NLCS New York Mets (2-3) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (3-2)

 

ALDS New York Yankees (3-1) v. Cleveland Guardians (1-3)

NLDS/ALDS Los Angeles Dodgers (3-1) v. New York Mets (1-3) and New York Yankees (2-1) v. Cleveland Guardians (1-2)

 

ALDS/NLDS New York Yankees (2-0) v. Cleveland Guardians (0-2) and Los Angeles Dodgers (2-1) v. New York Mets (1-2)

 

NLCS Los Angeles Dodgers (1-1) v. New York Mets (1-1)

 

ALDS Cleveland Guardians (0-1) v. New York Yankees (1-0)

 

NLDS/ALDS New York Mets (0-1) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (1-0) and Cleveland Guardians (0-0) v. New York Yankees (0-0)

 

NLCS New York Mets (0-0) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (0-0)

 

ALDS Detroit Tigers (2-2) v. Cleveland Guardians (2-2)

 

NLDS San Diego Padres (2-2) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (2-2)

 

ALDS Cleveland Guardians (1-2) v. Detroit Tigers (2-1) and New York Yankees (2-1) v. Kansas City Royals (1-2)

 

ALDS/NLDS Cleveland Guardians (1-1) v. Detroit Tigers (1-1), Philadelphia Phillies (1-2) v. New York Mets (2-1), New York Yankees (1-1) v. Kansas City Royals (1-1), Los Angeles Dodgers (1-2) v. San Diego Padres (2-1)

NLDS Philadelphia Phillies (1-1) v. New York Mets (1-1), Los Angeles Dodgers (1-1) v. San Diego Padres (1-1)

ALDS Detroit Tigers (0-1) v. Cleveland Guardians (1-0) and Kansas City Royals (0-1) v. New York Yankees (1-0)

 

NLDS New York Mets (1-0) v. Philadelphia Phillies (0-1), San Diego Padres (0-1) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (1-0)

 

ALDS/NLDS Detroit Tigers (0-0) v. Cleveland Guardians (0-0) New York Mets (0-0) v. Philadelphia Phillies (0-0) Kansas City Royals (0-0) v. New York Yankees (0-0) San Diego Padres (0-0) v. Los Angeles Dodgers (0-0)

 

Ten Random Thoughts: A review of the 2024 season and a look ahead to the off-season.

 

Finally, we have reached the end of the 2024 season, one that could be the end of an era. The final tale  of the tape: 17 series wins (4 series sweeps), 29 series losses (swept 5 times) and 4 series splits. The Blue Jays took a big gamble that 2023 was an anomaly and the team would be better offensively after shuffling the deck with the hitting coaches, making Don Mattingly offesive coordinator and adding some assistants alongside Guillermo Martinez. The team struck out in free agency on signing Shohei Ohtani (who opted to remain in the LA area, signing with the Dodgers) and also on trading for Juan Soto. Instead, they were banking on the players having bounceback years with the additions of Justin Turner and Isiah Kiner-Falefa). Unfortunately, that didn't come to fruition. Perhaps most surprisingly, Bo Bichette, the Blue Jays best and most consistent hitter, had perhaps the worst season of his careerm with career lows in most of the major statistical categories and a lost season where he only played 81 games due to a nagging calf issue. The pitching, which was masking the pitiful offense last year, regressed, both the starting pitching and the bullpen. There were some shining lights in a dim season (Bowden Francis was excellent the last 2 months of the season, including 2 no-hit bids that died in the 9th inning; Vlad had his best season since 2020, Ernie Clement was solid and Alejandro Kirk showed he can handle a bigger role behind the plate.) August 25th was a game that will go down in MLB history with Danny Jansen becoming the first player in history to play for both teams in the same game after the June 26 game was suspended in the top of the 2nd with Jansen at the plate and Jansen was subsequently traded at the deadline to the Red Sox.(Oh yeah, and Jansen batted for the Red Sox in the bottom half of the inning.) In this final random thoughts post of 2024, we'll look back at the season, changes that need to be made and more. Here are 10 random thoughts from around the MLB.

1. As per usual, let's start with the injuries and the impact they had on the season. The most significant injury was the pitching elbow with Alek Manoah undergoing Tommy John surgery, closer Jordan Romano  needing surgery to relieve nerve issues and prospect pitchers Brandon Barriera and Rickey Tiederman both underwent tommy john surgery. This is going to impact the rotation going forward with both Manoah and Tiederman not expected to return until mid-season (Manoah could potentially be ready to return around the all-star break while Tiederman could potentially miss the entire 2024 season since he didn't have the surgery until the end of July). The Blue Jays are going to need another starter. Manoah finished the 2024 season 1-2 with a 3.70ERA over 5 starts. Kevin Gausman missed his first turn of the season dealing with a shoulder issue. He didn't look like himself in many of his starts, so one has to wonder if he was playing through the injury or something else was bothering him. Gausman was 12-11 with a 4.09ERA over 28 startsThere has to be concerns with Bo Bichette, who missed significant time with a calf injury and went on the IL three separate times before getting shut down for a couple of months. He definitely came back too soon on at least one of the IL stints. Oh yeah, and Bichette came back for one game and then fractured a finger during defensive drills in warm-up. Bichette is going to be a key player next season and needs to be at full health. Bichette finished the season with a .222 average with 4HR and 30 RBI over 80 games and 308AB. Injuries will happen over the course of the season and the Blue Jays need to have viable options on the bench and in the minors.

2. Pitching was a big issue all season, primarily with the bullpen unable to hold leads. It is the biggest off-season need. Tim Mayza was among the worst on the team, going 0-1 with an 8.03ERA in 35 appearances before being DFA'd and eventually trraded to the Yankees. Chad Green, who was the closer once Romano went down was solid until September when he blew three consecutive saves. At this point, Green, Romano, Genesis Cabrera and Branden Little have earned spots in the bullpen in 2025. They need to find 3-4 relievers that can be relied upon to keep the score close, tied or the Blue Jays in the lead. Management cannot assume an anomally and they shouldn't be relying on waiver claims or players that were DFA'd by other teams since there is a reason why teams dropped those players.

