Game #27 - Los Angeles Dodgers (17-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-14) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a solo HR in a losing effort as the Dodgers routed the Blue Jays 12-2

After a rain-shortened loss yesterday to the Royals, the Blue Jays limped home and opened a weekend set against the LA Dodgers. The series will feature Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, who signed baseball's richest deal and stealthily deferred the vast majority of it to the end of the deal. It will be interesting to see how Blue Jays fans greet Ohtani, who was said to be on a plane to Toronto, only to announce the record deal with the Dodgers on his instagram page the next day. The Blue Jays won the 2023 season against the Dodgers 2-1, outscoring the Dodgers 21-12. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Addison Barger was in LF and IKF got the start at the hot corner. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the weekend with a win? Here is tonught's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Shohei Ohtani whacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 3rd as Freddie Freeman singled scoring Mookie Betts
• A batter later, Will Smith singled scoring Ohtani
• A batter later, Max Muncy hammered a 3-run bomb to right; Also scoring Freeman and Smith
• Four batters later, Gavin Lux singled home Teoscar Hernandez
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 2.2IP 9H 7R (all earned) 3BB 4K 77 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 4th as Smith smacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen\
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Danny Jansen drilled a solo jack to left
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 5th as Betts doubled scoring Andy Pages
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 6th as Muncy singled scoring Smith. Cavan Biggio was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Three batters later, Muncy scored on a sac fly by Pages
• Gavin Stone pitching line: 7IP 2H 1R (earned) 2BB 2K 94 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored Biggio
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 9th on a sac fly by Smith that scored Miguel Rojas 
• Final score: Dodgers 12 Blue Jays 2

 My Take:

• Chris Bassitt was lit up for 7 runs on 9 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4 over just 2.2 innings. Shohei Ohtani taking Bassitt yard (more on that later) seemed to set the tone for the game and the rest of Bassitt's start today. He simply wasn't fooling the Dodgers hitters. The season for Basstt has not exactly been what 2023 was for him. Bassitt was lit up in his first start of the season last year and followed that rough start up with 4 consecutive quality starts and 3 wins. He struggled through 5 innings his first 2 starts this season, pitched three straight quality starts and then ran into tonight's disaster. The Blue Jays need Bassitt to figure it out because there are major injury and performance concerns in AAA with Rickey Tiederman potentially done for the year with an elbow injury and Alek Manoah has certainly not earned another shot at the big leagues.
• The bullpen gave up a further 5 runs on 10 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 6.1 innings. There were no sucesses for any of the relievers. There has to be concern about the health of Erik Swanson, who received a visit from trainer Jose Ministral
• Back to the martyr of the night, Shohei Ohtani, who must be thanking his lucky stars that he picked the Dodgers over the Blue Jays in free agency. The team he was facing tonight very much resembled the one he left in free agency tonight, a lone offensive highlight (solo HR by Danny Jansen) followed by mostly disappointment from the rest of the lineup. Time and time again, year after year, Ohtani endured being the star in Anaheim and one of the lone offensive threats. He clearly wanted to experience success after never making the playoffs once in 6 tries with the Angels. It must have felt so good to shut up the Blue Jays fans by going deep in the 1st inning.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid  and avoid their 4th series loss of the season and their 1st season series loss. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Dodgers righty Tyler Glasnow 

Game #27 Los Angeles Dodgers (16-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-13)

Game #26 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-13) @ Kansas City Royals (16-10) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit an RBI single in a 5-inning, rain-shortened 2-run loss to the Royals

After a 2nd straight 3-2 loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap a 2-game skid and escape KC with a series split. A day after losing Kevin Kiermaier to the 10-day IL due to left hip flexor inflammation (allowing utility man Addison Barger to make his big league debut in LF), the Blue Jays lost reliever Bowden Francis to the 15-day IL with right forearm extensor tendinitis. Lefty Brendon Little was recalled from AAA-ball. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Justin Turner was back as DH after an off-day yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and earn the series split.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Salvador Perez hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Vinnie Pasquantino
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 4th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Justin Turner
• Cole Ragans pitching line: CG 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 76 pitches (46 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: CG 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 1K 67 pitches (45 for strikes)
• Final score: Royals 2 Blue Jays 1 (5 innings due to rain)

My Take:

• And the quality start streak for Jose Berrios is over thanks to mother nature intervening. Berrios is having a remarkable start to the season with 4 wins in 5 starts, 5 quality starts (pitched minimum 6 innings, allowing 3 or less earned runs), a 0.85 ERA and 1.011 WHIP. Tonight, Berrios gave up a 2-run in the 1st inning. He gave up a further 2 walks and hits over the last 4 innings and struck out a batter. He retired 9 of the last 10 batters he faced.
• Davis Schneider was the only Blue Jays batter to reach base multiple times, drawing 2 walks
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays limp home, literally and figuratively, to open a 3-game series against the team with the highest expectations in baseball, the LA Dodgers. The series will feature Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, who signed baseball's richest deal and stealthily deferred the vast majority of it to the end of the deal. It will be interesting to see how Blue Jays fans greet Ohtani, who was said to be on a plane to Toronto, only to announce the record deal with the Dodgers on his instagram page the next day. The Blue Jays won the 2023 season against the Dodgers 2-1, outscoring the Dodgers 21-12. Chris Bassitt starts against Dodgers righty Gavin Stone.

