Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (76-55) @ Miami Marlins (61-69) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 3-run HR in a  5-3 loss to the Marlins

After eking out a win yesterday thanks to a clutch base hit and some heads up defense from Bo Bichette, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season. Mason Fluharty was optioned to AAA-ball and Paxton Schultz was recalled from AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Eric Wagaman hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Marlins added 3 runs in the bottom of the 5th as Jakob Marsee tripled scoring Wagaman, Javier Sanoja and Xavier Edwards 
• The Blue Jays got 3 back in the top of the 7th as Daulton Varsho hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Ty France and Bo Bichette 
• Eury Perez pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 94 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 7K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Agustin Ramirez singled scoring Marsee 
• Tyler Phillips pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Marlins 5 Blue Jays 3

My Take: 

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. It was the bottom of the order that gave him the most trouble today with number 8 hitter Eric Wagaman taking Gausman deep. Wagaman and Blue Jays killer Javier Sanoja getting on in the 5th, along with leadoff man Xavier Edwards for Jakob Marsee to bring them all home to add three runs. Gausman has a tendency to be inconsistent, which could be a concern come playoff time where you need to limit the runs against. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1 over the last 2 innings. It was unfortunate timing that Yariel Rodrigueze ceded a run after the Blue Jays scored 3 runs in the top half of the inning. Most of the relievers have been struggling this month, which could be a sign of overuse catching up on them. It's possible Alek Manoah could be a long man out of the bullpen come September. The closer's role will be Jeff Hoffman's through the postseason. The Blue Jays just don't have any options that are reliable enough, other than Yimi Garcia, who may not be an optom as he deals with ulnar nerve impingement
• Daulton Varsho brought the Blue Jays close with a 3-run bomb in the 7th and Vlad came up with a chance give the Blue Jays the lead in the 8th, but popped out to end the inning. Bo Bichette was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times.
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• Standings wise, the Yankees and Red Sox both gained a half game in the standings with the loss and one will gain a further half game later tonight when the Bosox and Yankees face off tonight in the Bronx. The Red Sox could be as few as 4 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. If the Yankees prevail tonight, they'll be 5.5 games back for 1st in the AL East. Both the Tigers and Astros lost, keeping the Blue Jays 4 games up on the Astros for the 2nd bye into the ALDS and 2 games back of the Tigers for 1st in the AL and home field advantage through at least the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home to begin a week long homestand, starting tomorrow against the Twins. The Blue Jays took the series in Minnesota back at the beginning of June with both teams scoring 14 runs. Max Scherzer starts against Twins righty Joe Ryan.

Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (76-54) @ Miami Marlins (60-69)

 

Game #130 Toronto Blue Jays (76-54) @ Miami Marlins (60--69) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the winning run as the Blue Jays held on to edge the Marlins 7-6 in 12 innings

After a solid win thanks to an excellent Blue Jay debut for Shane Bieber and a 3-RBI, 2 runs scored effort from Daulton Varsho, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as last night. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays open the scoring in the top of the 3rd as George Springer singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Addison Barger 
• Three batters later,  Bo Bichette was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Myles Straw 
• Janson Junk pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 3K 92 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Troy Johnston singled scoring Liam Hicks
• A batter later, Javier Sanoja doubled scoring Eric Wagaman. Johnston was thrown out at home on the play
• Two batters later, Otto Lopez singled scoring Sanoja
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 8K 81 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Marlins tied it up in the bottom of the 9th as Sanoja singled scoring Derek Hill
• The Blue jays retook the lead in the top of the 10th on a sac fly by Ty France that scored Bichette
• The Marlins tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Jakob Marsee doubled scoring Lopez
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 11th as Andre Gimenez singled scoring Straw 
• The Marlins tied it in the bottom held of the inning as Sanoja singled scoring Hill
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 12th a Bichette singled home Springer
• Brandon Little pitched a scoreless 12th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Marlins 6 (12 innings)

My Take:

• Jose Berrios had a nice bounceback game, firing 6.1 strong innings,  giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 8. Typically strikeouts tend to drive up the pitch count, but Berrios was averaging about 10 pitches an inning after 6 innings. Having longer waits between innings might have hurt any momentum he had. A caveat, he was facing a weaker lineup than he will be his next scheduled start against the Brewers.
• The bullpen was lit up for 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5 over the last 5.1 innings. The bullpen blew the save in three consecutive innings and it took a heads up play from Bo Bichette, who threw out the ghost runner at second base, to prevent a 4th blown save. There hs to be angst among the Blue Jays coaching staff over the ability of Jeff Hoffman to be the closer. Yes, he has 28 saves on the season, but he has an ERA over 4.00 and he has a tendency to walk batters. Trouble is, Yimi Garcia can't be counted on to return to health this season. Seranthony Dominquez retired every batter he faced, but his wildness isn't a good trait for a closer. Louis Varland nearly blew the 4-run lead in the 7th inning and I think the team likes him in the setup role. I still think Pete Walker is the scapegoat if the Blue Jays get bounced in the playoffs. There have been too many occasions where mound visits have not helped the struggling pitcher and the opposition immediately capitalizes. Bullpen decisions have been suspect and pitchers need a new voice leading them.
• Kudos to the Blue Jays offense for being clutch in 3 straight innings to give the Blue Jays a chance to win this game. George Springer (2 runs scored, 2 RBI), Bo Bichette (game-winning RBI, scored twice), Alejandro Kirk (RBI double) and TY France (clutch sac fly in the 10th) led the way offensively
• The Blue Jays were 4-16 with runners in scoring position
• With the Red Sox blowing out the Yankees, the division lead remains at 5 games over the Bosox with the Yanks falling to 6.5 games back. The Tigers also won earlier to maintain a 2-game lead over the Blue Jays for the best record in the AL and home field advantage through at least the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Marlins righty Eury Perez

Game #130 Toronto Blue Jays (75-54) @ Miami Marlins (60-68)

 

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (75-54) @ Miami Marlins (60-68) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in 3 runs and scored twice in a 5-2 victory over the Marlins

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Miami. The Marlins swept the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 26-7. Shane Bieber made his Blue Jays debut, coming off the 60 day IL due to tommy John surgery (Braydon Fisher was optioned to AAA-ball) with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad remained out of the lineup with a sore hamstring. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement wa(s at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the wcekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Ty France singled home Alejandro Kirk and Varsho
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Javier Sanoja belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Varsho hammered a 2-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Kirk 
• Ryan Gusto pitching line: 6IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 0K 90 pitches (60 for strikes) 
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 0BB 9K 87 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Maximo Acosta hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a scoreless 9th for his 28th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Marlins 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber was excellent in his Blue Jays debut, and first big league game since April 2, 2024, firing 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 2 hits, while walking none and striking out 9. Bieber made one mistake in the 2nd inning that went over the wall for a home run and retired 11 in a row after that mistake. The Blue Jays couldn't have asked for anything more. He looks like a steal a the moment, even if he is only a Blue Jay for a couple of months
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Brandon Little retired every batter he faced.
• Daulton Varsho (3RBI, including a 2-run HR, 2 runs scored) and Ty France drove the offence today.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Nathan Lukes and Andre Gimenez reached base at least once and all but Lukes, Gimenez and Ernie Clement had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 2-3 with runners in scoring position
• The Red Sox, Astros and Tigers all won today, meaning the Blue Jays have a 5 game lead over the Red Sox and 5.5 game lead over the Yankees for first in the AL East. They have a 4 game cushion over the Astros for the 3rd division leader spot, which would mean a bye into the divisional round and home field advantage through at least the ALDS. They are 2 games back of the Tigers for best record in the entire MLB and home field advatage through the world series.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streaak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Marlins righty Janson Junk

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (74-54) @ Miami Marlins (60-67)

 

