hatch being sent back to AAA-ball. Otto Lopez was also sent back to AAA-ball with Ernie Clement being recalled from AAA-ball. Mitch White was transferred to the 60-day IL.Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Springer bashed a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Danny Jansen doubled scoring Whit Merrifield 
• Two batters later, Springer singled home Jansen
• Taj Bradley pitching line: 4IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 7K 80 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Matt Chapman and Merrifield 
• Two batters later, Varsho scored on a wild pitch by Zack Burdi
• Same batter, Jansen scored on a sac fly by Kevin Kiermaier 
• Two batters later, Springer scored on a wild pitch by Burdi
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Rays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Isaac Paredes drilled a solo bomb to left
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 91 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Chapman singled home Bichette 
• The Blue Jays dded 4 runs in the top of the 9th on a grand slam to left that also scored Kiermaier, Nathan Lukes and Ernie Clement
• Two batters later, Chapman smashed a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Cavan Biggio
• Two batters later, Varsho singled scoring Merrifield 
• A batter later. Jansen whacked a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 20 Rays 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios quiety pitched a solid seven innings, giving up a run on five hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. His command was a bit of an issue with a hit batter and a pair of walks, but he was able to make putches when he had to in order to escape jams 
• The bullpen also did irs jo, giving up a hit and a walk over the last 2 innings. Adam Cimber pitched the 9th to get some work in his first day off the IL
• The story of the day was a HUGE offensive burst from the Blue Jays, who scored 20 runs on 27 hits. Vlad drove in 6 (including a grand slam), George Spinger drove in a pair and scored thrice, Matt Chapman drove in three and scored twice. Up and down the lineup, virtually everyone contributed/
• Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit, all but Brandon Belt scored at least once and all but Belt and Bo Bichette drove in at least one run
• The Blue Jays were 9-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it two straiught wins. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Rays lefty Shane McClanahan

Game #49 Toronto Blue Jays (25-23) @ Tampa Bay Rays (35-14)

Game #48 - Toronto Blue Jays (25-23) @ Tampa Bay Rays (35-14) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield hit a 2-run HR in a 6-4 loss to the Rays

After another disappointing extra innings loss to end a dreadful week where the Blue Jays lost five of seven to division rivals the Yankees and Orioles, they hit the road for a week long trip, beginning with four that began tonight against another division rival, the Tampa Bay Rays. The Blue Jays won two of three against the Rays back in Toronto a month ago, but the Rays outscored the Blue Jays 13-12, thanks to an 8-1 blowout in the series finale after a pair of close one-run contests. Santiago Espinal was placed on the 10-day IL with a strained hamstring and Otto Lopez was recalled from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in LF. Danny Jansen served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Gand Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Christian Betancourt singled scoring Randy Arozarena
• A batter later, Jose Siri hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Betancourt 
• Trevor Kelley pitching line: 2IP 2H 0R 0BB 0K 30 pitches (21 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Isaac Paredes singled scoring Yandy Diaz
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 4th as Whit Merrifield hammered a 2-run bomb to straightaway center; also scoring Matt Chapman
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Arozarena bashed an opposite field solo blast to right
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Lucas Raley drilled a solo jack to right
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6.1IP 7H 6R (2 earned) 1BB 4K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Daulton Varsho hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Four batters later, Brandon Belt singled scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• Pete Fairbanks got the last two outs for his 5th save of the season.
• Final score: Rays 6 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• This was a weird start for Chris Bassitt, who gave up 6 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Thanks to a couple of errors by Vlad, only 2 of those runs were earned. Bassitt gave up three long balls, so really he was unable to be the stopper the Blue Jays needed and got with Kevin Gausman yesterday. At this point, it might take a near perfect game from a starting pitcher to turn things around.
• The bullpen allowed a walk while striking out 4 over the final 1.2 innings. The shutdown innings were important tonight because it kept the score reasonably close for a rally chance
• Unfortunately the rally fell short when Bo Bichette grounded out softly back to the pitcher. Hopefully the rally leads to some momentum at the beginning of tomorrow's game
• It is unlikely it will be manager John Schneider who will be the scapegoat if the Blue Jays can't turn things around pretty soon. However, Pete Walker or hitting coach Guillermo Martinez could be replaced midseason to send a message to the team
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 5-game skid. Jose Berrios starts against Rays righty Taj Bradley 