Game #26 Toronto Blue Jays (13-12) @ Kansas City Royals (15-10)

 

Game #25 Toronto Blue Jays (13-11) @ Kansas City Royals (14-10)

 

Game #24 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-11) @ Kansas City Royals (14-10) - game recap

 

Justin Turner scored a run and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Royals came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 3-2

After a solid win last night, thanks to clutch hits from Bo Bichette and Daulton Varsho and stellar pitching from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to two games. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blur Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Justin Turner singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Turner
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a missed catch error by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a ball hit by Kyle Isbel that scored Michael Massey
• Two batters later, Bobby Witt Jr. doubled scoring Isbel and Maikel Garcis
• Michael Wacha pitching line: 4IP 8H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 96 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 7H 3R (none earned) 1BB 2K 99 pitches (65 for strikes)
• James MacArthur got the last 6 outs for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Royals 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6.2 innings, giving up 3 unearned runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. Vlad owes him an apology dinner after he missed a catch that should have ended the inning. Instead a run scored on the play and two batters later, the Royals had a one run lead. Gausman has been pitching better lately after a rough first few starts of the season
• The bullpen gave up a hit in the last 1.1 innings. Tim Mayza is also looking better his last few relief appearances
• Kevin Kiermaier left the game with left hip flexor discomfort. Given his injury history with the hip, expect the Blue Jays ro be cautious with him.
• Offensively, Justin Turner did the damage driving in a run and scoring another. Turner has been the Blue Jays best hitter by far.
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to retake the series lead. Yariel Rodriguez starts against Royals righty Alec Marsh

Game #24 Toronto Blue Jays (13-10) @ Kansas City Royals (13-10)

Game #23 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-10) @ Kansas City Royals (13-10) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 3-run triple in a 5-3 win over the Royals

After a tough loss yesterday thanks to subpar performances from relievers Trevor Richards and Nate Pearson, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win as they continued the road trip in Kansas City. The Blue Jays win 6 of the 7 games in last year's season series, outscoring the Royals 33-20. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier got the full day off with Daulton Varsho in CF and Davis Schneider in LF. IKF was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio in 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Bo Bichette tripled scoring Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Cavan Biggio and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the th as Daulton Varsho drilled a 2-run jack to right; also scoring Justin Turner
• The Royals got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Maikel Garcia hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Dairon Blanco
• Brady Singer pitching line: 6IP 5H 5R (all earned) 3BB 5K 107 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 4K 81 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Kyle Isbel annihilated a solo bomb off the right foul pole
• Jordan Romano got the last 3 outs for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Royals 3

My Take:-run 

• Yusei Kikuchi was excellent again, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over 6 innings.There has to be some concern about his health. For the second straight start, Kikuchi received a visit from trainer Jose Ministral. Kikuchi finished the inning, but did not start the 7th inning, even though he had thrown just 81 pitches. He cruised through the first 5 innings, giving up just one hit and needing just 48 pitches. By contrast, he threw 33 pitches in the 6th inning, and gave up 2 runs on 4 hits. Hopefully whatever is ailing him is minor, but the Blue Jays should make him skip a start if he is injured. The Blue Jays have enough pitchers dealing with injuries with 3 of their top prospects potentially heading for tommy john surgery
• All three relievers gave up a hit and struck out a batter in their inning of work. Jordan Romano's hit against left the ball park. It was very encouraging to see Erik Swanson have a relatively stress free inning
• Daulton Varsho and Bo Bichette were the offensive heroes tonight with both getting bases clearing hits. Bichette hit a triple in the 3rd inning for 3 runs, Varsho went yard for the 6th time in 10 games in the 6th inning.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Davis Schneider and George Springer reached base and all but Springer, Schneider and Justin Turner had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for two straight wins. Kevin Gausman starts against Royals righty Michael Wacha

Game #23 Toronto Blue Jays (12-10) @ Kansas City Royals (13-9)

Game #22 - Toronto Blue Jays (12-10) @ San Diego Padres (12-12) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider hit a solo HR and drove in a second run in a losing effort as the Padres came from behind to double up the Blue Jays 6-3

