Game #45 - Tampa Bay Rays (25-23) @ Toronto Blue Jays (20-25) - game recap

 

Daniel Vogelabach was 3-4 with 3 runs scored, including his first HR in a Blue JAays uniform, in a 5-2 win over the Rays 

After another late-game loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daniel Vogelbach served as DH and IKF got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the 1st time this season

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Daniel Vogelbach hammered a solo bomb to right-center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as George Springer doubled scoring Vogelbach
• A batter later, Springer scored on a fielding error by Rays 3B Isaac Paredes on a ball hit by Isiah Kiner-Falefa
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 6th as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Vogelbach and Springer
• Aaron Civale pitching line: 5.1IP 6H 5R (4 earned) 4BB 3K 96 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 7K 103 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Rays got a pair back in the bottom of the 9th as Paredes whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Jonathan Aranda
• Jordan Romano got the last out for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rays 2

My Take:

• Alek Manoah had his best start since 2021, firing 7 shutout innings, allowing a hit, a walk and he hit a pair of batters while striking out 7. No more than one base runner reached base in any of the 7 innings and just one reached 2nd base. That's the kind of pitching the Blue Jays were looking for from Manoah, who looked like a star in the making his first season and a half in the bigs before faltering badly in 2023 and his first start of 2024. If he keeps pitching like this, he may not have to worry about having to fight for a spot in the roation next year.
• The bullpen, namely Zack Pop, gave up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 3 over the last 2 innings. It feels like no lead is completely safe with the bullpen not as effective as last year. Trevor Richards and Jordan Romano retired every batter they faced
• There were unlikely heroes offensively today. Daniel Vogelbach (3-4, 3 runs scored and his first HR in a Blue Jays uniform), George Springer (1-2, 2 runs scored, 1RBI), Alejandro Kirk (2-run double) did the damage offensively today
• Vlad's bat remains hot. He now has hits in 16 of his last 18 games and 8 of those were multi-hit games. He may be a candidate to be the all-star rep for the Blue Jays
• Up next, the Blue Jays look to keep it going and extend the win streak to 2 games as they start a three game series against the White Sox. The Blue Jays swept the season series again the White Sox last year, outscoring the White Sox 35-11. Ace Jose Berrios starts against White Sox righty Erick Fedde

Game #45 Tampa Bay Rays (25-22) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-25)

 

Game #44 - Tampa Bay Rays (25-22) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-25) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in a pair of runs and scored a run in a losing effort as the Rays came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 5-4

After a heartbreaking loss yesterday after a larte-game rally fell short, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid their 7th series loss of the season and snap the 2-gane skid. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate.  George Springer swapped spots with Davis Schneider, who was at 2B, in the lineup, batting 6th and Schneider batting leadoff. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 7th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:-

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring the bottom of the 4th as George Springer singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jas added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Kevin Kiermaier and Davis Schneider.
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Rays got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Amed Rosario singled scoring Yandy Diaz and Harold Ramirez
• A batter later, Jose Caballero singled home Jonny DeLuca
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 8H 3R (all earned) 1BB 6K 102 pitches (72 for strikes)
• Zach Eflin pitching line: 6IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 3K 75 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Rays took the lead in the top of the 5th as DeLuca whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Richie Palacios
• Garrett Clevinger pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Rays 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. After giing up a leadoff single to start the game, Gausman retired 8 in a row. He also had a huge pickoff at 2nd base in the 5th inning. Gausman has pitched better in recent starts 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced. Nate Pearson gave up a 2-run HR that turned out to be the difference in the game.
• The offense still can't muster a run when it matters. After the Rays took the lead, the Blue Jays got the first two batters on base in the 8th on a Vladdy single and Bo Bichette taking one for the team on a hit by pitch only for Justin Turner to strike out and Danny Jansen and George Springer to both ground out. In the 9th, the Blue Jays went down in order
• The top three hitters in the lineup were a combined 6-13 with 3 RBI and 3 runs scored. The rest of the lineup went 4-22 with a run scored and an RBI.
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the 1st time. Alek Manoah starts against Rays righty Aaron Civale

Game #44 Tampa Bay Rays (24-22) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-24)

Game #43 - Tampa Bay Rays (24-22) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-24) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider whacked a 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Rays hung on to edge the Blue Jays 4-3

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a weekend set and home stand against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Blue Jays and Rays split the opening 4 games of the season, with the Blue Jays outscoring the Rays 20-17. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. IKF got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap..