3. The last time the Blue Jays finished a season below .500 was the last year for the core of Russell Martin, Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion. That off-season saw major changes in coaching with manager John Gibbons being let go. There needs to be significant changes this off-season too. The first move should be letting Ross Atkins go and maybe Mark Shapiro too if he is unwilling to fire his friends. In terms of the coaches, Guillermo Martinez, Pete Walker, Don Mattingly and Pete Walker all need to be let go. The offence, or lack thereof, and pitching (mainly the bullpen) were the single biggest reasons why this season went south. Walker, who has been the Blue Jayss pitching coach since 2012 has done some remarkable work over the years, turning around the careers of Robbie Ray and Jose Berrios, but, the team needs a neeew voice for the pitcher. Every coach has an expiry date where their ideas  beome stale. There have been numerous occasions this year where he has gone out for a mound visit to no effect. It's interesting too that Yusei Kikuchi has improved in his brief time in Houston since their pitching coach tweaked his pitch use. Martinez should have been let go at the end of last season, but Atkins chose to increase the number of hitting coaches in the dugout to assust Martinez. That predictably failed since there were too many voices in the dugout. As for manager John Schneider, he should be given another season, but on a short leash. The Blue Jays championship windoe is quickly closing and the team needs to not just make the playoffs, but win a round or two to entice one of Vlad and Bo Bichette to sign a long-term deal. It's already going to be a tough sell with the current state of the team and the minor league system

4. Three Blue Jays who impressed this season:

• Bowden Francis - It was a tale of two seasons for Bowden Francis, who came out of spring training as the 5th starter with Alek Manoah rehabbing an injury. After three subpar starts, Francis was relegated to the bullpen, then optioned to AAA-ball for a couple of months. When he was recalled, he worked out of the bullpen as a multi-inning reliever. He made a start July 29th and pitched well, throwing into the 6th inning. He joined the rotation for good August 7th. Francis caught fire with seven quality starts in a row. He shouldn't be handed any kind of role next season since this could well be a prolonged hot streak and teams will review the videos and adjust. He'll likely be in the rotation in 2025. Francis finished the season 8-5 with a 3.30ERA in 27 appearances (13 starts)
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. - The first of the big three prospects (Vlad, Bo Bichette and Cavan Biggio) to make their MLB debut in 2019, Vlad was the team's best player. Highlights of his season include: a 23-game hit streak, a new career high in hits (199), 3rd best career total in HR (30), 2nd best career RBI total (103) and highest career batting average (.323). He also knocked in his 500th career RBI. The Blue Jays must sign him to a decade long deal before he can test the free agent market because his value is only going to go up.
• Jose Berrios - Acquired in a trade with the Twins in 2021, Berrios had his best season in a Blue Jays uniform, going 16-0 with a solid 3.38ERA over 31 starts. He pitched 6 or more innings 22 times and had 21 quality starts. He'll be the ace of the staff for the next several seasons since he is signed through the 2028 season, although he can opt out after the 2026 season. Berrios has been the teams most consistent pitcher this season and really should have an extra 2-3 wins if not for the inept offense.

5. Three Blue Jays who disappointed this season:

• Tim Mayza - Tim Mayza had a disastrous season, going 0-1 with an 8.03 ERA in 35 appearances and did not record an out in the last two appearances in a Blue Jays uniform. He was better as a Yankee, albeit after a month in the minors to work through things, going 0-1 with a 3.94ERA. A big constributing factor was his velocity being down, thereby making his pitches more hittable. One also has to wonder if there's an issue with his arm again - he missed the 2020 pandemic season due to Tommy John surgery he had in September 2019. This Blue Jays fan is rooting for his success
• Cavan Biggio - The second of the big three (Vlad, Bo Bichette and Cavan Biggio) to make their MLB debut in 2019, Biggio has taken a ton of criticism for his lack of offense and his ability to play multuple positions likely factored into why he was kept on the team until June 10 and subsequently traded 4 days later to the Dodgers. The emergence of Addison Barger, Davis Schneider and Ernie Clement meant that Biggio's verastility wasn't as big of a plus. Biggio hit .200 with 2HR and 9RBI over 44 games and 110AB for the Blue Jays this season. It should be noted that the Dodgers released him 2 months later, he was then picked up and traded by the Giants (without playing a game) to the Braves, his current team. It will be interesting to see where he plays in 2025.
• Bo Bichette - finally, there's Bo Bichette, the second of the big three (Vlad, Bichette and Biggio) to make their MLB debut in 2019. It was Bichette's worst and most frustrating season, both statistically and injury-wise. Going into the 2024 season, Bichette was arguably the Blue Jays best, and certainly most consistent hitter. Bichette hit .225 with 4HR and 31RBI over 81 games and 311AB. He also struggled mightilty with a calf injury that put him on the IL three times, the third stint lasting almost 2 months. The cruel baseball gods struck again and after all that hard work rehabbing the injury, Bichette saw his seaaon come to a crushing end with a fractured finger after one game. First off-season priority for Bichette will be to get back to full health. Second priority is to get himself together mentally and physically because he will be a key bat in next year's lineup.

6.  Here are some Blue Jays based awards:

• team MVP - Guerrero Jr. - besides having his best statistical season since 2021 - batting .323 with 30HR and 103RBI in 159 games and 616AB, Vlad took a leadership role, highlighted prior to a recent game where he went up to a struggling Davis Schneider and gave him some tips on his batting stance. Vlad is the top priority for players that must be signed. If the team isa unable to sign him to a long-term deal in the off-season and the team struggles, they might as well blow it up and start from scratch with fans enduring some pain for a few years.
• unsung hero - Ernie Clement - the scrappy utility man had a fine season, batting .263 with 12HR and 51RBI over 139 games and 464AB. His versatility in the infield and ability to play multiple positions will make him a useful asset going forward and should give him plenty of playing time next season.
• best pitcher -  Jose Berrios - Ever since a rough 2022 season, Berrios has been the leader of the pitching staff, giving the blue Jays a chance to win mostly every five days. He was 16-11 with a 3.60ERA over 32 starts (21 quality starts) and 22 times pitching 6 or more innings. Berrios will be a key part of the rotation for the next several years and will be one of the players the team will build around.
• best prospect - reliever Brandon Litlle, who was the Blue Jays most effective lefty out of the bullpen, going 1-2 with a 3.74ERA in 49 appearances. He's one of the relievers I would keep going forward.