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After a solid win by the Blue Jays thanks to a three-run HR and key insurance run from the red-hot Daulton Varsho, as well as lights out pitching from ace Jose Berrios and closer Jordan Romano, the Blue Jays were going for their 3rd straight win and 1st series sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to three games and complete their first sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Padres opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Manny Machado singled scoring Jake Cronenworth. George Springer was charged with a fielding error on the play
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 2nd as Davis Schneider belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 3rd as Ernie Clement hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Padres tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Xander Bogaerts whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Padres took the lead in the bottom of the 6th on a bases loaded walk to Luis Campusano that forced in Jurickson Profar
• A batter later, Ha-Seong Kim scored on a catcher's interference call against Danny Jansen on a ball hit by Tyler Wade
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.1 IP 6H 4R (3 earned) 3BB 4K 93 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a ground out hit by Schneider that scored Justin Turner
• Joe Musgrowe pitching line: 7IP 5H 3R 0BB 3K 99 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Padres added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Bogaerts that forced in Profar
• A batter later, Kim scored on a sac fly by Fernando Tatis Jr.
• Robert Suarez pitched a scoreless 9th for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Padres 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5.1 innings, giving up 4 runs (3 earned,  and 2 after he left the ball game) on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. He got himself out of a bases loaded jam in the 1st inning by picking off Jurickson Profar at 2nd base. That started a streak of five straight outs that ended when Xander Bogaerts took him yard in the 3rd inning. Bassitt got fortunate to escape a second bases loaded jam in the 5th inning when Davis Schneider made a great leaping grab on a liner that had two runs written all over it. Unfortunately, Trevor Richards allowed both inherited runners to score. It seems like this then through the rotation will feature starters battling to pitch with less than their best stuff. 
• The bullpen was unable to do its job today.  It started with Trevor Richards allowing both inherited runners to score when he gave up two walks. To be fair,  he should have been out of the inning with just a one run deficit but Danny Jansen got a bit too close to the batter and was called for catcher interference. Nate Pearson was fortunate this one didn't turn into a blowout. After he walked in a run,  Pearson left a pitch right down the middle and Fernando Tatis Jr. just missed a grand slam. Instead, it went for a loud out and an easy sac fly. Pearson and Richards walked a  combined 6 batters over the last 2.2 innings. Both the threw over 30 pitches and likely won't be available for the series opener in Kansas City tomorrow
• Davis Schneider was the offensive hero today, driving in two, including himself on a solo HR. Ernie Clement gave the Blue Jays a brief lead in the 2nd inning with a no-doubter. After that home run, ten of the next twelve Blue Jays were retired and Musgrowe faced the minimum in that time span thanks to Bo Bichette getting caught stealing and Vlad hitting into an inning ending double play
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Kansas City. The Blue Jays win 6 of the 7 games in last year's season series, outscoring the Royals 33-20. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Royals righty Brady Singer.

Game #22 Toronto Blue Jays (12-9) @ San Diego Padres (11-12)

 

Game #21 - Toronto Blue Jays (12-9) @ San Diego Padres (11-12) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 3-run HR in the 1st innung and later scored an insurance run to lead the Blue Jays to a 5-2 win over the Pardres

After a solid win yesterday thanks to 4-run 2nd inning and a solid pitching performance from Yariel Rodriguez, the Blue Jays were going for two straight wins, their 3rd series win and 2nd season series win/. The Blue Jays traded Mitch White, who was DFA'd a few days ago, to the San Francisco Giants for cash consideration. White ends his Blue Jays career with a 1-6  record and a 7.26 ERA in 24 games (8 starts) over parts of three seasons. Nate Pearson was recalled with Chad Green headed to the 15-day IL with a right teres major strain. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after a complete daty off yesterday. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 3rd series win and 2nd season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsho drilled a 3- run bomb to right; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.  and Bo Bichette
• Padres LF Jurickson Profar and Padres manager Mike Shildt were both ejected at the end of the 1st inning after Rofar was tossed for an angry outburst where he threw his bat to the ground after being rung up on a borderline strike.  
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd on a wild pitch by Randy Vasquez that scored Kevin Kiermaier
• Randy Vasquez pitching line: 5IP 5H 4R (1 earned) 1BB 3K 97 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 5H 0R 2BB 6K 91 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Padres got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a ground out hit by Xander Bogaerts that scored Luis Campusano
• The Padres got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Ha-Seong Kim singled scoring Jose Azocar
• The Bue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Varsho
• Jordan Romano threw a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Padres 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios not at his best is still the best pitcher in the game bar none. He threw 6 shutout innings tonight, giving up 5 hits and walking 2 while striking out 6. He got out off three separate jams with multiple base runners on, including the 5th inning when the Padres had the bases loaded with 2 outs. Berrios retired seven in a row at one point. He's been the team's best pitcher by far. 
• The bullpen had some mixed results. Genesis Cabrera was only able to retire one of the three batters he faced and ceded a run.Yimi Garcia and Jordan Romano were both excellent, retiring every batter they faced. Erik Swanson got into a jam and had a run scored on him on 3 hits. Swanson and Romano are both fresh off the IL and Romano looks like he is getting back in form, while Swanson is trying to work through some things.
• Daulton Varsho remains red hot. He gave the Blue Jays an early lead in the 1st inning, going yard to right for three runs. He later scored to add a key insurance run. Here's hoping he's not this season's Matt Chapman (the ex-Blue Jays third baseman is notorious for hitting well in April, not not so much in the other months of  the season) Vlad was the only other Blue Jay with multiple hits tonight
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 1st sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Padres righty Joe Musgrove