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 6th as Randy Arozarena scored on a ground out hit by Jonathan Aranda
• Two batters later, Richie Palacios hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Isaac Paredes
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 3R (all earned) 3BB 5K 103 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the top of the 7th as Yandy Diaz singled scoring Ben Rortvedt
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Davis Schneider drilled a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Danny Jansen
• Three batters later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Tyler Alexander pitching line: 7.1IP 3H 3R (all earned) 0BB 4K 105 pitches (74 for strikes)
• Pete Fairbanks threw a perfect 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Rays 4 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5, Bassitt was able to limit the damage to a base runner or two per inning that didn't score until the 6th innings when the Rays broke the game open scoring three runs on two hits, a walk and a throwing error by Vlad. He literally needed to be perfect with Rays starter Tyler Alexander taking a no-hitter into the 8th inning
• The bullpen gave up a costly insurance run in the 7th inning that proved to be the difference in the game. Genesis Cabrera and Nate Pearson both retired every batter they faced
• Realy not much to say about the offense, which did literally nothing in 8 of the 9 innings. It look a bloop hit by Danny Jansen to break up the perfect game and no-hit bid. Davis Schneider quickly ended any chance of a shuout with a no-doubter to left-centered that halved the Rays lead. George Springer killed the rally by hitting into an inning ending double play (AKA MK special)
• Vlad saw his hitting streak come to an end 6 games. He now has hits in 14 of his last 16 games
• Interesting that GM Ross Atkins is holding a media availability tomorrow. Don't expect anyone to get fired just yet. Something does need to happen  soon before the Blue Jays fall too far back in the standings
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and even both this weekend series and the season series. Kevin Gausman starts against Rays righty Zach Eflin.

Game #43 Tampa Bay Rays (23-22) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-23) AppleTV+ Exclusive

 

Game #42 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-23) @ Baltimore Orioles (27-14) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in both Blue Jays runs in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 3-2

After a rain out yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for two straight wins, their 6th series win and 1st series sweep of the season. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after missing a couple of days with the illness that's been going through the Blue Jays team lately. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins, 6 series wins and a series sweep? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jacob Westburg whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 3rd as Bo Bichette doubled scoring George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Kyle Bradish pitching line: 4IP 4H 2R (both earned) 2BB 3K 85 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 9K 88 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Orioles walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Adley Rutschmann drilled a 2-run jack to right; also scoring Westburg
• Final score: Orioles 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 4.1 innings, giving up a run on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 9. The pitch count was most likely elevated due to the high number of strikeouts. He gave up a leadoff HR and had one perfect inning, the 3rd. Had a few stressful innings. 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 3.1 innings. Jordan Romano was charged with his first blown save of the season. Zack Pop and Tim Mayza retired every batter they faced
• Aside from an offensive outburst that saw a pair of runs scored on 3 hits, the Blue Jays managed a grand total of six base runners the remainder of the game and did nothing with a bases loaded opportunity in the 5th inning
• Bo Bichette and Vlad  extended their hit streaks to 6 games and Vlad now has hits in 13 of his last 14 games.
• The Blue Jays were 2-13 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays begin a stretch of 13 games in as many days. They start that stretch with a weekend set, beginning Friday. at home against the Rays. The two squads split the season opening 4-game series in TB with the Blue Jays outscoring the Rays 20-17. Chris Bassitt starts Friday. The Rays have not set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #42 Toronto Blue Jays (19-22) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-14)

