Game #71: Toronto Blue Jays (38-32) @ Philadelphia Phillies (41-29)

 

Game #70 Toronto Blue Jays (38-32) @ Philadelphia Phillies (41-29) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a run in a losing effort as the Phillies came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 3-2

After a brutal shutout loss thanks to a lackluster offence and a rough start from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Bowden Francis got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer was in RF after DH'ing yesterday (Alejandro Kirk served as DH today). Jonatan Clase was in LF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 9th series loss? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Myles Straw singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Phillies tied it in the bottom of the 3rd on a bases loaded walk to Bryson Stott that forced in Nick Castellanos
• A batter later, Otto Kemp was hit by a pitch to force in Max Kepler
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 3.2IP1H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 74 pitches (41 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Phillies took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Kepler whacked a solo blast to right
• Mattt Strahm pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Phillies 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:-

• Bowden Francis battled through 3.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on a hit while walking 3 and striking out 4. Command was a big issue and that made this start very inefficient. Francis needs a reset. The Blue Jays might want to check him out physically or give him an IL stint just to give him a break and let him work through things. A certain Blue Jays hall of famer, Roy Halladay, was sent all the way back to single-A, where he reworked his delivery, and ended up throwing a perfect game in 2010, winning 2 Cy Young awards and making the all-star team eight times. Francis might need something similar, but running him out every 5 days is not helping him work through the issues he is battling, whether it be mechanical, physical or both. Plus it's forcing the bullpen to pitch even more when the Blue Jays are having bullpen days in Max Scherzer's rotation spot.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 4.1innings. Chad Green was tagged with the loss after Max Kepler took him deep. Home runs have been a big problem for Green, who has now allowed 9 this season in 30 appearances, so pretty much one every three appearances. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Myles Straw and Vladdy both drove in a run. Guerrero Jr. has certainly not lived up to his 500 million deal that will kick in next season. 8HR and 30ish RBI won't cut it. He needs to be closer to his 2021 season, where he finished 2nd in AL MVP voting with 48HR and 111RBI. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid, avoid being swept for the 3rd time this season and end the road trip with a win. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Phillies righty Zach Wheeler.

Game #70: Toronto Blue Jays (38-31) @ Philadelphia Phillies (40-29)

 

Game #69 Toronto Blue Jays (38-31) @ Philadelphia Phillies (40-29) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk had a pair of hits in an 8-0 shutout loss to the Phillies

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Philadelphia. The Blue Jays won  of 3 in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Phillies 14-10. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirke behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Davis Schneider in LF and Addison Barger in RF. Andres Gimenez was back in the lineup at 2B after the complete day off Wednesday. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Phillies opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Brandon Marsh doubled scoring JT Realmuto. Otto Kemp was thrown out at home on the play
• Two batters later, Kyle Schwarber hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Marsh and Trea Turner
• The Philles added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Kemp singled scoring Realmuto
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 4H 4R (all earned) 4BB 7K 95 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Ranger Suarez pitching line: 7IP 4H 0R 1BB 9K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Phillies added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Reamuto doubled scoring Max Kepler
• Three batters later, Realmuto scored on a sac fly by Marsh
• A batter later, Turner singled scoring Bryce Stott
• Final score: Phillies 8 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking 4 and striking out 7. After a rough 1st two innings, Gausman settled down and retired 9 in a a row to end his start. Not a real efficient game, and the Blue Jays needed length from him with a struggling Bowden Francis on the bump tomorrow.
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and a walk while striking out 3 over the last a3 innings. Eric Swanson was charged with 3 of the runs. He has definitely declined since he started with the Blue Jays. His injury problems the lsst couple of years are a major factor
• Offensively, Alejandro Kirk, Ernie Clement and Davis Schneider all reached base multiple times. 
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Bowden Francis starts against Phillies lefty Cristopher Sanchez

Game #69 Toronto Blue Jays (38-30) @ Philadelphia Phillies (39-29)

 

Game #68 Toronto Blue Jays (38-30) @ St Louis Cardinals (36-32) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the winning run on a sac fly in a 5-2 comeback win over the Cardinals

After eking out a win yesterday,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 4th series sweep and 3rd season series sweep. Nathan Lukes was placed on the 7- day concussion IL and Will Robertson's contract was selected from the AAA-roster and added to the MLB roster. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Vlad was back in the lineup and at 1B after the compete day off yesterday. George Springer was in the field in RF after DH'ing yesterday. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 4th series sweep and 3rd season series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Cardinals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Wilson Contreras singled scoring Masyn Winn 
• The Cardinals added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Yohel Pozo whacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Bo Bichette singled scoring Tyler Heineman 
• Three batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a sac fly by George Springer 
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the  4th on a sac fly by Bichette that scored Myles Straw 
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Jonatan Clase 
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 72 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Ernie Clement smacked a solo blast to left
• Matthew Liberatore pitching line: 5IP 8H 5R (3 earned) 1BB 4K 90 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Yariel Rodriguez threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season 
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Cardinals 2

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 4.1 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. He made a throwing error on a pickoff attempt in the 1st inning and was taken yard in the 2nd inning.  He hit a batter in the 3rd inning. Lauer wasn't super efficient today. At least tomorrow is an off-day
• The bullpen threw 4.2 shutout innings, giving up 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 7. Yariel Rodriguez, who got the save, and Braydon Fisher retired every batter they faced.
• With Nathan Lukes and Anthony Santander both on the IL, the Blue Jays outfield depth will be tested. George Springer will see reps in RF and maybe CF. Myles Straw and Jonatan Clase will platoon in CF and Clase could see time in LF, along with Alan Roden and Davis Schneider. Addison Barger could start in RF.
• The offense continues to get timely hits. They erased the 2-run deficit in the 3rd inning on an RBI single from Bo Bichette, who drove in what was the winning run on a sac fly an inning later, and a sac fly by George Springer, who has been a pleasant surprise this season. Vlad scored the game-tying run and drove in the 1st insurance run in the 4th inning. Ernie Clement went yard in the 5th to put the game away.
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays resume the road trip in Philadelphia. The Blue Jays won  of 3 in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Phillies 14-10. Kevin Gausman starts against Phillies lefty Ranger Suarez 