Game #21 Toronto Blue Jays (11-9) @ San Diego Padres (11-11)

Game #20 Toronto Blue Jays (10-9) @ San Diego Padres (11-10)

Game #19 - New York Yankees (13-6) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-9) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a pair of HR for three runs in a losing effort as the Yankees came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 6-4

After a solid win yesterday thanks to some timely hitting by Vlad, timely baserunning by IKF and stellar pitching from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 5 straight wins and complte their 1st series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner, while Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 5 straight wins and complete their 1st sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #19 New York Yankees (12-6) vs Toronto Blue Jays (10-8)

 

Game #18 - New York Yankees (12-6) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-8) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a pair of runs in a 5-4 comeback win over the Yankees

After a solid win yesterday thanks to the the offensive efforts of Alejandro Kirk and stellar pitching, the Blue Jays were looking for their 4th straight win and 3rd series win of the season. Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson were reinstated from the 15-day IL. Mitch White was DFA'd and Nate Pearson was optioned back to AAA-ball to make room on the roster. It may be the end of the road for White as a Blue Jay. If so, he finishes his Blue Jay career wuth a 1-6 record and a 7.26ERA in 24 games (8 starts) over parts of 3 seasons. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate, who was making his regular season debut after coming off the IL yesterday. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Ernie Clement got the start at the hot corner and Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins and 3 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap

Game #18 New York Yankees (12-5) vs Toronto Blue Jays (9-8)

 

Game #17 - New York Yankees (12-5) @ Toronto Blue Jays (9-8) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk scored a run and drove in a run in a 3-1 come-from-behind win over the Yankees

After a solid weekend set against the Rockies, the Blue Jays were looking to make it three straight wins as the Bronx Bombers rolled into town for a three-game series to wrap up the first homestand of the season. The Yankees took two of three from the Blue Jays a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 17-14. Danny Jansen was activated from the 10-day IL and Brian Serven was optioned back to AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in LF, Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #17 New York Yankees (12-4) vs Toronto Blue Jays (8-8)

 

Game #16 - Colorado Rockies (4-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-8) - game recap

 

Justin Turner drover in three runs in a 5-0 shutout win over the Rockies

After a solid in thanks to a 5-run effort in the 1st inning by the offence yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win, 2nd series win and 1st season series win of 2024. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was back in CF after a day off yesterday. Justin Turner served as DH. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins, 2 series win and a season series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Justin Turner singled scoring George Springer.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Kevin Kiermaier 
• Two batters later, Turner doubled home Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Turner singled scoring Springer
• Kyle Freeland pitching line: 5IP 7H 4R (all earned) 2BB 3K 95 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 2H 0R 2BB 7K 100 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Ernie Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rockies 0

My Take:

• Jose Berrios was excellent today, throwing seven shutout innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 walks and striking out 7 (he also hit a couple of batters). Berros has established himself as the Blue Jays best starter. He is also one of the best pitches in the game period and should be a contender for the Cy Young award if he continues his dominance - three wins, three quality starts.
• The bullpen threw 2 shutout innings and Nate Pearson struck out the side in the 9th
• Offensively, Justin Turner did the damage, driving in three runs. By far, he was the best signing by the Blue Jays to date.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Davis Schneider had a hit 
• The Blue Jays were 5-13 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for three straight wins. The Yankees took two of three from the Blue Jays a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 17-14. Chris Bassitt gets the start against Yankees righty Luis Gil

Game #16 Colorado Rockies (4-11) vs Toronto Blue Jays (7-8)

 

Game #15 - Colorado Rockies (4-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (7-8) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a grand slam in a 5-3 win over the Rockies