    

7. Let's look at who will likely prevail in the major league awards

• AL MVP - Aaron Judge, who has the opportunity to reach 60HR for the second time in 3 season and leads the AL in most of the important statistical categories (HR, RBI, on-base% and is right behind Vlad in batting average. No question Vladdy will get some MVP votes, but Judge will win the award.
• NL MVP - the race for this award was over pretty much by the all-star break. I mean, you may never see another player like Japanese phenom Shohei Ohtani, who's efforts this season were amplified by the fact he is recovering from Tommy John surgery that kept him off the pitching mound all season. Ohtani has a shot at creating a 60-60 club (60HR and 60 stolen bases), although more likely it'll be a 55-55 club. Oh yeah and he also has a shot at becoming the 18th player in MLB history with 400 total bases. He must love being in a Dodgers lineup where there are other dangerous hitters. With the Angels, Ohtani was the best hitter and often was intentionally walked. Can't wait to see him do some damage in the postseason. 
• AL Cy Young - Tarik Skubal - The Tigers southpaw is a majot reason why the Tigers are going to be back in the playoffs for the first time since 2014. Skubal was 18-3 with a solid 2.39ERA in 31 starts, 22 of them being quality starts. 
• NL Cy Young - Chris Sale, who had a comeback season after injury-riddled seasons 2020-2021 and a subpar season. It appeared that Sale's career was nearing the bottom of the 9th, but instead he was 18-3 with 2.38ERA over 29 starts (18 quality starts) and an NL-leading 225 strikeouts. He's a big reason why  the Braves are right there for a wild card spot, despite losing star Ronald Acuna Jr. to an ACL tear. The Blue Jays should kick the tires on acquiring this veteran lefty.
• AL Rookie of the year SP Luis Gil, was in the Yankees rotation due to Gerritt Cole not being ready to start the season. Gil went 15-6 with a 3.27 ERA over 28 starts (11 quality starts

• NL Rookie of the year - On a bad Padres team, Padres CF Jackson Merrill was a bright light in a dim room, batting .29 with 24HR and 89 RBI over 154 games and 547AB
• AL Manager of the year - AJ Hinch Tigers - after a decade long hiatus, Hinch and the Tigers will experience postseason action for the first time in a decade, They'll be looking to win a round (and game) for the first time since 2013.
• dishonorable mention: Paul GrifolERA ove and Grady Sizemore who are running a White Sox team that will break a modern day record for losses (are at 120 losses with one more series left)
• NL Manager of the year - Carlos Mendoza of the Mets, who are on the verge of making the playoffs after a poor season in 2023 when they had a 75-87 record despite a solid roster (at least on paper. Gibby deserves some credit for the turnaround too as the bench coach. If the Mets go far, Ross Atkins should take it as his cue to resign.

8. The playoff teams are pretty much locked in, save for the last two wild card spots, which will be settled in a Braves-Mets doubleheader with the 2 teams snagging the last 2 spots in the event of a split. If either team sweeps the double header, the Dianondbacks will be playoff bound. As far as the AL WC round goes, I got the Astros over the Tigers and the Orioles over the Royals. The World series will be the Dodgers over the Astros in 6.

9. Finally, let's look ahead at free agency and who the Blue Jays should be targeting and where their needs are. The Blue Jays have just one pending free agent, lefty Ryan Yarbrough, who did a solid job in his brief time with the Blue Jays, serving as the bulk pitcher on bullpen days in September. He'll be highly coveted, but the team should make a solid offer for him. The biggest needs the Blue Jays have are a starting pitcher, 2-3 relievers, a backup catcher, an everyday 3B and maybe another outfielder in case Daulton Varsho isn't ready. The Blue Jays should target Danny Jansen (batted .205 with 9HR and 24RBI over 91 games and 278AB) or Austin Barnes (batted .264 with 1HR and 11RBI over 54 games and 140AB) to platoon with Alejandro Kirk. Righty Kyle Hendricks (4-12 with a 5.94ERA over 29 games (24 starts) would be a solid choice as an extra starter. A few relievers the team should look at are Yarbrough (5-2 with a 3.19ERA over 44 appearances), Ryne Stanek (7-3 with a 4.88ERA and 7 saves over 63 appearances and Clay Holmes (3-5 with a 3.14ERA and 30 saves over 67 appearances. For the hot corner, Alex Bregman (batted .266 with 26HR and 75RBI over 145 games and 581AB) should get a contract offer.  I'd love to see the Blue Jays bring back Teo (batted .272 with 33HR and 99RBI over 153 games and 585AB), and add Anthony Santander (batted .235 with 44HR and 102RBI and 155 games and 595AB) or Max Kepler (batted.253) with 8HR and 42RBI over 106 games and 368AB). Regardles of who is signed, the Blue Jays can't do what they did last off-season and put all their eggs in one basket. They need to be making offers to several players and have backup plans if their first choices sign elsewhere.

10. Blue Jay of the year

• Vlad, the Blue Jays present and possibly future over the next decade, had his second best year statistically and voiced his desire to remain in Toronto over the long haul. The Blue Jays need to get him to sign on the dotted line before he regrets that desire should the team fail to entice some solid free agents to come norrth of the border.

Game #162 Miami Marlins (62-100) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-88) - game recap-

 

Luis De Los Santos scored the Blue Jays final run of the season in a 3-1 loss to the Marlins.