Game #48 Toronto Blue Jays (25-22) @ Tampa Bay Rays (34-14)

 

Game #47 - Baltimore Orioles (31-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-22) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 8 strong innings in a losing effort as the Orioles knocked off the Blue Jays 8-3  in 11 innings. 

After dropping an extra inning game yesterday on a weird day that sawJohn Schneider forced to remove starter Alek Manoah after a serious gaffe where he made a second mound visit after pitching coach Pete Walker had already made a mound visit earlier the same inning and the winning run being scored on a play where the ball struck runner Ryan Mountcastle in the back and deflected past the glove of Blue Jays catcher Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking to end a dreadful week with a win and hit the road on a positive. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays end the week and homestand on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Matt Chapman smashed a solo blast to left center
• The orioles tied the game in the top of the third on a groundout hit by Adley Rutschmann that scored Joey Ortiz 
• A batter later, Cedric Mullins scored on a fielder's choice hit by Anthony Santander
• Dean Kremer pitching line: 5.1IP 9H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 105 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 7th On a sack fly by Chapman that scored George Springer 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 115 pitches (77 for strikes)
• The Orioles took the lead in the top of the 10th as Mullins singled scoring Jorge Mateo
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Whit Merrifield singled home Daulton Varsho
• The Orioles retook the lead in the top of the 11th as Austin Hays singled scoring Ryan McKenna
• Two batters later, Terrin Vavra singled scoring Adam Frazier and Hays
• Two batters later, Mullins doubled home Gunner Henderson and Vavra
• Final score: Orioles 8 Blue Jays 3 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman did his part, firing 8 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. It says a lot about the Blue Jays trust in the bullpen these days that Gausman was asked to throw the extra inning, when he started the 8th inning pushing 100 pitches. If Vlad had made a better throw home, they might have gotten Cedric Mullins at the plate and Gausman might have been the winner. Then again, with Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson unavailable, perhaps not.
• The bullpen, and in particular, Yimi Garcia, was a disaster. Garcia came in after the Blue Jays worked hard to tie the game in the 10th after Nate Pearson gave up a run in the 10th and proceeeded to give up five runs on five hits. I've said it a thousand times, the bullpen is the weak spot for the Blue Jays and if management doesn't make a move soon, the Blue Jays might fall too far back and miss the playoffs entirely.
• Once again, the offence could not get it done with runners in scoring position. They were an abysmal 3-16 with runners in scoring position
• They also made several mental errors - Bo Bichette was caught stealing after overshooting the bag on the slide, Brandon Belt made an out at third base trying to advance to third base on a bakll hit to the shortstop and Whit Merrifield was picked off at 1st base in the 10th inning after driving in the tying run. During spring training, Schneider emphasized attention to detail on the little things. This game was the exact opposite of that. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road again for a week, starting with a 4-game series that begins tomorrow night at Tropicana Field against another division rival, the Tampa Rays. The Blue Jays won two of three against the Rays back in Toronto a month ago, but the Rays outscored the Blue Jays 13-12, thanks to an 8-1 blowout in the series finale after a pair of close one-run contests. Chris Bassitt starts against Rays righty Trevor Kelley.