After a disasatrous game yesterday thanks to ugly pitching, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid.. Cuban import Yariel Rodriguez was recalled from AAA-ball and became the first Cuban-born pitcher to start an MLB game (Righty Paolo Espino was optioned to AAA-ball) with Brian Serven behind the plate. Daniel Vogelbach served as DH. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays even the series, snap the 2-game skid and set up a rubber match Sunday? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a bases loaded walk to Davis Schneider that forced in George Springer
• A batter later, Daulton Varsho hammered a grand slam to right-center and into the Rockies bullpen; also scoring Schneider, Bo Bichette and Daniel Vogelbach
• The Rockies got one back in the top of the 3rd as Brenton Doyle smashed a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 3.2IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 6K 68 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Rockies got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Brendan Rodgers singled scoring Elias Diaz and Nolan Jones
• Dakota Hudson pitching line: 6IP 5H 5R (all earned) 3BB 5K 102 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Yimi Garcia threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rockies 3

My Take

• Yariel Rodriguez gave up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over 3.2 innings. e was perfect in the 1st inning and got into a bit of a jam in the 2nd inning, which he escaped. Third inning, he was taken deepand walked a batter before escaping the inning. One concern is he has a personality similar to Manoah. He needs to let his play do the talking.
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 5.1 innings. It was really encouraging to see Tim Mayza have a clean inning.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays took advantage of a shaky Dakota Hudson, putting 5 runs on the board in the 1st inning, capped off by a Daulton Varsho grand slam.
• Every Blue Jays starter but Brian Serven reached base at least once
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 2 games and notch their 2nd series win and first season series win. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Rockies righty Kyle Freeland

Game #15 Colorado Rockies (4-10) vs Toronto Blue Jays (6-8)

 

Game #14 - Colorado Rockies (4-10) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-8) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a solo HR in a losing effort as the Rockies came from behind to rout the Blue Jays 12-4

After an off day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the home stand with a weekend set against the Rockies, their first National League opponent of the season. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Rockies 2-1, outscoring the Rockies 27-22. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plste. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blsue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Cavan Biggio singled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Rockies tied it up in the top of the 2nd as Brendan Rodgers doubled scoring Elias Diaz
• The Blue jays retook the lead in it the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho whacked a solo blast to right
• The Rockies tied it up in the top of the 3rd as Ryan McMahon doubled scoring Ezequiel Tovar
• Two batters later Diaz singled home McMahon
• A batter later Nolan Jones doubled scoring Diaz
• The Rockies added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Kris Bryant doubled scoring Brenton Doyle and McMahon
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 3.2IP 10H 6R (all earned) 0BB 4K 78 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Rockies added a run in the top of the 5th as Jones hammered a solo bomb to right
• Ryan Feltner pitching line: 5IP 8H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 94 pitches (60 for strikes
• The Rockies added a run in the top of the 6th a Torvar drilled a solo jack to left
• The Rockies added a run in the top of the 7th as Doyle doubled scoring Rodgers
• A batter later, Michael Toglia scored on a sac fly by Tovar
• The Rockies added a run in the top of the 9th on a sac fly by Jake cave that scored Rodgers
• Three batters later, McMahon doubled home Doyle
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Isiah Kiner-Falefa went yard to left-center
• Final score: Rockies 12 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• For the third straight game,  embattled Blue Jays ace Kevin Gausman was roughed up as he continues to try and find for his form after an abbreviated spring training due to a shoulder injury. Tonight, Gausman was lit up for 6 runs on 10 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over 3.2 innings.  It speaks volumes about the Blue Jays lack of depth for starting pitching. At this point, they can trust Jose beeps Berrios, who has been the Blue Jays best and most consistent pitcher and lefty Yusei Kikuchi, woo has also been solid and added a changeup to his bevy of pitches. Chris Bassitt has been average so far and bowden Francis, who was stretched out to be a starter this season after being a reliever his whole career. Alek Manoah is on a rehab assignment, but has been a disaster in every appearance this season. Manoah needs to earn his way back to the majors and shouldn't just be handed the job based on past performance in 2021 and 2022. Rickey Tiederman could be an option sooner than later.  Don't be surprised if Gausman heads back to the IL when Danny Jansen, Erik Swanson and Jordan Romano return from their IL stunts because something is clearly off with him and very likely physically. 
• The bullpen didn't fare much better today, giving up a further 6 runs on 10 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5 over the last 5.1 innings. Genesis Cabrera was the only pitcher to retire every batter he faced. 
• Offensively, believe it or not, three Blue Jays managed to take the lead twice.  Unlikely sources provided the offense today. Cavan Biggio got a base hit to drive in Bo Bichette.  Daulton Varsho and Isiah Kiner-Falefa each went deep for a run each. For Kiner-Falefa, it was his first HR in a Blue Jays uniform
• Every Blue Jays starter except Alejandro Kirk reached at least once and all but Kirk and Vladimir Guerrero Jr had a hit
• You know things are going bad when Kevin Kiermaier misses a catch that goes for a triple
• The Blue jays were 1-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2- game skid and avoid their 3rd series loss and 1st season series loss. Yariel Rodriguez makes his big league debut against Rockies righty Dakota Hudson