After a blowout loss to the Marlins, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time this season, avoid being swept in a season series for the first and only time and end the season on a winning note. Ryan Burr got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Steward Berroa in RF. Jonatan Clase was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in LF. Luis De Los Santos was at the hot corner, Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time this season, avoid being swept in a season series for the first and only time and end the season on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonah Bride singled scoring Jake Burger and Xavier Edwards
• Ryan Burr pitching line: 1IP 3H 2R (both earned) 0BB 1K 30 pitches (18 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the top of the 6th as Otto Lopez doubled scoring Bride
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a groundout hit by Joey Loperfido that scored Luis De Los Santos
• Ryan Weathers pitching line: 6.1IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 6K 97 pitches (57 for strikes) 
• Anthony Bender got the last 4 outs for his 1st save of the season`
• Final score: Marlins 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Ryan  Burr threw an inning, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 1. To be sure, the Blue Jays need to sign/acquire at least one more starting pitcher. Ryan Burr is more suited to a bullpen role or long man role.
• The bullpen gave up a final run on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out seven over 8 innings, Brett De Gauss and Btandon Eisert both retired every batter they faced. The bullpen is the single biggest need the Blue Jays have.
• Offensively, Luis De Los Santos scored the only and final Blue Jays run of the season. Vlad fell a hit short of 200 (he was 0-2 and drew 2 walks). Steward Berroa was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times, collecting a pair of hits
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the offseason. The season has mercifully come to an end and now the work can begin with building the team for 2025 - starting with figuring out who, if anyone (coaches, Schneider or GM) gets fired.

Game #162 Miami Marlins (61-100) vs Toronto Blue Jays (74-87)

 

Game #161 Miami Marlins (61-100) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-87) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit his first career HR in an 8-1 loss to the Marlins

After a blowout loss yesterday thanks to a bad day of pitching, the lue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 27th series loss of the season and 19th season series loss of the season. Lefty Easton Lucas was optioned to the spring training complex and righty Nick Robertson was recalled from AAA-ball. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Joey Loperfido got the start in CF. Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 27th series loss and 19th season series loss? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonah Bride singled scoring Xavier Edwards\
• A batter later, Griffin Conine doubled scoring Jesus Sanchez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes smacked a solo blast to right. It was his first career HR
• The Marlins added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Dane Myers doubled scoring Jake Burger and Sanchez
• Two batters later, Jhonny Perada singled home Conine. Myers was thrown out at home on the play.
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 4H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 82 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Xzavion Curry pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 1K 65 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Marlins added 3 runs in the top of the 8th as Myers hammered a 3-run bomb just over the wall in straightaway center; also scoring Sanchez and Conine
• Final score: Marlins 8 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Yariel Rodriguez pitched into the 6th inning, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6, He had a rough 1st inning, needing 30 pitches to get through it and he put the Blue Jays 2 runs down. It looked like his season might end on an injury removal when Jose Minstrel noticed somthing in warm-ups prior to the 4th inning. Luckily he was ok to continue and had an out streak of 12 outs. Rodriguez finished the 2024 season with a 1-8 record and a 4.47ERA in 21 starts. 
• The bullpen gave up a further three runs (all charged to Genesis Cabrera on a 3-run HR he gave up). Nick Robertson was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, the lone highlight was Nathan Lukes belting his first career HR to halve the deficit. George Springer was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times and Ernie Clement got the other hit. Vlad remains a hit shy of 200.
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the last game of the season. The Blue Jays try to snap the 2 game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time and avoid being swept in a season series for the only time this season and end the season on a winning note. It will be a bullpen game for the Blue Jays, who decided not to start Chris Bassitt, who was set to make the start. The Marlins will counter with lefty Ryan Weathers

Game #161 Miami Marlins (60-100) vs Toronto Blue Jays (74-86)

 

Game #160 Miami Marlins (59-100) vs Toronto Blue Jays (74-85)

 

Game #159 Boston Red Sox (80-79) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-85) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in 3 runs and scored once in a 6-1 win over the Red Sox

After a heartbreaking extra-innings loss, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 5-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Righty Brett De Gues was recalled from AAA-ball and Tommy Nance was optioned to the spring training complex. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Jonatan Clase was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B and Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement singled home Kirk
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Kirk singled scoring Jonatan Clase and Tyler Heineman. Kirk was thrown out at 2nd trying to stretch the single into a double
• The Red Sox got one back in the top of the 6th as Triston Casas singled scoring Jarren Duran
• Richard Fitts pitching line: 5IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 78 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 3BB 3K 93 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Clase whacked a 2-run blast to right-center and into the Red Sox bullpen
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Red Sox 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman had a solid final start of the season, throwing 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6. He retired 9 of the first 11 batters he faced and the only real jam he got into was the 6th, when he allowed his only run. There's no doubt that Gausman is likely disappointed overall with how his season went. His strikeouts were way down (he had 164 this year vs. 237 in 2023). He also walked 4 more batters and gave up 11 more HR this season. You have to wonder if the injury he dealt with in spring training may have lingered through the season but he didn't say anything to either the trainers or Pete Walker or John Schneider. It felt like the team may have rushed him back when he wasn't fully stretched out. Perhaps he could have benefited from another rehab start or two. Gausman finishes 2024 with a 14-11 record and a 3.83ERA oveer 31 starts.
• The bullpen threw 3 shutout innings, giving up three hits, walking none and striking out 2. Erik Swanson retired every batter he faced.
• Alejandro Kirk led the offense today, driving in 3 runs and scoring once. Jonatan Clase also contributed a 2-run HR - the first HR of his career.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Nathan Lukes, Leo Jimenez and Addison Barger reached base at least once and all but Barger, Lukes, Jimenez and Tyler Heineman had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after a final off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open the final series of the season against the Marlins. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Marlins in 2023, but the Marlins outscored the Blue Jays 14-8. Jose Berrios makes his final start of the year Friday. The Marlins haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #159 Boston Red Sox (80-78) vs Toronto Blue Jays (73-85)

Game #158 Boston Red Sox (79-78) vs Toronto Blue Jays (73-84)

 

Game #157 Boston Red Sox (79-78) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-84) - game recap

 

Spencer Horwitz drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 4-1 loss to the Red Sox

After a heartbreaking loss yesterday due to a late rally falling short,  the Blue Jays returned home to start the final week of the season. They kicked things off with a series against ex-teammate Danny Jansen and the Red Sox. The Red Sox won the first 6 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 42-40. Chris Bassitt got the start wirh Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after the compete day off yesterday. Vlad was back in the field at 1B after the half day off as DH yesterday (Spencer Horwitz served as DH today). Nathan Lukes got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the three game skid and start the final week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights;