Game #68 Toronto Blue Jays (37-30) @ St. Louis Cardinals (36-31)

 

Game #67 Toronto Blue Jays (36-30) @ St. Louis Cardinals (36-30)

 

Game #66 Toronto Blue Jays (36-30) @ St Louis Cardinals (36-30) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in the winning run in a 5-4 comeback win over the Cardinals in 10 innings

After dropping a game yesterday after another subpar start from Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win as they continued the road trip in St. Louis. The Blue Jays swept the season series last year, outscoring the Cardinals 14-7. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was in the field in RF after DH'ing yesterday (Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH today with Ernie Clement at SS. Davis Schneider was in LF and Jonatan Clase was in CF. 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 1st as George Springer doubled scoring Addison Barger
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Bo Bichette singled scoring Ernie Clement 
• Andre Pallante pitching line: 6IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 95 pitches (60 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6.2IP 4H 0R 2BB 1K 89 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk hammered a solo bomb just over the wall in desd center
• The Cardinals got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Wilson Contreras singled scoring Victor Scott II
• A batter later,  Ivan Herrera belted a3- run jack to left; also scoring Masyn Winn and Contreras
• The Blue jays tied it up in the top of the 9th as Jonatan Clase drilled a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th as Kirk doubled home Addison Barger
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 10th for his 16th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Cardinals 4 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Jose Berrios fired 6.2 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking 2 and striking out 1. The most important stat was the innings pitched after another subpar start from Bowden Francis.  Spencer Turnbull has been recalled and he has built up enough to handle roughly 80 pitches. Trouble is, Turnbull didn't looked great in his appearances in the minors and his velocity is in question.  Berrios, Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt need to pitch their best every turn and that is asking a lot. 
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 3 hits while watlking 1 and striking out 6 over the last 3.1 innings. Gutsy move by John Schneider to run Yariel Rodriguez out for another inning after ge blew the save in the 8th inning. Rodriguez was credited with the win. 
• The veterans did the damage offensively tonight. George Springer and Bo Bichete had RBI hits the first two innings and catcher Alejandro Kirk went deep in the 8th inning and doubled home the winning run in the 10th inning
• The Blue Jays will have a tough decision to make as to who is sent down when Anthony Santander returns to the lineup. Both Jonatan Clase, who hit a game-tying home run in the 9th, and Davis Schneider have shown they deserve the roster spot
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and their 11th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Cardinals righty Miles Mikolas 

Game #66 Toronto Blue Jays (35-30) @ St. Louis Cardinals (36-29)

 

Game #65 Toronto Blue Jays (35-29) @ Minnesota Twins (34-30)

 

Game #64 Toronto Blue Jays (35-29) @ Minnesota Twins (34-30) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run HR in a 5-4 win over the Twins

After a blow out win on the strength of with runs over 2 innings,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 10th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win.  Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins and 10 series wins? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Tyler Heineman whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right 
• The Twins got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Ryan Jeffers was forced in when Ty France was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded
• A batter later, Carlos Correa was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Royce Lewis
• The Twins took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Matt Wallner belted a solo jack to right
• Chris Paddack pitching line: 6IP 4H 2R (both earned) 2BB 2K 86 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 4H 3R (all earned) 3BB 5K 104 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 8th as George Springer whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Addison Barger
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Heineman
• The Twins got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Kody Clemens hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• Jeff Hoffman got the last 3 outs for his 15th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Twins 4

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. After giving up a leadoff walk to start the game, Gausman retired 9 in a row. Then he struggled through the 4th inning, loading the bases and then allowing 2 runs on a hit batter and a walk. I found it odd that Pete Walker didn't come out to calm Gausman, who did eventually escape the jam. The Blue Jays needed Gausmsan to get as deep in the game as possible with Bowden Francis, who has been unreliable this season, set to start tomorrow.
• The bullpen gave up a run on three hits while walking 1 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Brayden Fisher was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. After giving up a solo HR, Jeff Hoffman nailed down the save, the 15th on the season for him.
• Tyler Heineman continues to take advantage of his playing time. Defensively, he did a nice job relaying the ball to first on the double play that ended the 4th inning, extending the Blue Jays lead to 2 runs with a solo shot in the 2nd inning and scoring a key insurance run in the 9th that turned out to be the difference in the game. The Blue Jays should consider giving Heineman more playing time, whether it's behind the plate to giving Alejandro Kirk an extra day off to preserve his body, or as DH once in a while.
• Another Blue Jay who has impressed is George Springer. The veteran outfielder/DH went deep in the 8th inning to give the Blue Jays the lead
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 5 games and complete their 4th sweep of the season. Bowden Francis starts against Twins righty Jon Ryan

Game #64 Toronto Blue Jays (34-29) @ Minnesota Twins (34-29)

 

Game #63 Toronto Blue Jays (34-29) @ Minnesota Twins (34-29) - game recap

 

Bo Bichettte hit a 2-run RBI single to give the Blue Jays the lead in a 6-4 comeback win over the Twins