Game #14 Colorado Rockies (3-10) vs Toronto Blue Jays (6-7)

 

Game #13 - Seattle Mariners (5-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-7) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 6.2 strong innings in a 6-1 loss to the Mariners

After another solid win over the Mariners thanks to  some clutch hitting, including a 2-run jack from Bo Bichette and 6.2 strong innings from Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their first series sweep of the seeason. The Blue Jays traded righty Wes Parsons to the Cleveland Guardians for International Signing Bonus Pool Space. Parsons made 2 appearances this season for the Blue Jays and gave up 6 runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over 5 innings. He was DFA'd April 4. Back to today's game. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in LF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and complete their 1st sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #13 Seattle Mariners (4-8) vs Toronto Blue Jays (6-6)

Game #12 - Seattle Mariners (4-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-6) - game recap

 

Bo Bichete hit a 2-run HR in a 5-3 win over the Mariners

After a solid win thanks to 6.2 shutout innings from Jose Berrios and some timely hitting, the Blue Jays were going for their 1st series win and first multi-game win streak. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 1st series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as George Springer singled scoring Daulton Varsho (this was made possible due to a disengagement violation that put Springer on 2B
• Two batters later, Bo Bichette hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left-centerl; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Cavan Biggio 
• Two batters later, Springer singled home Kiner-Falefa
• Kirby George pitching line: 4IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 3K 87 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the top of the 7th as Dominic Canzone whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left-center
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6.2 IP 5H 1R (earned) 4BB 8K 115 pitches (72 for strikes)
• The Mariners got a pair back in the top of the 8th as Mitch Haniger whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left; also scoring Julio Rodriguez
• Chad Green got the last 4 outs for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Mariners 3

y  Take:

• Chris Bassitt had his best start of the season, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 8. The lone run he gave up was in his final inning. It is interesting that John Schneider and co. are letting the starters pttch deeper in games. A lack of trust in the bullpen may be a factor. Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson can't come back soon enough.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs (given up on a 2-run HR by Trevor Richards) on 1 hit while walking 2 and striking out none over the last 2.1 innings. The team is definitely missing Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson. The bullpen has been forced to play out of their optimal roles with the Blue Jays closer and primary setup man rehabbing injuries. Swanson is a bit ahead of Romano, having pitched an inning in Single A a couple of days ago.
• The offence jumped on Mariners starter George Kirby, scoring 5 runs on him through 4 innings on 8 hits. George Springer drove in a pair and Bo Bichette went yard for 2 runs.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 3rd straight win and to complete their 1st series sweep of the season. Yusei Kikuchi faces his former team. The Mariners will counter with righty Logan Gilbert.

Game #12 Seattle Mariners (4-7) vs Toronto Blue Jays (5-6)

 

Game #11 - Seattle Mariners (4-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (5-6) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 6.2 shutout innings in a 5-2 win over their expansion cousins, the Seattle Mariners in their2024 home opener at the newly renovated Rogers' Centre

After a tough ten game road trip that saw a mostly subpar offence,  2 series losses and a miraculous series split, the Blue Jays limped home to begin the home portion of their schedule against expansion cousins Seattle Mariners. The Blue Jays come home to the completed renovation project that included improved menu items, more comfortable seats with cup holders and more. The players will have a better training facility and family/friends of the players will see an improved place to hang out while their spouses/fathers play ball. The Mariners and Blue Jays split the season series with the Mariners outscoring the Blue Jays 27-26. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the two game skid and start the home portion of the schedule with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #11 Seattle Mariners (4-6) vs Toronto Blue Jays (4-6)

 

Game #10 - Toronto Blue Jays (4-6) @ New York Yankees (8-2) - game recap

 

Vladimmimr Guerrero Jr. scored a run and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Blue Jays fell to the Yankees 8-3

After a Valient effort last night that fell just short, the Blue Jays were looking for their first series win of the season. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  George Springer got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays end the road trip with their first series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #10 Toronto Blue Jays (4-5) @ New York Yankees (7-2)

Game #9 - Toronto Blue Jays (4-5) @ New York Yankees (7-2) - game recap

 

Justin Turner scored twice and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Yankees held on to edge the Blue Jays 9-8

After a miraculous 3-0 shutout win to ruin the Yankees home opener thanks thanks to stellar pitching, a clutch pinch hit home run from Ernie Clement and two insurance runs off wild pitches in the 9th, the Blue Jays were looking for their 1st multi-game win streak and 1st series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with backup catcher Brian Serven behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was back in CF after being a late scratch yesterday due to lower back spasms.That put Daulton Varsho back in left field. Justin Turner was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Daniel Vogelbach served as DH.  Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 1st series win of the season? Here is tonight's game  recap.