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the the of the 2nd on a sac fly by Vaughn Grissom that scored Wilyer Abreu
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 3rd as Abrey doubled scoring Triston Casas
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 4th on a ground out hit by Ceddanne Rafaela that scored Nick Sogard
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 4.1IP 4H 3R (2 earned) 7BB 2K 88 pitches (4 for strikes)
• Tanner Houck pitching line: 5IP 1H 0R 1BB 0K 57 pitches (36 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 8th on a fielder's choice hit by Rafaela that scored Connor Wong
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Spencer Horwitz singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• Final score: Red Sox 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs (2 earned) on 4 hits while walking 7 and striking out 2. Command was the biggest issue of the day, as well efficiency, which ties directly into the command issue. This may well have been the final start of the season for Bassitt, who would be set to start the season finale on Sunday.
• The bullpen gave up a run on a hit and three walks while striking out 2 over the last 4.2 innings. Brandon Little and Erik Swanson both threw perfect innings
• Offensively, Spencer Horwirz drove in the only run in the 9th inning. Perhaps they should have pinch hit for Alejandro Kirk. He's an automatic double play when he hits it on the ground with a runner on 1st base. Kirk is almost certainly going to be the main catcher next year and these kinds of decisions will need to be made
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and even the series. Bowden Francis starts against Red Sox righty Brayan Bello

Game #157 Boston Red Sox (78-78) vs Toronto Blue Jays (73-83)

 

Game #156 Toronto Blue Jays (73-83) @ Tampa Bay Rays (78-78) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. knocked in his 100th run of the season in a losing effort as the Rays came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 4-3 

After a tough loss thanks to an offense that's consistently been unable to muster adequate offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2 game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. It was a bullpen day with Ryan Burr serving as opener with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwirz at 1B. Jonatan Clase was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Ryan Burr pitching line: 1.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 3K 28 pitches (16 for strikes)
• Thr Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Leo Jimenez that scored Ernie Clement
• The Rays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Jonathan Aranda hammered a 2-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Brandoon Lowe 
• Shane Baz pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 83 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 7th as Clement singled scoring Tyler Heineman
• The Rays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Christopher Morel that scored Jose Siri 
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Lowe whacked a solo jack to right-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• Edwin Uceta got the last 3 outs for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Rays 4 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Ryan Burr gave the Blue Jays 4 outs, allowing a hit, walking none and striking out 3. The Blue Jays have to get another starter - bullpen days every 5-6 days isn't ideal. At this time, the Blue Jays don't have enough pitchers built up to handle pitching more than 1 or 2 innings
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 9 over 7.2 innings. Every reliever gave up at least one hit and had a run charged against them. The two lefties might be on next year's team.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays took the lead on a sac fly and answered runs by the Rays in the 7th and 9th inning. Sadly, the 9th inning rally fell short. Ernie Clement scored a run and drove in a run. Vlad knocked in his 100th run of the season. The team also had a failed suicide squeeze in the 7th with Tyler Heineman a dead duck at home
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home to wrap up the final week of the season as they open a series against ex-Blue Jay catcher Danny Jansen and the Red Sox. The Red Sox have won 6 of the first 10 meetings in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 42-40. Chris Bassitt starts against Red Sox righty Tanner Houck.

Game #156 Toronto Blue Jays (73-82) Vs Tampa Bay Rays (77-78)

 

Game #155 Toronto Blue Jays (73-82) @ Tampa Bay Rays (77-78) - game recap

 

Spencer Horwitz scored a run and drove in a run in a 3-2 loss to the Rays

After a 1-0 loss yesterday after a poor showing from the offense which was unable to back up another strong start from ace Jose Beerrios, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 29th series loss of the season, as well as their first losing season since 2019.. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger in RF. Joey Loperfido was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in LF. Vlad was at the hot corner, Davis Schneider was at 2B and Spencer Horwitz was at 1B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 29th series loss and first losing season since 2019? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ben Rotvedt singled scoring Jonathan Aranda.
• The Rays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Aranda hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Yandy Diaz
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Spencer Horwirz singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 4IP 4H 3R (all earned) 3BB 3K 81 pitches (49 for strikes)
• Taj Bradley pitching line: 5IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 103 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Alejandro Kirjk tripled home Horwitz
• Drew Rasmussen threw 2 perfect innings for his 1st save of the season.-
• Final score: Rays 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

•  Yariel Rodriguez battled through 4 innings, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. Certainly not the most efficient game, basically needing 20 pitches to get through an inning. Rodriguez should have a shot at a role in the rotation or even as a long man. The Blue Jays should try to sign a starter to give the team a bit more depth in case of injuries.
• Speaking of injuries, there has to be a major review on pitching development and management of workload. Eight pitchers in the Blue Jays system had procedures on their elbows, seven of them Tommy John surgeries. That is a lot of pitchers undergoing the same procedure that typically takes a year or more to be back to pitching in games. It's been interesting to see how the Blue Jays have been pulling Rodriguez after 3-5 innings in recent starts. Yet, Bowden Francis was allowed to throw well over 100 pitches in 2 consecutive starts with a no-hitter through 8 innings. Surely they could have used a reliever for one inning. As it is the Blue Jays prospect pool is already thin, the team can ill-afford to see any more pitchers done for a season due to injury.
• The bullpen threw 4 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits, a walk and striking out 3. Genesis Cabrera was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• Offensively, Spencer Horwitz drove in a run and scored a run. Alejandro Kirk drove in Horwtz on his first career triple.
• Every Blue Jays starter except George Springer and Davis Schneider had at least one hit,
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• With the loss, the Blue Jays are now guaranteed to have a losing record for the 1st time since 2019 when they finished an abysmal 67-95. That was the same season that saw the MLB debuts of Vlad, Bo Bichette and Cavan Biggio
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Righty Shane Baz will start for the Rays. It will be bullpen day for the Blue Jays with lefty Ryan Yarbrough getting the bulk of the innings and potentially starting.