Game #128 Toronto Blue Jays (74-54) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (54-74) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a  leadoff home run in a losing effort as the Marlins came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 2-1

After pulling out a win yesterday after another solid Max Scherzer start and 5 runs over the first 2 innings off Pirates starter Matt Keller, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 22nd series win (15th season series win) of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was out of the starting lineup a second start day with a sore hamstring (Ty France was at 1B). Davis Schneider was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 22nd series win (15th season series win) of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer led off the game with a solo blast to left
• The Pirates took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Tommy Pham doubled scoring Bryan Reynolds and Spencer Horwitz
• Johan Oviedo pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 75 pitches (45 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 10K 107 pitches (68 for strikes)
• Dennis Santana pitched a perfect 9th for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Pirates 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 10. Bassitt struck out the 1st 2 batters he faced before blowing the lead George Springer gave him on 2 doubles and a walk. He settled down after that and retired 10 of the next 11 batters. The ten strikeouts drove up the pitch count, but nice job today, other than the 1st and 5th innings.
• The bullpen kept the score where it was over the last 2.1 innings, hitting a batter (Brayden Fisher), allowing 2 hits and walking 2 batters. Brandon Little has been a bit less effective lately. It might be time to give him a bit of a break and maybe some lower leverage situationss for a bit. Also not sold on Seranthony Dominguez. He makes be nervous with his wildnes
• Offensively, George Springer led off the game with a solo HR and that was about it. The Blue Jays best chance to score was the 4th inning when Bo Bichette led off with a double, but the team stranded him at second base. Hard to say whether having Vlad in the lineup or even pinch hitting would have made a difference. Point is moot anyway since the team wanted to give him 72+ hours off with the off-day Thursday. If Vlad still can't play come Friday, I can see the team putting him on the IL retroactively. The team has a relatively comfortable division lead and they need Vlad at full strength for the postseason
• For the moment, the Red Sox and Yankees both gained a half game with the Blue Jays loss (The Red Sox are off today and begin a 4-game series at Yankee Stadium tomorrow and the Yankees will finish their series in Tampa Bay later today; Yankees are 4.5 games back and could be as few as 4 games back of the Blue Jays for first in the AL East if they win tonight and the Red Sox are 5.5 games back of 1st in the AL East). The Tigers did the Blue Jays a favor and defeated the Astros, meaning the Blue Jays maintain their 5 game lead over the Astros for the 2nd best record among the AL division leaders and a bye to the divisional round. If the Blue Jays and Tigers both advanced to the ALCS, the Tigers would have home field advantage in that series, but the Blue Jays would have home field advantage through at least the divisional round. Buckle up Blue Jays fans because scoreboard watching season is upon us!
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Miami. The Marlins swept the season series against the Blue Jays last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 26-7. Shane Bieber is set to come off the IL Friday and make his first start since April 2, 2024. He would have season-ending tommy john surgery 10 days later. The Marlins have not announced their rotation for the series yet.

Game #128 Toronto Blue Jays (74-53) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (53-74)

 

Game #127 Toronto Blue Jays (73-53) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (53-73)

 

Game #126 Toronto Blue Jays (73-53) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (53-73) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in a run in a  losing effort as the Pirates came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 5-2