After blowing out the Phillies on the strength of a combined 8 runs in the 2nd and 3rd innings, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the winning streak to 3 games. The Twins won the season series last year, but the Blue Jays outscored the Twins 31-22. It was another bullpen day. Paxton Schultz got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger in RF. Andres Gimenez was back in the lineup and at 2B after the day off yesterday. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Jonatan Clase was in CF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Trevor Larnach hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• The Twins added a run in the bottom of the 2nd on a ground out hit by Kody Clemens that scored Brooks Lee
• Two batters later,  Christian Vasquez  doubled scoring Royce Lewis 
• Paxton Schultz pitching line: 2IP 4H 3R (all earned) 0BB 1K 40 pitches (24 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got a pair back in the top of the 4th as Addison Barger annihilated a 5-run bomb to right- center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 5th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Andres Gimenez and Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Bailey Ober pitching line: 7IP 5H 5R (all earned 1BB 4K 87 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring  Guerrero Jr. 
• The Twins  got one back in he bottom half of the inning as Lewis singled scoring Larnach
• Jeff Hoffman pitchrd a scoreless 9th for his 14th save of the season
• Final score; Blue Jays 6 Twins 4

My Take:

• Paxton Schultz battled through 2 innings,  giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 1. I'm going to keep saying this every time the Blue Jays have a bullpen day,  but they are taking a huge risk by doing so.  First, it puts added pressure on the other 4 starters in the rotation to pitch deep into the game.  Second,  the bullpen is eventually going to be ineffective due to overuse and there will be injuries.  Yimi Garcia end Nick Sandin have already paid the price and both missed significant time on the IL. if there are no setbacks, Max Scherzer could be ready to return to the rotation soon. Bowden Frances can't seem to find his game,  which has turned into a second bullpen game some nights. The blue jays need to do something soon because Alek Manoah will not be ready to pitch until after the all star break
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 9 over the last 7 innings. Mason Fluharty was the only teliever to retire every batter he faced
• The offence was powered by Addison Barger (2-run HR), Bo Bichette (2-run single), George Springer (solo HR) and Alejandro Kirk (RBI single)
• The Blue Jays never really feel out of games this season. Last season, the fans could have turned their attention to a certain hockey game once the Twins were up by 3 after 2 innings. Not so this season.
• The Blue Jays were 2-3 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 10th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Twins righty Chris Paddack

Game #63 Toronto Blue Jays (33-29) @ Minnesota Twins (34-28)

 

Game #62 Philadelphia Phillies (37-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-29) - game recap

 

Myles Straw drove in three runs and scored twice in a 9-1 rout over the Phillies

After a walk off win over the Phillies thanks to Alejandro Kirk's RBI single off old battery mate Jordan Romano,  the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins and notch their 9th series win of the season.  Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field in RF after DH'ig yesterday (Alejandro Kirk served as DH today.) Jonatan Clase was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Myles Straw doubled scoring Davis Schneider 
• Two batters later, Tyler Heineman doubled home Straw
• A batter batter,  Bo Bichette hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Heineman 
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Straw singled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Ernie Clement
• Two batters, Heineman singled scoring Schneider and Straw 
• Jesus Luzardo pitching line: 3.2IP 9H 8R (all earned) 2BB 2K 61 pitches (38 for strikes)
• The Phillies got one back in the top of the 6th as Kyle Schwarber singled scoring Trea Turner
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Kirk singled scoring George Springer
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (earned) 2BB 6K 99 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Phillies 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassit threw 7 strong innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. He retired 9 of the first 11 batters he faced. Bassitt has been one of the pleasant surprises this season. The wily veteran has given the Blue Jays a chance to win in most of his starts and has pitched into the 6th inning in 10 of his 12 starts. No doubt he'll have teams looking to add the veteran starter in free agency in the off-season.
• The bullpen threw 2 perfect innings and Mason Fluharty recorded 2 strikeouts.
• The offense did most of the damage in the 2nd and 3rd innings, combining for 8 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks. Bo Bichette (2-run HR), Myles Straw (3RBI, 2 runs scored) and Tyler Heineman (3RBI, 1 run scored) did the damage
• The Blue Jays have been doing well against lefty starters, something that has been an achilles heel in past seasons
• The Blue Jays were 5-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road again as they begin a weekend series in Minnesota. The Twins won the season series last year, but the Blue Jays outscored the Twins 31-22. It will be a bullpen day for the Blue Jays, who have not announced an opener yet. The Twins will counter with righty Bailey Ober.

Game #62 Philadelphia Phillies (37-24) v. Toronto Blue Jays (32-29)

 

Game #61 Philadelphia Phillies (37-24) @ Toronto Blue Jays (32-29) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk hit a walkoff single in the bottom of the 9th to lift the Blue Jays to a 2-1 comeback win over the Phillies

After a tough loss due to a very rough start for Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Alan Roden was in LF, Jonatan Clase was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Phillies opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Nick Castellanos whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette tripled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Mick Abel pitching line: 5.1IP 3H 1R (earned) 0BB 2K 78 pitches (52 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 89 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Alejandro Kirk singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Phillies 1 while walking 2 and striking out 5. 

My Take:

• Jose Berrios fired 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while  while walking 2 and striking out 5. The most important stat was that he was able to ge through 6 innings. Bowden Francis got only 5 outs yesterday and the Blue Jays will need another bullpen day later in the week with the vacant 5th spot in the rotation coming up.
• The bullpen threw 3 shutout innings, allowing 1 hit, walking none and striking out 3. Jeff Homan was credited with the win
• The offense did just enough to prevail. Bo Bichette drove in a run with a triple and Alejandro Kirk walked it off against old battery mate Jordan Romano. 
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position
• They definitely need another starting pitcher and a bat that can produce consistently
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 9th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Phillies lefty Jesus Luzardo

Game #61 Philadelphia Phillies (37-23) v. Toronto Blue Jays (31-29)

 

Game #60 Philadelphia Phillies (37-23) @ Toronto Blue Jays (31-29) - game recap

 

Addison Barger homered for the 4th consecutive game in a 8-3 loss to the Phillies