Game #155 Toronto Blue Jays (73-81) Vs Tampa Bay Rays (76-78)

 

Game #154 Toronto Blue Jays (76-81) @ Tampa Bay Rays (76-78) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 6 strong innings in a 1-0 shutout loss to the Rays

After escaping Texas yesterday with a win thanks to 5 no-hit innings from Kevin Gausman and a big 3-run scoring effort from Vlad, the Blue Jays opened their final road series of the season, right back where the season started in Tampa Bay. The Rays won 6 of the 1st ten games in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 48-40. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after the complete day off yesterday. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (Spencer Horwitz served as DH today). Jonatan Clase was in CF. Luis De Los Santos got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Jonathan Aranda drilled a solo jack to right-center
• Tyler Anderson pitching line: 4.1IP 2H 0R 1BB 6K 65 pitches (42 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 97 pitches (73 for strikes)
• Hunter Bigge threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Rays 1 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. His biggest out streak was 5 and he was working his way in and out of jams all night. Giving up home runs has been a problem for Berrios this season and the one he coughed up tonight was the difference in thr game
• The bullpen threw two perfect innings striking out 3. Not sure if either Ryan Burr or Zack Pop will be part of the 2025 bullpen.
• Offensively, sloppy game with poor baserunners and bad AB's when they got their chances
• One more loss guarantees the 1st losing streak since 2019
• The Blue Jays were 0-7 with runners in scorinh position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Yariel Rodriguez starts against Rays righty Taj Bradley 

Game #154 Toronto Blue Jays (73-80) Vs Tampa Bay Rays (75-78)

 

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (73-80) @ Texas Rangers (73-80) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a pair of solo HR and scored three times in a 4-0 shutout win over the Rangers

After a 2-0 loss yesterday after a poot showing from the offense which was unable to back up another strong start from Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the two game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Bo Bichette's season has come to an end as he was placed on the 10 day IL with a right middle finger fracture. Jonatan Clase was recalled from AAA- ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Vlad got the half day off with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Ernie clement was at SS and Leo Jimenez was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2- game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd on a sac fly by Nathan Lukes that scored Addison Barger
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 3rd on a fielding error by Rangers 3B Ezequiel Duran on a ball hit by Leo Jimenez that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Kumar Rocker pitching line: 3IP 2H 2R (1 earned) 4BB 5K 71 pitches (41 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 0H 0R 1BB 6K 58 pitches (38 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to the 2nd deck in left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Rangers 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 5 no-hit innings, walking 1 and striking out 6. He likely could have thrown a few more innings, but having the pitchers go into the off-season healthy is more important than chasing a no-hitter. Gausman's only blemish was a 1-out walk in the 5th inning. He retired the first 13 batters he faced. Gausman will get a final start in the last weekend of the season.
• The bullpen gave up 2 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Genesis Cabrera gave up the hit that ruined the combined no-hit bid. Dillon Tate and Eric Swanson both retired every batter they faced
• Offensively it was the Vlad show. Arguably the team's best player this season hit a pair of solo home runs and scored three times. Nathan Lukes drove in the other run on a sac fly 
• There has to be major concerns over the health of Bo Bichette, who fractured a finger on a ground ball during warm-ups yesterday. He ends his season batting .277 (first time he finished a season batting below .500) with 4HR and 31RBI over 81 games and 311AB. he literally missed half the season due to injury, the vast majority of that time to a calf injury that put him on the IL three times
• The Blue Jays need to go 8-1 in the last 9 games to avoid their first losing season since 2019. Stranger things have happened, but given the opponents they face (the Rays at Tropicana and the Red Sox, who must pretty much win out to steal the last WC spot) chances are slim to none, Plus, the Blue Jays have not won more than 5 games in a row.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Tampa Bay where they will finish the road portion of the schedule where they started the season. The Rays have won 6 of the first 10 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 48-40. Jose Berrios starts against Rays lefty Tyler Alexander.

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (72-80) Vs Texas Rangers (73-79)

 

Game #152 Toronto Blue Jays (72-79) Vs Texas Rangers (72-79)

Game #151 Toronto Blue Jays (72-78) Vs Texas Rangers (71-79)

 

Game #150 St. Louis Cardinals (74-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (72-78) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in the winning run in a 3-2 win over the Cardinals

After a solid win over the Cardinals on the backs of 7 strong innings from ace Jose Berrios and a 4-run rally in the 6th and Vlad's 500th career RBI, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 3rd series sweep of the season. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Brian Serven behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. George Springer got the complete day off with Addison Barger in RF. Nathan Lukes was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Luis De Los Santos was at the hot corner and Leo Jimenez was at 2B. 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 Highlights:

• The Cardinals opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Jordan Walker doubled scoring Ivan Herrera
• Yariel Rodriguez pitzhing line: 4.1IP3H 1R (earned) 1BB 2K 62 pitches (41 f or strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Davis Schneider whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Spencer Horwitz
• Miles Mikolas pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 0BB 4K 72 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Cardinals tied the game in the top of the 7th as Lars Nootbaar smacked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring George Springer 
• Chad Green pitched a scoreless 9th for his 17th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Cardinals 2

My Take:

• Yariel Rodriguez battled through 4.1 innings, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. Boy was Rodriguez hot on the bench at being pulled after throwing just 62 pitches. He retired 9 of the first 11 batters he faced. The Blue Jays are obviously being very careful with his usage in his final starts of the season with his last start either coming at the end of the road trip or the beginning of the final homestand. This is understandable with the Blue Jays having four pitchers already (Alek Manoah, Rickey Tiederman, Landen Maroudis and Brandon Barriera). The Blue Jays can ill-afford to lose another prospect pitcher to a long-term injury.
• The bullpen threw 3.2 scoreless innings, allowing 4 hits, walking 2 and striking out 3. Chad Green, who had blown three saves in a row, was shaky, giving up a pir of singles but he escaped the jam without allowing a run. Zack Pop was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, Davis Schneider (2-run HR) and Nathan Lukes (RBI single) did rhe damage 
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after  an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays start their final road trip of the season in Texas. They swept the Rangers at the end of July, ooutscoring the Rangers 20-11. Nathan Eovaldi starts for the Rangers. The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #150 St. Louis Cardinals (74-74) Vs Toronto Blue Jays (71-78)