After a toigh loss yesterday due to a bad day for the pitchers, the Blue Jays opened a week long road trip in Pittsburgh, The Blue Jays won the season series against the Pirates last year, but the Pirates outscored the Blue Jays 15-11. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as last night.  Could the Blue Jays start the week and road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Pirates opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Alexander Canario singled scoring Nick Gonzales 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 3rd on a ground out by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored George Springer 
• A batter later,  Bo Bichette singled scoring Addison Barger 
• The Pirates tied it in the bottom half of the inning on a fielder's choice hit by Bryan Reynolds that scored Spencer Horwitz
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was removed from the game in the top of the 5th after injuring his hamstring doing the splits on a play at 1st base defensively
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 96 pitches (61 for31¹, strikes)
• Paul Skenes pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 96 pitches (65 for strikes)
• John Schneider was ejected in the top of the 7th for arguing balls and strikes when Davis Schneider lost it on aa callred 3rd strike
• The Pirates took the lead in the bottom on the 7th on a wild pitch by Brandon Little that scored Henry Davis
• The Pirates added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a stolen base by Canario that scored Jared Triolo. Tyler Heineman was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• A batter later, Canario scored on a sac fly by Davis
• Dennis Santana pitched a scoreless 9th for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Pirates 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings,  giving up 2 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. The Blue Jays certainly have interesting decisions to make when they add Shane Bieber to the roster. I can still see the Blue Jays either putting Jose Berrios on the IL, who is clearly dealing with something with his velocity way down yesterday,  or going to a six-man rotation for a few turns to give the starters an extra day off. Gausman struggled to locate his pitches which drove his pitch count up. He'll get a start in the post season. 
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on a hit, 4 walks, a wild pitch and 2 bad throws while striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. The Blue Jays needed 3 pitchers to get three outs in the 7th inning, not ideal. It should be noted 2 runs were unearned and directly the fault of Heineman who made 2 bad throws in the 8th to put the game out of reach. None of the relievers was able to retire every batter faced.
• As mentioned above, it was a rough night for Heineman behind the plate. The Pirates stole bases on him three times, he was charged with a throwing error and he couldn't control a wild pitch by Brandon Little. At the plate, he was 0-3 and struck out once. Heineman has been having a solid season and should get a nice raise in arbitration in the off-season
• There has to be concern for Vlad, but now would be a good time to give him a day or two off with a decent lead in the AL East. Even a short 10-game IL stint would be ok. The important thing is to have Vlad healthy for the playoffs.
• Offensively, Vlad and Bo Bichette drove in the 2 Blue Jays runs
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• With the loss, the idle Red Sox and Yankees both gained a game on the Blue Jays (both teams are 5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East) and the Tigers overtook the Blue Jays for best AL record and home field advantage through at least the ALCS. The Blue Jays would still get a bye to the divisional round if the playoffs started tomorrow, but the Astros, who lead the AL West, are just 4 games back of the Blue Jays. That series against the Astros in Toronto September 9-11 is looking pretty big at the moment.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 16th series loss and 5th season series loss of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Pirates righty Mitch Keller 

Game #126 Toronto Blue Jays (73-52) @ Pittsburgh Pirates (52-73)

 

Game #125 Texas Rangers (62-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-52) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run HR in a 10-4 loss to the Rangers

After blowing out the Rangers yesterday thanks to a huge 18-hit, 14-run outburst, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Marcus Semien whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Rowdy Tellez 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk belted a solo jack to left-center 
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 4th as Jake Burger singled scoring Semien 
• Two batters later,  Jonah Heim singled scoring Burger and Cody Freeman
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 5th as Cory Seager smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left 
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4.1IP 10H 6R (all earned) 0BB 2K 87 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Wyatt Langford hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left; also scoring Josh Smith
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center 
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 8th as George Springer hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Myles Straw 
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th a s Evan Carter smashed a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Seager
• Final score: Rangers 10 Blue Jays 4

My Take: 