Game Highights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Aaron Judge hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Juan Soto
• A batter later, Giancarlo Stanton whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center and just over the wall
• The Yankees added a run in the bottom of the 2nd on a sac fly by Gleyber torres that scored Anthony Volpe
• A batter later, Austin Wells scored on a wild pitch by Kevin Gausman
• Same batter, Soto singled home Oswaldo Cabrera
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 1.1IP 4H 6R (5 earned) 2BB 0K 51 pitches (29 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 3rd on a sac fly by Justin Turner that scored Kevin Kiermaier.
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 4th on a fielder's choice hit by Kiermaier that scored Ernie Clement
• Clarke Schmidt pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 91 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Yankees added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Anthony Rizzo whacked a 2-run Jack just inside the right foul pole: also scoring Judge
• The Yankees added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Soto singled scoring Torres
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• Three batters later, Daniel Vogelbach doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Turner scored on a sac fly by Clement
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Davis Schneider doubled scoring Turner
• A batter later, Clement scored on a groundout hit by Alejandro Kirk
• A batter after that,  Cavan Biggio singled home Schneider
• Clay Holmes got the last two outs for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Yankees 9 Blue Jays 8

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman had a rough start tonight, giving up 6 runs (5 earned thanks to a wild pitch) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out none.  The bigger concern has to be that his velocity was down a tick today.  Gausman was going to be on a restricted pitch count tonight since he wasn't fully stretched out. Now the question has to be if he is healthy. There's no question the Blue Jays will monitor how he is feeling tomorrow. He had his pitching arm wrapped up between innings in the top of the 2nd.  Then again, a lot of pitchers do that.
• The bullpen gave up three runs (all charged to mitch White) on 6 hits while walking 5 and striking out 5 over 6.2 innings. The Blue Jays may need to call someone up in case tomorrow's starter, Bowden Francis, struggles against an equally potent lineup to the one he faced in Houston. 
• That was an encouraging effort by the offense that fell just short of coming all the way back in spite of the big hole the pitching put the Blue Jays in.  
• Every Blue Jays starter except Daulton Varsho reached base at least once and all but Varsho and Brian Serven had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 4-17 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their first series win of the season.  Bowden Francis starts against Yankees righty Luis Gil

Game #9 Toronto Blue Jays (4-4) @ New York Yankees (6-2)

 

Game #8 - Toronto Blue Jays (4-4) @ New York Yankees (6-2) - game recap

Ernie Clement hit a clutch go ahead HR in the top of the 7th of a 3-0 shutout win

 

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a weekend series against the Yankees, who won the season series 4-3, but the Blue Jays outscored the Yankees 47-37. Wes Parsons was DFA'd with righty Paolo Espino getting the call-up. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was a late scratch with lower back spasms so Daulton Varsho got the start in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays ruin the Yankees home opener and get back to .500? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #8 Toronto Blue Jays (3-4) @ New York Yankees (6-1)

Game #7 - Toronto Blue Jays (3-4) @ Houston Astros (2-5) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho got the only hit for the Blue Jays in an 8-0 shutout loss to the Astros

After a huge comeback win on the backs of a clutch go-ahead HR from Davis "Babe" Schneider, the Blue Jays were going for their first multi-game win streak and first series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in LF and Kevin Kiermaier in CF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio was at 2nd base. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their first series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #7 Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) @ Houston Astros (1-5)

 

Game #6 - Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) @ Houston Astros (1-5) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider hit a clutch 2-run HR with the Blue Jays down to their last strike in a 2-1 come-from-behind win over the Astros

After a horrendous showing yesterday in a 10-0 no-hit loss, the Blue Jays were looking to bounce back and continue their trend of winning one, losing one, etc. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup at SS after missing the last couple of days with neck spasms. Ernie Clement remained in the lineup and was at the hot corner tonight. Davis Schneider got the start in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #6 Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Houston Astros (1-4)

 

Game #5 - Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Houston Astros (1-4) - game recap

 

George Springer drew a pair of walks and was the only Blue Jay to reach base in a 10-0 no-hit shutout to the Astros

After wrapping up the season opening series in Tampa Bay with a respectable series split, the Blue Jays moved onto Houston to take on the Astros as they continued their 10 game road trip to start the season. The Astros will be a hungry team after gettig swept at home to the surging Yankees. The Blue Jays won the season series last yea 4-2, but the Astros outscored the Blue Jays 35-22. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plat. Bo Bichette is still dealing with a stiff neck and was out of the lineup with Ernie Clement at SS. George Springer was back in the field after a half day off as DH yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays get their first multi-game win streak of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #5 Toronto Blue Jays (2-2) @ Houston Astros (0-4)