Game #41 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-22) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-14) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in a paur of runs and scored once in a 3-2 come-from-behind win over the Orioles

After another loss and series loss on Mother's day yesterday thanks to a lacklustre effort from the offensr, the Blue Jays hit the road for their 1st trip to Baltimore.  The Orioles won 10 of 13 games in the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 75-40. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Adley Rutschmann hammered a solo bomb to right-center 
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 6th as Daniel Vagelbach singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Rutchmann hammered a solo bomb to right
• Corbin Burnes pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned run) 2BB 2K 85 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 7th as Daulton Varsho hammered a solo bomb to right
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 94 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the 1op of the 10th on a fielder's choice hit by Varsho that scored Cavan Bigguo
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Orioles 2 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Jose Berrios was great tonight, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking one and striking out 4. Orioles catcher Adley Rutschmann was a thorn in the side of Berrios, going yard on the Blue Jays ace twice. Berrios had out streaks of 7 and 8 batters in a row. He's been one of the Blue Jays best pitchers in 2024
• The bullpen did its job, holding the Orioles to a walk while striking out 3 over the last 3 innings. Jordan Romano was credited with the win.
• Daulton Varsho was the offensive hero tonight, hitting a game-tying HR in the 8th inning and knocking in the winning run via a groundoot in the 10th inning
• Interesting decision to drop down a bunt to move the runner over to 3rd base in the 10th inning. The Blue Jays didn't even have to sacrifice an out 
• Vlad extended his hit streak to 5 games
• The Blue Jays were 2-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and their 5th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Orioles righty Kyle Bradish

Game #41 Toronto Blue Jays (18-22) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-13)

 

Game #40 - Minnesota Twins (24-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-22) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw seven strong innings in a 5-1 loss to the Twins 

After pulling off a a huge comeback win yesterday to save Kevin Gausman, who was bad yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win and 5th series win of the season. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Sppringer was back in the lineup and in RF. Daniel Vogelbach served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and 5 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the top of the 7th as Carlos Santana belted a 3-run jack to right-center; also scoring Max Kepler and Alex Kirillof
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Danny Jansen that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Bailey Ober pitching line: 6.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 10K 104 pitches (67 for strikes)
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 7IP 4H 3R (none earned) 1BB 6K 78 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Twins added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Kepler doubled scoring Edouard Julien and Carlos Correa
• Final score: Twins 5 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Alek Manoah was excellent today, firing 7 strong innings, giving up 3 unearned runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. Manoah's delivery was a lot more consistent and he had much better command of his pitches. Maybe this might be the turning point in his career and not a one-off good start 
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 2 hits and a walk while striking out 3 over 2 innings. Erik Swanson was responsible for both runs, both hits and the walk. It has been a disastrous season for Swanson, who missed the first few weeks with an injury suffered in spring training. One has to wonder if he was rushed back too soon.
• The offense was almost non-existent today, after its biggest output of the season yesterday.. Through the first 6 innings, the Blue Jays had exactly one hit - a single by the red hot Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who later scored the Blue Jays only run on a sac fly by Danny Jansen
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road for a brief three-game series in Baltimore. The Orioles won 10 of 13 games in the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 75-40. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Orioles righty Corbin Burnes.

Game #40 Minnesota Twins (23-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-21)

 

Game #39 - Minnesota Twins (23-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-21) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was 4-4 with a run scored and 3RBI in a 10-8 come-from-behind win over the Twins