• Jose Berrios was lit up for 6 runs on 10 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over 4.1 innings. Could it be Jose Berrios that is relegated to bullpen status in the postseason.  Berrios can be very good or have clunkers like today where the opposition is not fooled but what he is offering. Plus, Berrios is prone to giving up the long ball (he was taken deep twice this afternoon).  There's no question he'll have a role in the postseason, but you can't be giving up home runs the way he has a tendency to do and you need to get out of innings efficiently. Unless he is really dialed in as he was in game 2 of the 2023 wild card series in Minnesota, he will be on a short leash and likely Eric Lauer will be asked to eat up a few innings. Lots of interesting decisions to be made as far as the playoff roster is concerned but the rotation and bullpen are arguably the most important pieces of the roster. 
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 1 over the last 4.2 innings. It appears pitching could be a major issue for the Blue Jays come the postseason. Never mind figuring out who will close the game, the team actually needs a lead in the 9th inning. Louis Varland, who looked great his first few appearances in a Blue Jays uniform, has now given up a home run in two straight days. Mason Fluharty got the Blue Jays out of the 5th inning, but walked 2 batters in the process. Relievers need to throw strikes when they come into the game. The Blue Jays are going to need to manage the bullpen down the sttretch or the season will end like it did in 2022 when the bullpen blew an 8-1 lead in a game that saw the Mariners score 9 times in the last innings. That scenario could very well play out again given the pitchers continue to allow home runs and walk batters at inopportune times
• Offensively, Vlad, George Springer and Alejandro Kirk all went deep. Interesting that Vlad opted not to gloat and wear the home run jacket on his long ball. Perhaps it was because his home run made the score 8-2. I still think the jacket should be repurposed as a player of the game jacket handed out in the locker room, much like they do in the NHL. It would be much more meaningful and motivating than wearing it on a home run that may not impact the outcome, as was the case today.
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays received help on the scoreboard with the Red Sox, Astros and Tigers all losing (although the Yankees won). This means the Blue Jays remain 1st in the AL East, 5 games up on the Red Sox and 5.5 games up on the Yankees. They also have the best record of the 3 division leaders, which would mean a bye to the divisional round and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road, starting in Pittsburgh tomorrow night. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Pirates last year, but the Pirates outscored the Blue Jays 15-11. Kevin Gausman starts against Pirates righty and ace Paul Skenes.

Game #125 Texas Rangers (61-63) v. Toronto Blue Jays (73-51)

 

Game #124 Texas Rangers (61-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-51) - game recap

 

Myles Straw hit a pair of home runs and drove in 5 runs in a 14-2 rout over the Rangers 

After another comeback win thanks to a 4-RBI and first career stolen base from Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 25th series win and 15th season series win of the season. George Springer was activated off the concussion IL (he served as DH today) and Joey Loperfido was optioned to AAA-ball. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 25th series win and 15th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Bo Bichette 
• A batter later, Myles Straw belted a 3- run jack to left-center; also scoring Daulton Varsho and Clement
• Five batters later,  Bichette doubled scoring Andres Gimenez and Davis Schneider. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Was thrown out at home to end the inning on the play
• The Rangers got one back in the top of the 3rd as Jake Burger singled scoring Sam Haggerty
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Straw whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Varsho
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 2.1IP 8H 7R (all earned) 2BB 2K 62 pitches (37 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Varsho smacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• Five batters later, Schneider was forced in on a basse loaded walk to Straw
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5IP 4H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 102 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th as Schneider drilled a 3-run bomb to left; also scoring Nathan Lukes and George Springer
• The Rangers got one back in the top of the 9th as Burger singled scoring Wyatt Langford
• Final score: Blue Jays 14 Rangers 2

My Take:

• Eric Lauer fired 5 innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. Lauer was battling in and out of jams all day, but limited the damage to one run. His continued solid play will likely mean the Blue Jays go to a 6-man rotation to finish the season. Lauer has earned a playoff start in my mind.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Nobody retired every batter faced, but Tommy Nance pitched 2 innings and Tyler Heineman, the Blue Jays designated position player pitcher, pitched the 9th. \
• Offensively, Myles Straw (2 HR, 5 RBI), Davis Schneider (3-run HR, 4 RBI, 2 runs scored), Daulton Varsho (2-run HR) and Bo Bichette (2RBI, run scored) did the damage
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Vlad and Alejandro Kirk had a hit
• It was the 282th career win for manager John Schneider, who moved into 4th all-time for winningest Blue Jays manager. Cito Gaston is 1st with 894 wins. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi

Game #124 Texas Rangers (61-62) v. Toronto Blue Jays (72-51)

 

Game #123 Texas Rangers (61-62) @ Toronto Blue Jays (72-51) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in 4 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the Rangers