Game #47 Baltimore Orioles (30-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-21)

 

Game #46 - Baltimore Orioles (30-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-21) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in three runs and scored twice in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 6-5 in 10 innings

After another disappointing loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid. Alek Manoah got the start wwith Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Brandon Belt served as DH today) Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Ryan O'Hearn singled scoring Adam Frazier
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 3rd as Cedric Mullins roped a solo blast just over the wall in right
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 5th as George Springer smashed a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Santiago Espinal
• Grayson Rodriguez pitching line: 5IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 6K 91 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 85 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6trh as Danny Jansen whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Springer singled scoring Whit Merrifield 
• Three batters later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Springer 
• The Orioles tied the game in the top of the 8th as O'Hearn drilled a 3-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Ryan Mountcastle and Frazier 
• The Orioles retook the lead in the top of the 10th as Mountcastle scored on a fielder's choicee on a ball hit by Austin Hays
• Final score: Orioles 6 Blue Jays 5 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Alek Manoah had a better start, firing 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on six hits while walking one and striking out 5. A major gaffe by John Schneider, who came out after Pete Walker had already made a mound visit in the 6th inning forced the removal of Manoah from the game. Interesting decision to use Danny Jansen behind the plate as opposed to Manoah's regular catcher Alejandro Kirk. Either Kirk is a bit banged up and couldn't catch today or the team wanted to try switching catchers to change Manoah's fortunes. Hopefully it's the latter reason.
• The bullpen blew this game wuth closer Jordan Romano being tagged with his 3rd blown save of the season, giving up a 3-run HR in the 8th inning.The Blue Jays definitely need to add another reliever or two - likely via trade since there aren't many viable options in Buffalo.
• Offensively, the bats came alive a bit with George Springer leading the way with 3RBI and 2 runs scored, including a game-tying 2-run shot. The two catchers, Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk were responsible for the other two runs on a solo hack and RBI single respectively. Unfortunately, the bats did not come through when needed most - the 10th inning down by a run.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to salvage a game in this series and end the homestand and week on a winning note. Kevin Gausman starts against Orioles righty Dean Kremer

Game #46 Baltimore Orioles (29-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-20)

 

Game #45 - Baltimore Orioles (29-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-20) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen drove in a run in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 6-2

After dropping three of the four games against the Yankees, the Blue Jays were looking to get back on track against another AL East rival, the Baltimor Orioles.  A sweep would put the Blue Jays a half game back of Baltimore and second place in the AL East standings. Last season, the Blue Jays edged the Orioles 10-9 in the season series, outscoring the Orioles 100-83. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the lineup as DH after missing a couple of days nursing a sore wrist. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the May long weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 2nd as Danny Jansen singled scoring Brandon Belt 
• The Orioles took the lead in the top of the 3rd as Ryan Mountcastle hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Joey Ortiz and Adley Rutschmann
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 3R (all earned) 4BB 3K 81 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 6th as Anthony Santander belted a solo jack to right
• Kyle Gibson pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 95 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th on a ground out by Bichette that scored Kevin Kiermaier 
• The Orioles added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Adam Frazier smacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Jorge Mateo
• Final score: Orioles 6 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 4.2 innings, giving up 3 runs on 3 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3. Command was an issue for Kikuch tonight. He walked 4 batters, the most he's walked in a game all season. Hopefully the command issue is a one-off that can be sorted out in side sessions this week
• The Orioles tacked on three insurance runs on 2 HR off the bullpen. Tom Hatch saw his first action of the season, giving up a double before getting the final out of the 9th. Tim Mayza was the only pitcher to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, the Blue Jays took an early lead off a Danny Jansen RBI single and score a run on a Bo Bichette ground out late. The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid.Ace Alek Manoah starts against Orioles righty Grayson Rodriguez

Game #45 Baltimore Orioles (28-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-19) APPLE TV EXCLUSIVE

 

Game #44 - New York Yankees (26-20) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-19) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 6.2 solid innings in a losing effort as the Yankees doubled ip on the Blue Jays 4-2

After a 3-0 shutout win over the Yankees on the strength of a 3-run 10th-inning walk-off HR by Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and split this 4-game series. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad remained out of the lineup with a sore wrist.Alejandro Kirk served as DH. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win