After a heartbreaking loss yesterday, the Blue Jays were trying to even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's loss. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Carlos Correa singled scoring Edouard Julien
• A batter later, Alex Kirilloff singled scoring Correa and Max Kepler. Davis Schneider was charged with a fielding error on the play
• The Twins added a run in the top of the 2nd as Trevor Larnach singled scoring Carlos Santana
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette hammered a solo bomb to keft-center
• The Twins added 3 runs in the top of the 3rd as Santana hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Correa and Willi Castro
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Davis Schneider
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled home Varsho\
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 3IP 10H 7R (6 earned) 2BB 6K 86 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Twins added a run in the top of the 4th as Ryan Jeffers drilled a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Schneider whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Four batters later, Danny Jansen smacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Guerrero Jr.
• Simeon-Woods Richardson pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 5R (all earned) 1BB 2K 91 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Cavam Biggio and Schneider
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Danny Jansen
• A batter later, Jansen scored on a sac fly by Schneider
• Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 6th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Twins 8

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman eas rocked tonight, giving up 7 runs (6 earned) on 10 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. It was his worst start of the season and was bad timing with Alek Manoah slated to start tomorrow. The Blue Jays are about to enter their busiest stretch of baseball with just two off-days left in May and 13 straight days of games after the off-day Thursday. It is imperative that the Blue Jays find a couple of starters capble of pitching deep in games,\
• The bullpen was excellent tonight, giving up a run on three hits while walking none and striking out 6. Erik Swanson, Yimi Garcia and Trevor Richards retired every batter they faced
• The offence was the star of the game today with their largest output of the season, hitting double digits in runs for the first time this season
• Every starter except Justin Turner had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 5-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 5th series win of the season. Alek Manoah starts against Twins righty Bailey Oder

Game #39 Minnesota Twins (23-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-21)

Game #38 - Minnesota Twins (23-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-21) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 8 stellar innings in a 3-2 loss to the Twins

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened an abbreviated one series weekend homestand against the Minnesota Twins. The Blue Jays and Twins split the season series last year with the Twins outscoring the Blue Jays 28-26. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Ernie Clement got the start at the hot corner and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jose Miranda singled scoring Carlos Correa
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 3rd as Isiah Kiner-Falefa bashed a solo jack to left-center
• The Twins retook the lead in the top of the 5th as Carlos Santana smacked a solo blast just fair to the opposite field in right
• Joe Ryan pitching line: 7IP 6H 1R (earned) 0BB 7K 104 pitches (75 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 8IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 3K 97 pitches (68 for strikes)
• The Twins addded a run in the top of the 9th as Max Kepler singled home Correa
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Bo Bichette
• Griffin Jax got the last 3 outs for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Twins 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take

•  Yusei Kikuchi was excellent tonight and may have had his best start in a Blue Jays uniform, firing 8 innings, allowing a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 3. After giving up a run on three straight hits in the 1st inning, Kikuchi retired 11 straight before giving up a leadoff homerun in the 5th and 23 of the next 24 batters he faced. He was stellar from the get go and could be an early candidate to rep the Blue Jays at the all-star game.
• The bullpen, on the otther hand gave up a costly insurance run in the 9th that was the difference in the game. It has been an achilles heel for the Blue Jays after being an asset for the last couple of seasons. Injuries to Erik Swanson, who hasn't looked good at all since returning from that injury, and Jordan Romano, who has also not been too sharp, but that could be from lack of consistent work. The lefties haven't consistently been able to get out left-handed batters. It will be interesting to see if Aaron Sanchez pans out. The Blue Jays are stretching him out to be a starter, but he has had bullpen success too.
• The offence continues to be anemic and lack the ability to strike at key times. Yes, they did get a run back in the 9th inning, but they could not tie it up. The top 5 hitters in the lineup were a combined 2-15. Vlad had a pair of hits and Davis Schneider drew a walk. The other Schneider, manager John Schneider needs to start setting his lineup based on who is hot and who is not. Players should be earning their playing time, not having it handed to them. For example, why not bat Vlad cleanup tomorrow since he now has hits in 10 of his last 11 games
• I don't foresee anyone getting fired until the next off-day Thursday. You want to give the new manager, likely to be an interim from within the organization, to have a fresh series to work with. Quite frankly, Ross Atkins needs to go first
• It would seem the 2-year renovation project had the unintended consequence of being to the Blue Jays' offence's disadvantage, but hey, fans have cup holders and more comfy seats. There is also still loonie dog day to offset the exorbitant price of food every other day.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Twins righty and ex-Blue Jays prospect Simeon Woods-Richardson