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the homestand as the Phillies came to town. The Phillies took the season series 3-1 last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 27-17. Andre Gimenez came off the 10-day IL and got the start at 2B and Tyler Heineman was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL and was available off the bench. Michael Stefanic and Ali Sanchez were both DFA'd. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after a half day off as DH on Sunday. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger in RF. Davis Schneider got the start in LF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 6 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Phillies opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Trea Turner whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Bryson Stott
• A batter later, Bryce Harper smacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Phillies bullpen
• Four batters later, Max Kepler singled scoring Alec Bohm
• Three batters later, Stott singled home Nick Castellanos and Kepler
• The Phillies added a run in the top of the 2nd on a sac fly by Castellanos that scored Harper 
• Bowden Frances pitching line: 1.2IP 7H 7R (6 earned) 2BB 2K 58 pitches (39 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Davis Schneider belted a solo jack to the opposite field in right-center and into the Phillies bullpen 
• Christopher Sanchez pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 4BB 4K 96 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Phillies added a run in the top of the 8th as Turner whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger hammered a 2-run bomb off the basing of the 3rd deck. It was the 4th straight game where Barger had a home run; also scoring Alejandro Kirk
• Final score: Phillies 8 Blue Jays 3

My Take:-

• Bowden Frances was lit up for 7 runs on 7 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 (and he hit a batter). There was nothing positive about this outing, but it has to be concerning to John Schneider and co that the Blue Jays essentially have 3 starters they can rely on to go deep into the game. Frances had a nice run last season, but it certainly hasn't translated to success this season. It's clear that batters have adjusted to him and he has no answer. The Blue Jays don't have much choice but to keep him in the rotation until Max Scherzer, assuming no setbacks in the rehab, returns and/or Spencer Turnbull has finished building up and is set to join the rotation (hopefully soon
• The bullpen gave up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8 over the last 6.1 innings. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced. Eric Lauer has established himself as a valuable long reliever. He threw 4 shutout innings, only walking one batter and striking out 2.
• The red hot Addison Barger homered for the 4th straight game, putting him halfway to the record of homering in 8 consecutive games. Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey Jr. and Dale Long all homered in 8 consecutive days. Kendrys Morales strung together a 7-game home run streak as a Blue Jay in 2018. 
• Davis Schneider, doing his best to stick in the bigs, also homered and was the only other Blue Jay to reach base multiple times
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Phillies righty Mick Abel.

Game #60 Philadelphia Phillies (36-23) v. Toronto Blue Jays (31-28)

 

Game #59 Athletics (23-37) @Toronto Blue Jays (31-28) - game recap

 

Addison Barger hit a 3-run HR in the 8th inning to lift the Blue Jays to an 8-4 comeback win over the A\s

After hanging on to edge past the A's, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 3rd sweep of the season. Daulton Varsho was placed on the 10-day IL with a hamstring strain. Eric Swanson was activated off the 60-day IL. Davis Schneider was recalled from AAA-ball and got the start at 2B. Finally, lefty Easton Lucas was optioned to AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. George Springer was in the field in RF after DH'ing yesterday. Myles Straw was in CF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 3rd sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The A's opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a ground out by Tyler Soderstrom that scored Lawrence Butler
• Soderstrom was ejected for arguing balls and strikes in the top of the 3rd.
• The A's added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Luis Urias doubled scoring Brent Rooker and Miguel Andujar
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 4.2IP 8H 3R (all earned) 2BB 7K 96 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer singled scoring Myles Straw
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Vladimir G-uerrero Jr. Springer was tagged out on the play when he was caught hopping up and down after apparently tweaking his ankle sliding into 3rd base.
• JP Sears pitching line: 5IP 7H 2R (both scored) 0BB 3K 84 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The A's added a run in the top of the 8th on a sac fly by Jacob Wilson that scored Willie MacIver
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger whacked a 3-run blast to right-center; also scoring Springer and Alan Roden
• Three batters later, Nathan Lukes singled scoring Ernie Clement
• Three batters later, Guerrero Jr. doubled home Davis Schneider
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 A's 4

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 4.2 innnings, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7. It was clear that Gausman was struggling with command, yanking several pitches well outside the strike zone. He showed frustration with himself and at the umpire when he felt he should have gotten the strike call. Umpires are human though and less likely to call strikes if a pitcher isn't consistently in the zone. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 7, Mason Fluharty was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. Eric Swanson, in his season debut, was credited with the win.
• Let's talk about Davis Schneider. He was given a second chance when Daulton Varsho went down with the hamstring strain. He had a mixed day today. At the plate, he cracked a single down the line, struck out on the next turn at the plate and drew a walk. He made a bad throw after a diving stop on a ground ball. Schneider is going to have to play really well not to be optioned back when Varsho returns, and he could very well be the move Tuesday when Andres Gimenez is expected to come off the IL.
• The offense continues to find ways to come through. Today, it was a 6-run 8th-inning rally that lifted the Blue Jays to victory. Addison Barger started it off with a 3-run HR, homering for the 3rd straight game. Vlad drove in a pair and scored once. 
• Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit and all but Bo Bichette and Jonatan Clase either scored a run or drove in a run
• The Blue Jays were 5-10 with runners in scoring position. 
• You have to feel for the A's, who have now lost 17 of 18 games. They are playing in a temporary stadium and will be moving in a couple of seasons to their new home in Las Vegas. It has to be hard on the A's players with that uncertainty and losing all the time. As bad as the Blue Jays have been, they've never endured a 100 loss season and, except for this year, the Blue Jays have been playing in the tough AL east division.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays continue the homestand against the Phillies, who won the season series last year 3-1, outscoring the Blue Jays 27-17. Bowden Francis starts against Phillies righty Zack Wheeler.