 

Game #149 St. Louis Cardinals (74-74) @ Toronto Blue Jays (71-78) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in his 500th career run in a 7-2 come-from-behind win over the Cardinals

After a walk off win on an RBI single off the bat of Alejandro Kirk yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for 2 straight wins, 15 series wins and 9 season series wins. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Spencer Horwitz served as DH today). Nathan Lukes was in CF  and Joey Loperfido was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 15 series wins and 9 season series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Cardinals opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Jordan Walker belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Davis Schneider whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• Joey Loperfid left the game prior to the top of the 5th with a sore adductor muscle
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Ernie Clement that scored Nathan Lukes. Cardinals SS Masyn Winn was charged with a throwing error 
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a groundout hit by Alejandro Kirk. 
• A batter after that, Addison Barger singled scoring Spencer Horwirz
• A batter later, Schneider singled scoring Clement
• Kyle Gibson pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 5R (1 earned) 3BB 1K 95 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 2H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 97 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Lukes. It was the 500th career RBI for Vlad
• Three batters later, Kirk singled home Guerrero Jr.
• The Cardinals got one back in the top of the 9th on a ground out hit by Jose Fermin that scored Alec Burleson
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Cardinals 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 7 strong innings, giving up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. He retired the first 8 batters he faced and the final 7 batters he faced. Berrios will be part of the core of this franchise for the next several years and likely the ace of the staff too.
• The bullpen gave up a run on a hit whhile walking none and striking out 1 over the last 2 innings. Ryan Burr retired every batter he faced
• Unfortunate timing with the injury to Joey Loperfido. It is likely that he will be shut down for the rest of the season with just 2 weeks left in the season. There's no need to rush him and have him make the injury worse, especially with the experience with Bo Bichette that almost cost him the last 6 weeks of the season.
• Several Blue Jays had big days at the plate: Vlad drove in his 500th career run and scored twice, Nathan Lukes scored twice, Davis Schneider drove in a pair including himself on a solo HR, and Alejandro Kirk drove in 2
• The Blue Jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend their win streak to 3 games and complete their 3rd sweep of the season. Yariel Rodriguez starts against Cardinals righty Miles Mikolas

Game #149 St. Louis Cardinals (74-73) Vs Toronto Blue Jays (70-78)

 

Game #148 St. Louis Cardinals (74-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-78) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a pair of runs in a 4-3 extra innings win over the Cardinals

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened up a weekend set against the Cardinals, who won the season series outscoring the Blue Jays 22-15. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger in RF. Joey Loperfido was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in LF. Vlad was at the hot corner with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Cardinals took the lead in the top of the 1st as Nolan Arenado singled scoring Masyn Winn
• Two batters later, Alec Burleson scored on a fielder's choice on a ball hit by Thomas Saggese
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring George Springer 
• A batter later, Natthan Lukes scored on a sac fly by Spencer Horwirz
• Two batters, Alejandro Kirk singled home Guerrero Jr. 
• Erick Feddle pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 3K 94 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 7IP 9H 2R (both earned)2BB 3K 104 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Cardinals tied it in the top of the 8th as Saggese hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 11th as Alejandro Kirk singled home Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Cardinals 3 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 7 solid innngs, giving up a pair of runs on 9 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. He had a rough start to the game, giving up four consecutive singles and 2 runs in the 1st inning. He then retired 11 straight and made a great play on a line drive to end that inning. Other than the 1st inning, Gausman was able to make the pitches he had to make to escape jams without allowing costly runs.
• The bullpen had mixed results. Genesis Cabrera blew the save by giving up a HR to the first bstter he faced. Tommy Nance gave up a base hit and gave the Blue Jays the chance to walk it off in the 9th. Branden Little and Erik Swanson both had perfect innings with the pressure of the ghost runner. I found it interesting that the Blue Jays opted not to use Chad Green in any of the last three innings. To be fair, he has been struggling lately, but he is a veteran pitcher who has the most experience closing games.
• Offesively, the Blue Jays did most of the damage in the 3rd inning with Vlad driving in one and scoring once. Kirk drove in a pair with Vlad scoring on both occasions.
• The Blue Jays were 5-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 2 straight wins, 15 series wins and 9 season series wins. Jose Berrios starts against Cardinals righty Kyle Gibson

Game #148 St. Louis Cardinals (74-72) Vs Toronto Blue Jays (69-78)

 

Game #147 New York Mets (80-66) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-78) - game recap

 

Bowden Francis took a no-hitter into the 9th inning in a losing effort as the Mets came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 6-2

After a solid win on the back of a 4-run 3rd inning rally, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win, 15th series win and 9th season series win of the season. Bowden Francis got the start with Brian Serven behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Nathan Lukes in RF. Joey Loperfido was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Luis De Los Santos was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and Will Wagner got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 15 series wins and 9 season series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th on a fielder's choice hit by Davis Schneider that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Sean Manara pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 4BB 8K 109 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Mets tied it up in the top of the 9th as Francisco Lindor belted a solo jack to right
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 8IP 1H 1R (earned) 1BB 1K 111 pitches (68 for strikes)
• Four batters later, Jose Iglesias scored on a sac fly by Pete Alonso
• Two batters later, Eddy Alvarez scored on a sac fly by Srerling Marte
• A batter later, Francisco Alvarez hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Brandon Nimmo and JD Martinez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Edwin Diaz got the last out for his 20th save of the season
• Final score: Mets 6 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Bowden Francis was outstanding today, taking a no-hit bid into the 9th inning, the only blemishes, hitting Pete Alonso with a pitch in the 4th inning and a walk to Starling Marte two batters later. Unfortunately, the bid ended the same way it did a couple of starts prior, on a solo HR. This time, the home run tied the game since the offense only provided him with one run of support. It's a shame because Francis more than did his part to help his team win. Francis should be penciled in as the opening day starter based on the last 6 weeks of starts. Of course, all momentum will be lost come February next year so that will be determined by his performance in spring training
• Sadly, the bullpen was the exact opposite in terms of effectiveness. Chad Green was responsible for 4 of the 5 runs given up by himself and lefty Genesis Cabrera, who immediately gave up a no-doubter for three runs, followed by a loud double and a walk. Green has been a disaster the last month. Today, after a horrible throw from 3rd baseman Luis De Los Santos, Green walked three of the next 4 batters and the two outs he managed to get were sac flies that easily could have been home runs - the batters just missed the sweet spot of the bat. Is Green getting tired? Have teams figured him out? Is he playing through an injury that is impacting his effectiveness? Perhaps it's a little of all three. If it is the latter, he should be shut down
• The offense owes Bowden Francis an apology for not giving him more run support. One run isn't going to cut it on most days in today's game where the game has been adjusted to create more runs with bigger bases, fewer pickoffs allowed and the pitch clock.The youngsters on the team did the damage offensively today (Davis Schneider had a productive out on a fielder's choice and Addison Barger knocked in a late run on an RBI single. The only silver lining was the Blue Jays rallied in the 9th and forced the Mets to bring in closer Edwin Diaz, although, like the Blue Jays, the Mets have an off-day tomorrow so Diaz would be available Friday.
• With the loss, the Blue Jays are just four losses away from their first losing season since 2018.
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays cotinue the homestand against the Cardinals, another NL opponent desperate for a win to stay in the NL WC race (although being seven games back they are a long shot to be sure. The Cardinals took the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 22-15. Neither team has set their rotation for the series.