Game #38 Minnesota Twins (22-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-20)

 

Game #37 - Toronto Blue Jays (17-20) @ Philadelphia Phillies (26-12) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw 6.1 strong innings in a 5-3 win over the Phillies

After an ugly loss yesterday due to an uncharacteristically bad start from ace Jose Berrios, the Blue Jays were looking to escape Philadelphia with the series split and snap the 2-game skid. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in LF. IKF was at the hot corner, and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Justin Turner served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid. earn the series split and (possibly) save some jobs? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer
• The Phillies tied it up in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Kyle Schwarber that scored Bryson Stott
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 6th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Justin Turner 
• A batter later, Davis Schneider singled scoring Danny Jansen
• Two batters later. Kevin Kiermaier singled home Bichette
• Aaron Nola pitching line: 5.2IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 7K 96 pitches (68 for strikes)
• The Phillies got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Stott that scored Nick Castellanos
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6.1IP 3H 2R (both earned) 2BB 6K 102 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Phillies got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Stott doubled scoring Brandon Marsh
• Jordan Romano got the last 3 outs for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Phillies 3

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt gave the Blue Jays everyrhing they needed today: length (6.1 inning) and a chance to win, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. Bassitt retired the first 6 batters he faced then 13 straight. You can't ask for much more 
• Even when they win, the bullpen tends to make fans nervous. Tonight, Jordan Romano found himself in a situation with runners on 2nd and 3rd with one out and the winning run at the plate. Lucky he was able to get Kody Clemens and ex-teammate Whit Merrifield to pop out to end the game. It was great to see Tim Mayza retire 2 of the 3 batters he faced. It has been a rough start to the season for the veteran lefty reliever
• Offensively, it was the best game in a while in terms of driving in runners in scoring position - going 5-11
• Don't look now, but Vladdy is swinging a hot stick. He now has hits in 9 of his last 10 games
• Every Blue Jays starter except Justin Turner and Daulton Varsho had at least one hit and all starters reached base at least once
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays return home for a brief weekend homestand against the Twins, who eliminated the Blue Jays in the wild card series last October, outscoring the Blue Jays 5-1. The two teams split the 6 games in the regular season last year with the Twins outscoring the Blue Jays 28-26. Yusei Kikuchi starts Friday against Twins righty Joe Ryan

Game #37 Toronto Blue Jays (16-20) @ Philadelphia Phillies (26-11)

 

Game #36 Toronto Blue Jays (16-19) @ Philadelphia Phillies (25-11)

 

Game #35 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-19) @ Washington Nationals (17-17) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a grand slam in a losing effort as the Nationals came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 11-8

After hanging on for a win with a shaky Jordan Romano doing enough to get the last three outs, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games, notch their 5th series win of the season and 3rd season series win. The big story today was expected to be the return to the bigs for Alek Manoah, who has much to prove after a disastrous 2023 season that resulted in two separate demotions. One of the ugliest moments came July 29th when he ended the season of Taylor Wall with a fastball to the face that resulted in facial fractures. There were early injury concerns for Manoah in spring training where he made just one start before being shut down with shoulder soreness. Brenden Little was optioned back to AAA-ball. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Justin Turner was back at DH after playing the hot corner yesterday (Ernie Clement was at the hot corner today). IFK got the start at 2B. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and notch their 5th series win and 3rd season series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #35 Toronto Blue Jays (16-18) @ Washington Nationals (16-17)

 

Game #34 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-18) @ Washington Nationals (16-17) - game recap

 

Kevin Kiermaier hit a 2-run HR in a 6-3 win over the Nationals

After an ugly loss after the bullpen imploded, ruining a solid start from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the three game skid and avoid their 6th series loss and 3rd season series loss of the season. Kevin Kiermaier was reinstated from the 10-day IL and got the start in CF, Nathan Lukes was optioned back to AAA-ball.  Daulton Varsho was back in LF (and batting 2nd. Bo Bichette was dropped to 5th in the batting order). Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Justin Turner was at the hot corner and Daniel Vogelbach served as DH. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 6th series loss and 3rd season series loss? Here is today's game recap.