Game #59 Oakland Athletics (23-36) v. Toronto Blue Jays (30-28)

 

Game #58 Athletics (23-36) @ Toronto Blue Jays (30-28) - game recap

 

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George Springer hit a pair of solo home runs in an 8-7 win over the A's

After hanging on for another win in which the Blue Jays scored double digit runs, the Blue Jays were trying to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 7th series win of the season. Prior to the game, lefty Easton Lucas was recalled from AAA-all and righty Jose Urena was DFA'd. Braydon Fisher got the start with Ali Sanchez behind the plate. Jonatan Clase got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The A's opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Tyler Soderstrom hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; alsl scoring Jacob Wilson and Brent Rooker 
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger annihilated a 2-run bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Four batters, Nathan Lukes singled scoring George Springer and Daulton Varsho
• The A's retook the lead in the bottom of the 2nd as Denzel Clarke drilled a 2-run blast to the second deck to left; also scoring Luis Arias 
• Braydon Fisher pitching line: 1.1IP 4H 5R (all earned) 1BB 1K 35 pitches (23 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• A batter later, Daulton Varsho left the game in the bottom of the 3rd when he pulled his hamstring trying to stretch a double into a triple
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as  Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a wild pitch by Gunnar Hoglund that scored Ernie Clement
• Gunnar Hoglund pitching line: 6IP 10H 8R (all earned) 2BB 1K 93 pitches (59 for strikes) 
• The A's got a pair back in the top of the 9th as Rooker hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Lawrence Butler
• Jeff Hoffman got the last 3 outs for his  13th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Jays 7

My Take:

•  Braydon Fisher was roughed up for 5 runs on 4 hits and a wal while striking out 1 over 1.1 innings. It was another bullpen day, an occurrence expected to continue another month at least with Max Scherzer progressing in his thumb rehab, but with more hurdles to clear. Spencer Turnbull is still building up, and he is a wild card at best. Nobody has been able to take the proverbial bull by the horns and give the Blue Jays any more than 4-5 innings tops.
• The bullpen threw 6.2 shutout innings (allowing 5 hits, walking 3 and striking out 5) until Jeff Hoffman gave up a bomb to cut the lead to one run and then gave up a double. The only reason he didn't blow the save was thanks to a spectacular diving catch by Ernie Clement to end the game. Yariel Rodriguez was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• You have to feel for Daulton Varsho, who missed the first few weeks of the season as he completed rehab on off-season shoulder surgery. Now, he's pulled his left hamstring, an injury that could require several weeks to heal if it's as bad as it looked on TV
• The offense continues to show consistency. They immediately responded to being down three runs with four of their own in the 1st inning. Bo Bichette is showing some power, hitting his 3rd home run in 4 games, George Springer went deep twice and Addison Barger reached the second deck in right for the second straight day. The old adage is true: hitting is contagious.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 5 games and complete their 3rd sweep of the season and 3rd season series win. Kevin Gausman starts against A'S lefty JP Sears

Game #58 Oakland Athletics (23-35) v. Toronto Blue Jays (29-28)

 

Game #57 Athletics (23-35) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-28) - game recap

 

Myles Straw drove in 2 runs and scored 3 times in an 11-7 win over the A's

After a massive 12-0 shutout over the A's, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and to get above the .500 mark. Anthony Santander was placed on the 10-day IL with right shoulder inflammation.  Alan Roden was recalled from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B

Game Highlights:

• The A's opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Tyler Soderstrom hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Myles Straw singled scoring Ernie Clement
• Three batters later, Addison Barger was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• A batter later,  Straw scored on a sac fly by George Springer 
• The A's for one back in the top of the 3rd as Jacob Wilson singled home Lawrence Butler
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Clement whacked a solo blast to left-center 
• Two batters later, Straw doubled scoring Barger
• A batter later,  Nathan Lukes sticked home Straw 
• Jeffrey Springs pitching line: 2IP 6H 6R (all earned) 6BB 2K 72 pitches (41 for strikes)
• The A's got one back in the top of the 4th as Shea Langeliers drilled a solo bomb to left-center 
• The A's got a pair back in the top of the 5th as Brent Rooker doubled scoring Denzel Clark and Butler
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Springer singled scoring Straw
• A batter later, Kirk singled scoring Guerrero Jr and Springer
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 7H 5R (all earned) 2BB 6K  82 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Barger hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• Three batters later Bo Bichette singled home Lukes
• The A's got one back in the top of the 9th as Clark singled scoring Miguel Andujar
• A batter later, Butler doubled scoring Butler
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 A's 7

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5 innings, giving up 5 runs on 7 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. He gave up runs in every inning but the 1st inning. The A's took him deep twice. This start was not Bassitt at his best, but he does seem to struggle against the A's for one reason or another.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. Mason Fluharty was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offesively, it was another team effort with every starter getting at least one hit and all but Daulton Varsho either scoring a run or driving in a run. The Blue Jays have had much better at-bats and it's showing on the scoreboard against a weaker A's ball club
• The Blue Jays made the right move putting Anthony Santander on the IL, but that should have been done a couple of weeks back after he missed time in Seattle
• The Blue Jays were 5-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and 8th series win of the season.