Game Highlights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Aaron Judge hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Gleyber Torres 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette cranked a solo jack to left-center
• The Yankees added a run in the top of the 7th as Aaron Hicks singled scoring Oswaldo Cabrera
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 8K 96 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Nestor Cortes pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 6K 91 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored Whit Merrifield 
• The Yankees added a run in the top of the 9th as Anthony Volpe whacked a solo blast to left
• Ron Marinaccio pitched a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Yankees 4 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 6.2 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. The ame didn't start out swell and he was down 2-0 after 2 batters off a single and a 2-run no-doubter off the bat of Aaron Judge. He settled down after that, retiring 15 of the next 16 batters. A decent effort from arguably the most inconsistent pitcher on the team
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over 2.1 innings. It's unfortunate Nate Pearson gave up a solo HR in the 9th to give the Yankees a 2-run cushion
• I liked that the Blue Jays immeduately responded with runs in two of the innings the Yankees scored/ However, they could not score in the 9th 
• Up next, the Blue Jays begin a weekend set against the Orioles. A sweep would put the Blue Jays a half game back of Baltimore and second place in the AL East standings. Last season, the Blue Jays edged the Orioles 10-9 in the season series, outscoring the Orioles 100-83.. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Orioles righty Kyle Gibson.

Game #44 New York Yankees (25-20) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-18)

 

Game #43 - New York Yankees (25-20) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-18) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw seven shutout innings in a 3-0 shutout win over the Yankees in 10 innings.

After last night's loss thanks to a late Aaron Judge HR, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 2-game skid and prevent losing their 4th series of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Vlad got the complete day off with Brandon Belt at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B and Danny Jansen served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and prevent their 4th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #43 New York Yankees (25-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-18)

 

Game #42 - New York Yankees (25-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-18) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 7 solid innings in a 6-3 loss to the Yankees

After a tough loss to the Yankees desopite a late game rally, the Blue Jays were looking to even this 4-game series and retake the lead in the season series. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off yesterday as DH. George Springer got the half day off as DH tonight with Cavan Biggio in RF. Could the Blue Jays even the 4-game series and retake the lead in the season series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #42 New York Yankees (24-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-17)

 

Game #41 - New York Yankees (24-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-17) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield drove in a run and scored a run in a losing effort as the Blue Jays fell to the Yankees 7-4

After a dramatic come-from behind walk-off win over the Braves, the Blue Jays were going for their 4th straight win, opening a 4-game series tonight against the Yankees. The Blue Jays took 2/3 from the Yankees at Yankee Stadium almost 2 months ago, outscoring the Yankees 13-5.. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH wirh Brandon Belt at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Whit Merrrifield got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #41 New York Yankees (23-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-16)

 

Game #40 - Atlanta Braves (25-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-16) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a clutch 2-run single as the Blue Jays came from behind to walk-off the Braves 6-5

After a huge come-from-behind win over the Braves, the Blue Jays were going dfor 3 straight wins and their second sweep of the season. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield got the start in LF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 2nd sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #40 Atlanta Barves (25-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (23-16)

 

Game #39 - Atlanta Braves (25-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (23-16) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in a pair of runs in a 5-2 come-from-behind win over the Braves

After a shutout win over Braves, highlighted by a complete game effort from Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and 9th series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as last night. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and 9 series wins on the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #39 Atlanta Barves (25-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (22-16)

 

Game #38 - Atlanta Braves (25-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (22-16) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw a complete game shutout in a 3-0 shutout win over the Braves 

After an off day yesterday, the Blue Jays returned home to take on the Atlanta Braves. This game also marked Buck Martinez's return to the broadcast booth (the longtime Blue Jays play-by-play man is reducing his schedule after last season's health scare with cancer). In 2021, the Blue Jays swept the season series against Atlanta, outscoring the Braves 43-20. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after missing a couple of games with a nagging injury. The rest of the lineup was the same as Wednesday's game. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-gane skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #38 Atlanta Barves (25-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (21-16)