Game #34 Toronto Blue Jays (15-18) @ Washington Nationals (16-16)

 

Game #33 Toronto Blue Jays (15-17) @ Washington Nationals (15-16) Apple TV+ Exclusive

 

Game #32 - Kansas City Royals (19-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-17) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a solo HR in a 6-1 loss to the Royals

After a tough loss yesterday thanks to a Michael Massey 2-run jack in the 2nd inning and a pair of insurance runs in the 8th inning, which was more than enough thanks to the Blue Jays lack of offense,  the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 5th series win and end the homestand on a winning note. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in RF with Daulton Varsho back in the lineup and in CF after the complete day off yesterday. Addison Barger was in LF and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. IKF was at the hot corner.  Could the Blue Jays notch their 5th series win and end the homestand with a win? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #32 Kansas City Royals (18-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-16)

Game #31 - Kansas City Royals (18-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-16) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 4-1 loss to the Royals

After a huge win last night thanks to Justin Turner's 2 HR for 3 runs,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games,  notch their 5th series win and set up a rubber match for the season series win. Yariel Rodriguez was placed on the 15-day with thoracic spine inflammation. Reliever Zach Pop was recalled to take his place on the roster  Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup and at SS after the complete day off yesterday. George Springer was in CF and Cavan Biggio was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 5th series win of the season and set up a rubber match for the season series win? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Michael Massey whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Salvador Perez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Isiah-Kiner Falefa
• Cole Ragans pitching line: 6.2 IP 4H 1R (earned) 3BB 9K 105 pitches (68 got strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 92 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 8th as Bobby Witt Jr. doubled scoring Maikel Garcia
• A batter later, Vinnie Pasquantino doubled home Witt Jr.
• James MacArthur pitched a perfect 9th for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Royals 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• After having his last start shortened due to inclement weather, Jose Berrios was solid tonight, giving up a pair of runs on five hits while walking one and striking out three. Beriios retired 9 in a row after giving up the 2-run HR. Apparently mother nature is the only thing that can slow the Blue Jays ace down. That and lack of run support.
• Thr bullpen gave up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. Both runs were charged to Erik Swanson, who has not looked like himself since returning from injury that delayed his season start a couple of weeks. You almost hope he is playing though something.
• Offensively, not much there again. Bo Bichette drove in the only run with an RBI single and was the only Blue Jay to reach base more than once.
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 5th series win to end the homestand. Chris Bassitt starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #31 Kansas City Royals (17-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-15)

 

Game #30 - Kansas City Royals (17-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-15) - game recap

 

Justin Turner hit a pair of HR and drove in 3 runs in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the Royals

After eking out a win yesterdaty on a 3-run 2nd inning, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Bo Bichette got the complete day off with IKF at SS. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and avoid their 2nd season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #30 Kansas City Royals (17-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-15)

 

Game #29 - Los Angeles Dodgers (18-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-15) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 7 strong innings in a 3-1 win over the Dodgers

After yet another loss due to the inept offense that could only muster 3 measly his yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 5 game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after a compete day off yesterday.  Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. IKF got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5- game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season,? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #29 Los Angeles Dodgers (18-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-15)

 

Game #28 - Los Angeles Dodgers (18-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-15) - game recap

Davis Schneider drove in a run and scored a run in a 4-2 loss to the Dodgers

After a disastrous blowout loss yesterday, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 4-game skid and avoid their 3rd series loss and 1st season series loss of the season. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behindd the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Addison Barger in RF. David Schneider got the start in LF and Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4 game skid and avoid their 3rd series loss and 1st season series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #28 Los Angeles Dodgers (17-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-14)

 

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)