Game #147 New York Mets (79-66) Vs Toronto Blue Jays (69-77)

 

Game #146 New York Mets (79-66) @ Toronto Blue Jays (69-77) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider hit a 2-run truple in a 6-2 win over the Mets

After dropping yesterday's game thanks to some wild (literally) pitching from Tommy Nance, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 26th series loss and 14th season series loss of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejamdro Kirk behind the plate. Joey Loperfido was in LF. Vlad was back in the field and at 1B after the haf day off yesterday as DH (Spencer Horwitz served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 26th series loss and 14th season series loss? Here is tonight's game recap,

Game Highlights:

• The Mets opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Brandon Nimmo singled scoring Francisco Lindor
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 2nd as Leo Jimenez singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Three batters later, Davis Schneider tripled scoring Kirj and Clement
• A batter later, Joey Loperfido singled home Schneider
• David Peterson pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 5R (4 earned) 2BB 2K 76 pitches (51 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 101 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Mets got one back in the top of the 7th on a passed ball by Alejandro Kirk that scored Jose Iglesias 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Spencer Horwirz doubled scoring Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Mets 2

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw six solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. His command was a bit off with Bassitt hiting a pair of batters and walking one. This was one of his better starts on the year. Bassitt will likely slide in as the 3rd starter next season, behind Berrios and likely Bowden Francis
• The bullpen gave up a tun on a hit, a walk and a passed ball. Zach Pop, Genesis Cabrera and Chad Green, who bounced back after blowing 4 straight save opportunities, all retired every batter they faced
• Offensively, Davis Schneider, who has been immersed in a huge slump, came through with a 2-run triple. Ernie Clement scored three times and Vlad, Leo Jimenez, Spencer Horwitz and Alejandro Kirk drove in one each
• The Blue Jays must go 12-4 the rest of the way to finish .500. The last time the Blue Jays had a .500 record this season was April 29, when they were 15-15.
• The Blue Jays were 6-18 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins, 15 series wins and 9 season series wins. Bowden Francis starts against Mets lefty Sean Manaea

Game #146 New York Mets (79-65) Vs Toronto Blue Jays (68-77)

 

Game #145 New York Mets (79-65) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-77) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in a run on a sac fly in a 3-2 come-from-behind loss to the Mets

After dropping an extra innings game yesterday, the Blue Jays returned home to start a series against the Mets, who are in a battle and currently tied with the Braves for the 3rd WC spot. Ryan Burr got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Leo Jimenez was at SS and Will Wagner got the start at 2B. Could the Bue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Ryan Burr pitching line: 2IP 0H 0R 0BB 3K 30 pitches (22 for strikes)
• The Mets opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as JD Martinez singled scoring Pete Alonso
• Tylor Megill pitching line: 6IP 1H 0R 2BB 9K 88 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 7th on a bases loaded hit by pitch to Leo Jimenez that forced in Davis Schneider\
• A batter later, Brian Serven scored on a sac fly by Nathan Lukes
• The Mets tied it in the top of the 8th on a wild pitch by Tommy Nance that scoredTyrone Taylor
• A batter later, Eddy Alvarez scored on a passed ball charged to Serven
• Edwin Diaz threw a scoreless 9th for his 17th save of the season
• Final score: Mets 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Ryan Burr was excellent tonight, throwing 2 perfect innings and striking out 3. It's not easy starting a game as opposed to coming in as a reliever. 
• The bullpen had mixed results. Ryan Yarbrough allowed a run on a hit and 2 walks over 3.2 innings. A wild Tommy Nance was tagged for 2 runs on a wild pitch and passed ball and walked 2 batters and gave up a hit. Erik Swanson also allowed a hit but was able to quickly erase the base runner by inducing a double play. Luis Frias retired every batter he faced. The bullpen must be a priority for upgrades in the offseason.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays took advantage of wildness from the Mets bullpen, scoring on a hit batter with the bases loaded and a sac fly. Other than the 7th inning, the Blue Jays really couldn't get much going. In fact after loading the bases in the 1st inning on 2 walks and a Vlad double, the next 17 Blue Jays hitters in a row were retired and 8 of the last 9 batters were retired.
• The Blue Jays cannot lose more than 4 more games or they will be below .500 on the season. The last time the Blue Jays finished a season below .500 was 2018 when they finished with a record of 73-89. It was the last season with John Gibbons, the current Mets bench coach managing the team. It was also the season before the core of this team, Vlad. Bo Bichette and Cavan Biggio made their big league debut. The only player from that 2018 team still in the Blue Jays system is Aaron Sanchez, who is currently pitching in AAA-ball for the Buffalo Bisons
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring postion
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2 game skid, avoid their 26th series loss and 15th season series loss of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Mets lefty David Peterson