After edging the Cubs yesterday thanks to a strong start from Max Scherzer and a 2-run HR off the bat of Vlad, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they welcomed the Texas Rangers to town. The Blue Jays won the series in Texas back at the end of May, outscoring the Rangers 4-3. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Andres Gimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Kyle Higashioka whacked a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Marcus Semien and Rowdy Tellez 
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 4H 3R (all earned) 4BB 4K 100 pitches (57 got strikes
• Jacob DeGrom pitching line: 5IP 2H 0R 0BB 5K 84 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center and into the  Rangers bullpen; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Semien belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Evan Carter
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette singled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Four batters later, Davis Schneider was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Varsho
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 28th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Rangers 5

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt gave up three runs on four hits while walking four and striking out four. He had a tough 2nd inning, giving up a 3-run HR after walking a batter and striking out a batter. Home runs have been a big issue for the Blue Jays pitchers this season.  They have been taken deep 110 times thus far with only the Athletics surrendering more. Bassitt could be the odd man out once Shane Bieber returns from Tommy John surgery. He'll almost certainly be either left off the playoff roster entirely or relegated to the bullpen. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7 over the last 4 innings. Jeff Hoffman, who was nasty tonight, and Yariel Rodriguez retired every batter they faced.
• The comeback kids did it again. The Blue Jays, led by Alejandro Kirk, who drove in 4 runs, including himself on a 2-run HR in the 7th inning. This team is never out of it and will be a dangerous team in the playoffs 
• The Blue Jays  were 2-9 with runners in scoring position.
• It is player's weekend this weekend, an annual event where the player's use specially designed bats and go by their nicknames. Originally it ran from 2017-2019, but was brought back last season. The teams wore special uniforms with color schemes similar to their everyday uniforms and in 2017 the uniforms had a tribute patch on the right sleeve for players to thank those who helped them get to the bigs (parents, sister, etc). In 2019, the uniforms were terrible with half the teams wearing all white and the other half wearing all black. You could not see the names or numbers on the back of the jerseys.This year and last year, players got to custom design their bats. The legue should bring back the colorful uniforms and keep the specially designed bats and cleats from the relaunch of this fun event.
• With the win, the Blue Jays maintained their 5-game lead for the AL East division title over the Red Sox, who won their game
• Up next, the Blue Jays try extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 22nd series win and 15th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Rangers lefty Patrick Corbin

Game #123 Texas Rangers (61-61) v. Toronto Blue Jays (71-51) AppleTV Exclusive

 

Game #122 Chicago Cubs (68-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (71-51) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run HR in a 2-1 comeback win over the Cubs

After dropping yesterday's game due to an inept offense, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 21st series win (14th season series win of the season). Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Addison Barger was back in the field at the hot corner after DH'ing yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 21st series win and 14th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Cubs took the lead in the top of the 6th as Michael Busch whacked a solo blast to right-center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Davis Schneider
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 78 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Matthew Boyd pitching line: 7IP 2H 2R ( both earned) 1BB 5K 78 pitches (58 for strikes
• Jeff Hoffman threw a scoreless 9th for his 27h save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Cubs 1

My Take:

• Both starters today matched each other almost pitch for pitch. Max Scherzer and Matthew Boyd both threw 78 pitches with Boyd throwing an extra strike, walking an extra batter and giving up his home run with a runner on base, whereas the bases were empty when Michael Busch went deep off Scherzer. Max Scherzer also surrender three extra base hits. There's no question that Scherzer should be on the playoff roster and really I'd have him start game two the way he is pitching.
• The bullpen threw 2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and walking a batter. Jeff Hoffman will and should be the closer the rest of the season and in the playoffs, but much like his predecessor Jordan Romano, Hoffman has a tendency to make things interesting in the 9th. Seranthony Dominguez got a huge strikeout to end the 8th.
• Vlad went deep in the 7th to give the Blue Jays the lead. The team will need more of that from him down the stretch
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring position
• It was the Blue Jays 38th comeback win of the season. The 1992 team had 40 comeback wins and the 1993 team had 44 comeback wins. 
• The Blue Jays also gained a half game on the idle Red Sox and Yankees, boosting their division lead to 5 games over the Red Sox and 6.5 games over the Yankees
• Today's game was over in 2 hours and 6 minutes. The game was already in the 6th inning by the time the game was an hour old. Roy Halladay was the starter in the fastest game in franchise history May 10, 2005 against the Royals. The game of baseball is very different than it was at that time. For one thing, both starters in that game threw complete games. Today, Scherzer and Boyd were both done after 7 innings and 78 pitches each. Another big difference is the pitch clock, which didn't exist in 2005. Games ending in under 2 hours were rare back then and the average game was over three hours. Today, you see more games finishing under three hours. Baseball is the only major sport where there is no game clock (aside from the pitch clock) dictating the length of the game. Each inning lasts however long it takes to record 3 outs. The MLB was forced to introduce the pitch clock and other measures to keep games relatively short since players often wasted a lot of time during games stepping out of the batter's box to adjust their batting gloves or pitchers would take forever when there were base runners on base, throwing over or holding the ball or taking their time with pitch selection. Also, pitch calling is largely done electronically now through pitch com, where as catchers had to flash signs with their fingers in 2005. Finally, there were generally more mound visits in 2005, which also slowed the game down.
• Up next, the Blue Jays face another tough test as the Texas Rangers come to town. The Blue Jays won the series in Texas back at the end of May, outscoring the Rangers 4-3. Chris Bassitt starts against Rangers righty Jacob DeGrom

Game #122 Chicago Cubs (68-51) v. Toronto Blue Jays (70-51)

 

Game #121 Chicago Cubs (67-51) v. Toronto Blue Jays (70-50)

 

- Game #120 Chicago Cubs (67-51) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-50) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a 3-run HR in a 5-1 victory over the Cubs

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays started a week-long homestand as they welcomed the Chicago Cubs to town. The Cubs took the season series laat year, outscoring the Blue Jays 9-8. Andres Gimenez was activated off the 10-day IL and got the start at 2B and Buddy Kennedy was DFA'd. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the bottom of the 4th as Ernie Clement whacked a 3-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Daulton
• Javier Assad pitching line: 4IP 8H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 70 pitches (48 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5.1IP 2H 0R 4BB 3K 91 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Cubs got one back in the top of the 7th as Michael Busch singled scoring Dansby Swanson
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Daulton Varsho belted a solo jack to right and into the Cubs bullpen
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Cubs 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 5.1 shutout innings, scattering 2 hits, walking 4 and striking out 3. Berrios retired the first 5 batters he faced and another out streak of 6 batters. There is a good chance that he'll be a bullpen option in the playoffs. At this point, playoff rotation looks like it'll be (in no particular order) Kevin Gausman, Eric Lauer, Shance Bieber and Max Scherzer. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6 over the last 3.2 innings. It will be interesting to see who is the Blue Jays closer going into the playoffs in 6 weeks. Jeff Hoffman has 26 saves on the season, but he has blown 5 saves and has had control issues of late. Louis Varland has looked great early in his stint with the Blue Jays and the team needs a good closer in the 9th.
• Bo Bichette (RBI single), Ernie Clement (3-run HR) and Daulton Varsho (2 runs scored, including solo HR) carried the day offensively
• The win kept the division lead over the Yankees and Red Sox, who both had blowout wins, at 6 and 4.5 games. If the playoffs started tomorrow, the Blue Jays would have home field advantage through the ALCS and be receiving a key bye to the divisional round.
• The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays have the same record after 120 games as the 1992 world series winning season. The 1993 team was 69-71 after 120 games. This Blue Jays team needs to go 30-12 the rest of the way for their franchises first 100 win season. If this is accomplished the Blue Jays will likely go into the playoffs red hot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 21st series win and 14 season series win of the season. They will also be looking to improve their record on my birthday (August 13) to 22-22 on my birthdday and extend that win streak to 4 games. Kevin Gausman starts against Cubs righty Cade Horton.