Game #57 Oakland Athletics (23-34) v. Toronto Blue Jays (28-28)

 

Game #56 Athletics (23-34) @ Toronto Blue Jays (28-28) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in 5 runs in a 12-0 shutout win over the A's

After eking out a shutout win thanks to a clutch 2- run HR off the bat of Bo Bichette,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and get back to .500 as they began a 4-game series against the A's. The two squads split the season series last year, with the Blue Jays outscoring the A's 21-16. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Anthony Santander in RF, Jonatan Clase in LF and Myles Straw in CF. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup at SS after the complete day off yesterday. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row and get back to .500? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights;

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement drilled a 3- run blast to left center; also scoring Alejandro Kirk and Anthony Santander
• Four batters later, Bo Bichette doubled scoring Jonatan Clase
• A batter later,  Vladimir Guerrero Jr hammered a 2-run bomb off the basing of the 3rd deck in left-center; also scoring Bichette
•  Four batters later, Clement doubled scoring George Springer and Kirk
• Jacob Lopez pitching line: 1.2IP 6H 7R (all earned) 1BB 0K 43 pitches (24 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Bichette belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Clase
• Two batters later,  Springer whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 2BB 9K 90 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Kirk that scored Addison Barger
• Final score Blue Jays 12 A's 0

My Take:

• Jose Berrios pitched 6 solid shutout innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking out 9. He retried the first 9 batters he faced. Berrios must have been thankful that he had such a big lead to work with. 
• The bullpen threw 3 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits, walking none and striking out 4. The big lead allowed the Blue Jays to avoid using their high leverage pitchers. 
• The offence did most of the damage in the 2nd and 3rd innings where they scored a combined 11 runs on 10 hits, and 3 walks. Ernie Clement drove in 5 runs in the 3rd inning
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Anthony Santander had a hit and all but Michael Stefanic and Myles Straw either scored a run or drove in a run.
• The Blue Jays were 6-11 with runners in scoring position 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 3 straight wins and to get above .500. Chris Bassitt starts against A's lefty Jeffrey Springs

Game #56 Oakland Athletics (23-33) v. Toronto Blue Jays (27-28)

 

Game #55 Toronto Blue Jays (27-28) @ Texas Rangers (27--30) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run HR in the 9th to lift the Blue Jays to a 2-0 shutout win over the Rangers

After a tough shutout loss due to the inept offense, the Blue Jays were looking to end the road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season. Paxton Schultz got the start with Ali Sanchez behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the half day off as DH with George Springer in RF and Nathan Lukes in LF. Bo Bichette was completely off after DH'ing yesterday (Ernie Clement was at SS). Could the Blue Jays end the road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Paxton Schultz pitching line: 2.2IP 1H 0R 0BB 4K 45 pitches (28 for strikes)
• Tyler Mahle pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 3BB 5K 92 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 9th as Bo Bichette belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 12th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Rangers 0

My Take:

• Paxton Schultz got the first 8 outs on the regularly scheduled bullpen day on what should be Max Scherzer's spot in the rotation, but the aging righty lasted just 3 innings in his first start and still has major hurdles to pass as he tries to get over the 50 pitch mark, the point where his thumb has started barking. Scherzer was a risky signing to begin with given his age and injury history. Since then the Blue Jays have pretty much been trying to cobble it together every 5 days. It hasn't helped that Bowden Francis, whose turn is the day before this start, hasn't been pitching more than 5 innings and if Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios or Chris Bassitt has a bad start, as happened to Bassitt over the weekend, it puts a lot of pressure on the bullpen every 5th day. Schultz isnt trusted to go more than once through the rotation. Other options like Eric Lauer and Easton Lucas have had varying degrees of success. The Blue Jays seem to like having the opener go through the lineup once and then turn it over to the next man up for the next few innings. This works ok if the opener is effective. The trouble occurs if the game goes to extra innings or a lot of pitchers are needed that day due to injury or ineffectiveness. It impacts the next few games. Here's hoping either Scherzer comes back soon, or Spencer Turnbull, currently building up in the minors, can end the vicious cycle of bullpen days every 5th day
• The bullpen was excellent again tonight, firing 6.1 shutout and hitless innings, walking three batters and striking out 9. The bullpen, when rested is capable of stealing games. However, they have had to be near perfect lately with how bad the offence has been
• Bo Bichette got a clutch 2-run HR in the 9th, That was about it offensively today
• Hitting witth runners in scoring position has absolutely been an achilles heel latey. The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• You have to think John Schneider is going to be the scapegoat soon on this disappointing season that is trending much like last year. Ross Atkins shouldn't be allowed to fire another manager, but this team needs a wakeup call and a new manager could do that. The Blue Jays have way too much invested in this season with the competitive window closing. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home where they will begin a series against the Athletics. The Blue Jays and A's split the season series last year, with the Blue Jays outscoring the A's 21-16. Ace Jose Berrios starts against A's lefty Jacob Lopez

Game #55 Toronto Blue Jays (26-28) @ Texas Rangers (27-29)

 

Game #54 Toronto Blue Jays (26-28) @ Texas Rangers (27-29) - game recap

 

Bowden Francis threw 5 shutout innings in a 2-0 shutout loss to the Rangers

After eking out a win over the Rangers thanks to some excellent piching from Kevin Gausman and closer Jeff Hoffman, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 wins in a row, to get back to a .500 record and 7 series wins on the season. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in LF after the complete day off yesterday. Vlad was back in the field after a half day off yesterday as DH (Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH today with Ernie Clement getting the start at SS). Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games, get back to .500 and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Nathan Eovaldi pitching line: 2IP 2H 0R 1BB 2K 39 pitches (22 for strikes)
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 5IP 3H 0R 1BB 6K 75 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Rangers took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Josh Jung singled scoring Sam Haggerty
• A batter later, Wyatt Langford scored on a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk on a failed pickoff attempt at 3rd base
• Robert Garcia pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 2 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Bowden Francis threw 5 shutout innings, scattering 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 6. Francis retired 11 in a row at one point. Once again, John Schneider didn't trust his starter to get through an inning. He had several easy innings and could have managed getting through 6 innings
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs (1 unearned) on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Neither Yariel Rodriguez nor Chad Green retired every batter they faced
• The offense could not take advantage of any of their opportunities to score. Case in point, Bo Bichette led off the game with a double and was stranded at 2B.
• The Blue Jays were 0-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the disappointing road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season. It will be another bullpen game with Eric Lauer either starting or getting the bulk innings. The Rangers will counter with righty Tyler Mahle