 

Game #37 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-16) @ Philadelphia Phillies (18-19) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6 shutout innings in a losing effort as the Philles came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 2-1 in 10 innings

After dropping the opening game of the mini series against the Phillies, thanks to a rough night by the pitchers, the Blue Jays were looking to split the mini 2-game series against the Phillies and end the road trip on a winning note. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer remained out with a nagging injury (Cavan Biggio took his spot in RF). Whit Merriield was at 2B.  Could the Blue Jays split the series and end the road trip on a winning note? Here is tonight's game recap 

Game #37 Toronto Blue Jays (21-15) @ Philadelphia Phillies (17-19)

 

Game #36 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-15) @ Philadelphia Phillies (17-19) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 2-5 with 2 RBI and a run scored as the Phillies doubled up on the Blue Jays 8-4. The Blue Jays would score a third run on a ball batted by Bichette courtesy of a missed catch error

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays headed west to take on the other Pennsylvania team, the Philadelphia Phillies.. Last season, the Blue Jays were 3-1 against the Phillies, outscoring the Phillies 33-20. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the lineup and at 1B after 2 games and 3 days off to rest a sore wrist. George Springer got the complete day off with Whit Merrifield in RF. Bo Bichette was back in the Field at SS after DH'ing Sunday. Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B and Brandon Belt served as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #36 Toronto Blue Jays (21-14) @ Philadelphia Phillies (16-19)

 

Game #35 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-15) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield was 2-5 with 4RBI and a run scored in a 10-1 rout over the Pirates

After blowing out the Pirates yesterday on the backs of strong offensive games throughout the lineup and an excellent 6.1 inning effort from Jose Berrios, the Blue Jays were going for their third straight win and 2nd series sweep of the season and first season series sweep as well. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad remained out of the lineup with a sore wrist and Brandon Belt took his spot at 1B. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Santiago Espinal at SS. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 3rd sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.  

Game #35 Toronto Blue Jays (20-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-13)

 

Game #34 - Toronto Blue Jays (20-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-14) - game recap

 

Brandon Belt was 2-3 with a pair of RBI and three runs scored in an 8-2 rout over the Pirates

After a solid shutout win over the Pirates yesterday thanks to seven solid shutout innings from Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins over the Pirates and 8 series wins on the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the full day off (he was initially DH'ing but was removed from the lineup completely due to a sore wrist) with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in LF and Kevin Kiermaier got the start in CF. Whit Marrifield was at 2B. Brando Belt served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and 8 series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game #34 Toronto Blue Jays (19-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-12)

 

Game #33 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-13) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw 7 shutout innings in a 4-0 shutout win over the Pirates

After getting run out of Boston, losing all 4 games, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Pittsburgh and were looking to snap a 5- game skid. The Blue Jays swept the season series last season, outscoring the Pirates 12-4. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varso was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Santiago Espinal got the start at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #33 Toronto Blue Jays (18-14) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (20-12)

 

Game #32 - Toronto Blue Jays (18-14) @ Boston Red Sox (19-14) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was 2-4 with 2RBI and a run scored in a losing effort as the Red Sox defeated the Blue Jays 11-5

Another a third straight loss to the Red Sox, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4-game skid and avoid their 1st series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B and Brandon Belt served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #32 Toronto Blue Jays (18-13) @ Boston Red Sox (18-14)

 

Game #31 - Toronto Blue Jays (18-13) @ Boston Red Sox (18-14) - game recap

 

Daulton Varson hit a solo HR in a losing effort as the Red Sox came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 5-3