 

Game #4 - Toronto Blue Jays (2-2) @ Tampa Bay Rays (2-2) - game recap

Justin Turner drove in 4 runs and scored twice, finishing a triple shy of the cycle in a 9-2 rout over the Rays

After a second straight loss to the Rays on a mediocre start from Yusei kKikuchi, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 2-game skid and escape Tampa Bay with a series split.  Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer gor the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio in RF.  Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at 2B. SS Bo Bichette was a late scratch with neck spasms. Ernie Clement started at SS instead.  Justin Turner was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and escape Tampa Bay with a series split? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Justin Turner singled scoring George Springer
• Two batters later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Rays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Randy Arozarena belted a solo jack to the opposite field in right-center
• Shawn Armstrong pitching line: 1IP 3H 2R (1 earned) 1BB 1K 26 pitches (16 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 2nd as Turner doubled scoring Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Springer)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Turner hammered a solo bomb to left
• Two batters later,  Davis Schneider smacked a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 4.1IP 2H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 69 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th on a fielder's choice hit by Clement that scored Turner. Rays SS Jose Caballero was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later,  
• Cavan Biggio singled home Clement
• The Rays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Isaac Paredes whacked a solo blast to left
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Rays 2

 My Take:

• Kevin Gausman made his first start of the season 2-3 days later than expected after missing most of spring training with a cranky shoulder. In some ways, pitching him 4th in the rotation could be very advantageous for the Blue Jays since their opponent will likely be running out their 5th starteron the days Gausman starts.  It certainly turned out that way today.  Gausman was solid today, giving up a run on 2 hits while walking none and striking out 6 over 4.1 innings.  He was on a strict pitch limit since he didn't throw for a couple of weeks and wasn't fully stretched out to the 90-100'pitches he'll throw in a typical start.  
• The bullpen gave up a run on a hit while waking 2 and striking out none in the last 4.2 innings. Mitch White, who threw three shutout innings was credited with the win
• Justin Turner (Matt Chapman who?) absolutely dominated today's game. He drove in four runs, scored twice and finishes a triple shy of the cycle. Turner is proving there is still some pop in the old bat. 
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Daulton Varsho and Vladimir Guerrero Jr had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next,  the Blue Jays head west to start a three game series in Houston as they continue their ten game road trip to start the season as the Blue Jays wind up their t two year renovation project at the Roger's center. The Blue jays edged the Astros 4-3 in the season series last year, but the Astros outscored the Blue Jays 35-22. No doubt the Astros,  who were just swept at home by the mighty Yankees, will be a hungry team. Bowden Francis starts against Astros righty Ronel Blanco.

• Justin Turner absolutely dominated the game today (Matt Chapman who?) Driving in 4 runs and scoring twice. He's proving early that there's still some pop in that old bat. Maybe Joey Votto will do the same after he recovers from the ankle injury caused by stepping on a loose bat in the dugout after his first and only AB of spring training
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Daulton Varsho and Vladimir Guerrero Jr had at least one hit
• The Blue jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next,  the Blue Jays continue the 10-game road trip to start the season as the two year renovation project at the Roger's center winds down.  They start a three game set in Houston against the winless Astros, who were just swept at home by the mighty Yankees.  The Blue jays edged the Astros 4-3 in the season series last year,  but he the Astros outscored the Blue Jays 35-22. No doubt the Astros will be hungry, having just been swept by the mighty Yankees. Bowden Frances starts against Astros righty Ronel Franco.

Game #4 Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Tampa Bay Rays (2-1)

Game #3 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Tampa Bay Rays (2-1) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 5-1 loss to the Rays

After a beat down at the hands of the Rays, who got to Chris Bassitt and took advantage of some shoddy defense, the Blue Jays were looking to retake the series lead in the season opening series. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with backup catcher Brian Serven behind the plate. Daniel Vogelbach got the start at DH and was batting cleanup. Ernie Clement was at tbe hot corner. Could tbe Blue Jays bounce-back after a tough loss? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #3 Toronto Blue Jays (1-1) @ Tampa Bay Rays (1-1)

 

Game #2 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-1) @ Tampa Bay Rays (1-1) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a solo HR in an 8-2 loss to the Rays

After a convincing win over the Rays thanks to a big 6th inning and some solid pitching from Jose Berrios, the Blue Jays were looking to start the season with 2 straight wins. A won would guarantee them a series split in a stadium that has given them trouble in the past.  Chris Bassitt got the start with the Blue Jays fielding the same lineup as opening day yesterday.  Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #2 Toronto Blue Jays (1-0) @ Tampa Bay Rays (0-1)