Game #54 Toronto Blue Jays (26-27) @ Texas Rangers (26-29)

 

Game #53 Toronto Blue Jays (26-27) @ Texas Rangers (26-29) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman pitched 8 strong innings in a 2-1 win over the Rangers

After an ugly shutout loss yesterday due to dreadful pitching and offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and start the week with a win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was back in the field in RF after missing several days and several days as DH as he nursed hip and shoulder ailments. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. Michael Stefanic got the start at 2B. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the week with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Rangers got one back in the bottom of the inning as Wyatt Langford whacked a solo blast to left
• Jacob deGrom pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 0K 81 pitches (50 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 96 pitches (72 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 11th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Rangers 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 8 excellent innings, giving up a run on 5 hits, walking none and striking out 6. Gausman retired 9 of the first ten batters he faced and his only mistake was to Wyatt Langford, who took him deep in the 4th inning. The 5th inning was the only time the Rangers got a runner into scoring position
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect inning to notch his 11th save of the season. This appearance was encouraging to see since he had been struggling of late and blown three saves. Like Yimi Garcia, Brandon Little and some other relievers, he has been used heavily early in the season with the starting pitchers having a shorter leash.
• The offense did enough to win today with Daulton Varsho going deep and Alejamdro Kirk driving in an insurance run on a sac fly. The lineup is still not set well since the top three in the order are hitting and the Blue Jays are getting little to no production from hitters 5-9 in the batting order. In fact, Anthony Santander, Ernie Clement, Michael Stefanic, and Nathan Lukes were a combined 0-12 with Lukes and Stefanic each managing to draw a walk. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and 7 series wins on the season. Bowden Francis starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi.

Game #53 Toronto Blue Jays (25-27) @ Texas Rangers (26-28)

 

Game #52 Toronto Blue Jays (25-27) @ Tampa Bay Rays (26-26) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. got a hit and drew a walk in a 13-0 shutout loss to the Rays

After a second straight 3-1 loss due to the inept offense, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season. Tyler Heineman was placed on the 7-day concussion list after several blows off his mask his last start behind the plate against the Padres. Ali Sanchez was recalled from AAA-ball and got the start behind the plate with Chris Bassitt pitching. Lefty Josh Walker was DFA'd. George Springer was back in RF after a half day off as DH yesterday (Anthony Santander served as DH today). Jonatan Clase was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights: 

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Brandon Lowe whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Josh Lowe 
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Junior Caminera doubled scoring Josh Lowe 
• A batter later, Brandon Lowe scored on a fielder's choice hit by Jordan Aranda
• A batter after that, Chandler Simpson singled scoring Caminera
• Two batters later, Aranda was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Kameron Misner
• A batter later, Ben Rortvedt singled scoring Simpson and Taylor Wall
• A batter later, Misner scored on a ground-rule double hit by Yandy Diaz
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 4IP 9H 5R (all earned) 2BB 2K 82 pitches (5-1 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a ground out hit by Rortvedt that scored Walls
• A batter later, Misner scored on a ground out hit by Diaz
• Two batters later, Curtis Mead smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Christopher Morel
• Ryan Pepiot pitching line: 7IP 3H 0R 1BB 5K 91 pitches (60 for strikes)
• Final score: Rays 13 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 4 innings, giving up 5 runs on 9 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2. Before he fateful 5th inning, he had barely sat down in the dugout and was forced to go right back out since the Blue Jays batters were swing happy and went down in order on jusr 4 pitches. It was clear early that the heat was effecting Bassitt's effectiveness. This blowout is not on him
• The bullpen was even worse. Mason Fluharty allowed 4 runs on 3 hits and a walk and didn't record an out. Paxson Schutltz also gave up 4 runs, but all 4 were unearned. The best pitcher on the day was a poaition player, infielder Michael Stefanic. He retired every batter he faced on just 7 pitches
• The offence mustered just 4 hits and drew a walk. The most egregious inning was the top of the 4th where they basically swung at the first pitch and barely let Chris Bassitt sit down after a grueling 25 pitch inning for him. Vlad was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times. It is high time to give Anthony Santander at least a 10-day  IL stint to reset himself and heal the nagging hip and shoulder injuries. Santander struck out 3 times.
• It was so bad today offensively, that the Blue Jays didn't even get a runner into scoring position.
• Fun fact, Stefanic was the 1st Blue Jays pitcher to get a hit since Trent Thornton got a pair of hits May 14, 2019 against the Giants 
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Texas to take on the Rangers. The Blue Jays won the season series 4-2 last year, outscoring the Rangers 32-26. Kevin Gausman starts tomorrow's game against Rangers righty Jacob deGrom.

Game #52 Toronto Blue Jays (25-26) @ Tampa Bay Rays (25-26)

 

Game #51 Toronto Blue Jays (25-25) @ Tampa Bay Rays (24-26)

 

Game #50 Toronto Blue Jays (25-24) @ Tampa Bay Rays (23-26)

 

Game #49 San Diego Padres (27-21) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-24) - game recap

Nathan Lukes drove in the winning run in a 7-6 extra innings comeback win over the Padres