After another tough late-game loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their second series loss of the season. Ace Alek Manoah got the start with Alejando Kirk behind the plate. Matt Chapman got the half day off as DH with Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 2nd series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Daulton Varsho bashed a solo blast to right and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. annihiliated a solo bomb to left and over the green monster, right out of Fenway Park 
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Jarren Duran doubled scoring Rafael Devers 
• A batter later, Triston Casas singled home Duran
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 5th as Kevin Kiermaier scored on a balk charged to Nick Pivetta
• The Red Sox tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Casas singled scoring Masataka Yoshida
• A batter later, Enmanuel Valdez singled scoring Justin Turner and Duran
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 5IP 8H 5R (2 earned) 1BB 3K 103 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Yoshida singled home Conner Wong 
• Nick Pivetta pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 6K 94 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Yoshiga doubled scoring Enrique Hernandez
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Hernandez singled home Casas
  
• Final score: Red Sox 8 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Alek Manoah had another start to forget. giving up five runs (2 earned) on 8 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. He didn't help his cause with a bad throw and a wild pitch that led to two of the runs eventally. There was also bad luck in the field on a 2-run single of Vlad's glove. Nonetheless, Manoah has not looked like himself this season, whether he is trying to play through an injury or is trying to adjust to the pitch clock and that is causing him to rush his delivery a bit.
• The bullpen gave up a further 3 runs on 7 hits while walking three and striking out three over the last 3 innings. Trevor Richards walked all three of the batters. Clearly bullpen upgrades need to be considered
• The Blue Jays offense tacked on a pair of early runs off Red Sox starter Nick Pivetta and later scored a run when a balk was charged to Pivetta 
• Not much happened with the bats after the 6th inning with just two base runners, although Alejandro Kirk did have a 12-pitch at-bat before grounding out 
• The Blue Jays were 0-5 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the 4 game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season. Kevin Gausman starts against Red Sox righty Brayan Bello

Game #31 Toronto Blue Jays (18-12) @ Boston Red Sox (17-14)

 

Game #30 - Toronto Blue Jays (18-12) @ Boston Red Sox (17-14) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 3-run HR in a losing effort as the Red Sox came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-6

After a heartbreaking walk-off loss to the Red Sox last night, the Blue Jays were trying to snap a 2-game skid. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Alejandro Kirk served as DH tonight). Could the Blue Jays snap the two-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Christian Arroyo belted a solo jack over the green monster in left-center 
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Rob Refsnyder singled scoring Alex Verdugo. Refsnyder was thrown out at 2nd base trying to stretch the single into a double 
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Masataka Yoshida hammered a solo bomb to straightaway center 
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Danny Jansen and Kevin Kiermaier 
• A batter later, Bo Bichette scored on a passed ball charged to Red Sox catcher Conner Wong 
• A batter after that, Daulton Varsho drilled a three-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Guerrero Jr. and Matt Chapman
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the imning as Refsnyder singled home Verdugo
• Three batters later, Yoshida singled scoring Justin Turner
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 4.1IP 9H 5R (all earned) 0BB 2K 93 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Tanner Houck pitching line: 6IP 6H 6R (all earned) 3BB 5K 96 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Red Sox tied the game in the bottom of the 6th as Wong smashed a solo jack just over the green monster in left
• The Red Sox retook the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Wong belted a solo blast over the green monster in left
• Josh Winckowski pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Red Sox 7 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

• The bad Yusei Kikuchi was on the mound tonight, giving up 5 runs on 9 hits while walking none and striking out 2. Simply put, Kikukchi did not have his best stuff tonight. The Red Sox kept chipping away tacking on runs in innings 2-6, taking Kikuchi deep twice
• The bullpen continues go through a rough patch. Erik Swanson took the loss with Connor Wong going yard on him to give the Red Sox a late lead 
• The offense had a big inning in the 5th inning, putting 6 runs on the board, capped off by a 3-run HR from Daulton Varsho. They more or less went quietly after that inning with just 2 base runnes in the final 3 innings 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their second series loss of the season. Ace Alek Manoah starts against Red Sox righty Nick Pivetta