After a massive 14 run shutout win,  the Blue Jays were going for their 3rd straight win,  2nd series sweep and to get over .500 for the first time since April 21. Bowden Francis got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.  Anthony Santander got the complete day off after leaving last night's game with right hip inflammation. Daulton Varsho got the half day off as DH with Myles Straw in CF. Jonatan Clase was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games,  complete their 2nd series sweep and get above .500 for the first time since April 21? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Padres opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Gavin Sheets whacked a 2-run blast to right and into the Padres bullpen; also scoring Jackson Merrill
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 3rd on a fielder's choice hit by Daulton Varsho that scored Tyler Heineman. Sheets was charged with a fielding error on the play.
• A batter later,  Addison Bargerc singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Bichette singled scoring Jonatan Clase 
• Two batters later,  Heineman scored on a sac fly by Varsho 
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 4IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 77 pitches (47 for strikes)
• Stephen Kolek pitching line: 6IP 7H 4R (3 earned) 3BB 6K 92 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Padres tied it up in the top of the 9th as Sheets hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Merrill
• The Padres took the lead in the top of the 10th as Luis Arraez singled scoring Jose Iglesias 
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Clase singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Padres took the lead in the top of the 11th as Sheets singled scoring Manny Machado
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Varsho tripled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Three batters later, Lukes singled home Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Padres 6 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Bowden Francis gave the Blue Jays 4 innings today, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. The Blue Jays are already trying to figure out how to get through a game every 5th game. Having a starter only make it through 4 or 5 innings not only effects the bullpen on that day,  but it also puts more pressure on kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt and Jose Berrios to have a good start on their next turn and pitch deep into the game. Max Scherzer, assuming no setbacks, is several weeks from being ready to pitch. Spencer Turnbull is currently building up in the minor league system.  Neither Alek Manoah nor Rickey Tiederman will be ready to return from Tommy John surgery until after the all star break.  It's imperative that Francis figure things out because there are not any viable options to start at the moment. 
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7 over the last 6 innings. Jeff Hoffman blew his 3rd ssve of the season when Gavin Sheets took him deep in the 9th inning. You have to wonder if Hoffman is playing hurt. Braydon Fisher was credited with the win for getting the last out of the 11th inning
• The offense refused to let the Blue Jays lose, coming back three times (twice in extra innings). It was another team effort with every starter except Ernie Clement and Myles Straw either scoring a run or driving in a run. All but Vlad, Clement and Straw had a hit
• The team seems to have a better approach, at least lately, with getting timely hits. The Blue Jays were 6-21 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays head south for a 3-game weekend series in Tampa Bay. The Rays are playing at the Yankees spring training facility since Tropicana Field's roof was badly damaged by a hurricane. The Rays won the series in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 20-15. Eric Lauer starts against Rays righty Drew Rasmussen.

Game #49 San Diego Padres (27-20) v. Toronto Blue Jays (24-24)

 

-Game #48 San Diego Padres (27-20) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-24) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a grand slam in a 14-0 shutout win over the Padres

After a shutout win over the Padres on the strength of home runs off the bats of Vladdy and Anthony Santander, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win, to get back to .500 and to notch their 6th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, notch their 6th series win of the season and get back to .500? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 5th as Nathan Lukes drilled a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Randy Vasquez pitching line: 4.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 4K 73 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a fielder's choice hit by Bo Bichette that scored Addison Barger. Lukes was out at 2B on the play
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled home Clement
• Two batters later, George Springer singled scoring Bichette. Padres 3B. Manny Machado was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later, Jonatan Clase doubled scoring Guerrero Jr. and Springer
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 7IP 3H 0R 0BB 9K 92 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Bichette singled home Clement
• Two batters later, Daulton Varsho hammered a grand slam to dead center; also scoring Bichette, Lukes and Michael Stefanic
• Four batters later, Barger doubled scoring Springer
• A batter later, Clement singled home Clase
• Final score: Blue Jays Padres 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 7 shutout innings, scattering 3 hits, walking none and striking out 9. He had out streaks of 7 and 9 batters and retired the last 4 batters he faced. The most important stat of this start was the 7 innings pitched. The starting pitchers have not been pitching past 6 innings and the Blue Jays have been having a bullpen day once a week. I might have even ran Gausman out one more inning, but then again, the Blue Jays offence had a long inning in the 7th inning
• Jose Urena pitched the final 2 inings, allowing 2 hits, walking none and striking out 1. It looks like he will have a multiple inning role in the bullpen and could be the opener on bullpen days.
• The offence exploded for a season-high 14 runs, all scored in the latter half of the game. In fact, in the first 4 innings, the Blue Jays managed 2 base runners (a single by Nathan Lukes in the 3rd inning and George Springer was hit by a pitch an inning later). The whole team contributed to the onslaught with every starter but Alejandro Kirk getting a hit and all but Kirk and Anthony Santander either scoring a run or driving in a run
• The Blue Jays were 7-15 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games, complete their 2nd sweep of the season and to get above .500 for the first time since April 21. Bowden Francis starts against Padres righty Stephen Kolek

Game #48 San Diego Padres (27-19) v. Toronto Blue Jays (23-24)

 

Game #47 San Diego Padres (27-19) @ Toronto Blue Jays (23-24) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw 6 shutout innings in a 3-0 shutout win over the Padres

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened up a 3-game set against the Padres. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, outscoring the Padres 13-9. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and George Springer was in RF. The rest of the lineup was the same as Sunday's loss. 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 bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Anthony Santander smacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 1BB 6K 100 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 7IP 3H 3R (all earned) 1BB 6K 100 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 10th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Padres 0

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 6 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking 1 and striking out 6. The Padres are one of the better hitting teams in the league so it was nice to see him handle the lineup so well. At one point, he moved Ernie Clement over and the ball went right to him for an easy out. In the 1st inning, he struck out both Manny Machado and Jackson Merrill after giving up a double to Luis Arraez, who flirted with a .400 average a couple of years ago. Bassitt had an out streak of 7 outs in a row.
• The bullpen allowed just one hit while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Yariel Rodriguez and Jeff Hoffman both retired every batter they faced
• The Blue Jays got home runs from Vlad and Anthony Santander and that was the difference in the game
• The Blue Jays were 0-1 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 2 straight wins, to get back to a .500 record and to notch their 6th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Padres righty Randy Vasquez