Game #120 Chicago Cubs (67-50) v. Toronto Blue Jays (69-50)

 

Game #119 Toronto Blue Jays (69-50) @ LA Dodgers (68-50) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a go-ahead solo HR in the 9th as the Blue Jays held on to edge the Dodgers 5-4

After a rough loss thanks to a rough 6th inning by the bullpen and Chris Bassitt giving up a HR, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time (and 3rd season series sweep). Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Ty France DH'd today). Joey Loperfido was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time (and 3rd season series sweep)? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr doubled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Dodgers tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Shohei Ohtani whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• Three batters later,  Freddie Freeman smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left-center 
• The Dodgers added a run in the bottom of the 2nd on a bases loaded walk to Freeman that forced in Miguel Rojas
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 3IP 6H 3R (all earned) 4BB 4K 71 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Ty France singled scoring Bichette
•  Tyler Glasnow pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 4BB 8K 86 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 8th as Guerrero Jr. belted a solo jack to straightaway center
• A batter later, Addison Barger hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• The Dodgers tied it in the bottom of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Freeman that forced in Alex Freeland 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 9th as Ernie Clement whacked a solo blast to left-center 
• Mason Fluharty got the last 2 outs for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Dodgers 4

My Take:

• Eric Lauer had a rare rough start,  giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 4. It was clear first batter that Lauer just didn't have his best stuff working for him. Then again, the way the Dodgers have been playing in this series, even Nolan Ryan might have had a tough time. With the blowouts lately, several relievers hadn't been pitching much lately so it was a fairly easy decision to pull Lauer after three innings and 71 pitches, which likely would have given him only one more inning anyway. 
• The bullpen bent and almost broke, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 9 and striking out 6. Yariel Rodriguez blew the first save opportunity in the 8th by walking in a run. Closer Jeff Hoffman, who hadn't pitched in a week due to blowouts, was clearly rusty and uncharacteristically walked 5 batters. The outbursts in the dugout from Pete Walker and John Schneider did their pitchers no favors. Also, pitchers need to be throwing strikes consistently to get close calls from the umpire and that did not happen today. Trading for Seranthony Dominguez may have been a mistake. In a playoff game, you need to be throwing strikes and Dominguez has shown some wildness in recent appearances.
• The bats came around late with Vlad, Addison Barger and Ernie Clement all going deep in the latter innings. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• The Yankees and Red Sox lost, extending the AL East lead to 4 games ahead of a tough homestand featuring the Cubs and Texas Rangers

• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow,  the Blue Jays welcome the Chicago Cubs to town as they begin a crucial homestand that could feature the Blue Jays debut of Shane Bieber. The Cubs won the season series last year,  outscoring the Blue Jays 9-8. Neither team has set their rotation for the series. 

Game #119 Toronto Blue Jays (68-50) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (68-49)

 

Game #118 Toronto Blue Jays (68-50) @ LA Dodgers (68-49) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a solo home run in a 9-1 loss to the Dodgers

After falling short yesterday against legendary lefty Clayton Kershaw, the Blue Jays were trying to even the series and avoid their 11th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Buddy Kennedy was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 11th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Max Muncy whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in left; also scoring Freddie Freeman
• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 5th as Shohei Ohtani hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Blake Snell pitching line: 5IP 3H 0R 3BB 10K 90 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 2BB 2K 68 pitches (43 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 6th as Dalton Rushing singled scoring Andy Pages and Michael Conforto
• Two batters later, Mookie Betts singled scoring Alex Freeland and Rushing
• Four batters later Pages doubled scoring Ohtani and Betts
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Ernie Clement belted a solo jack to left-center
• Final score: Dodgers 9 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 4.2 innings,  giving up three runs on 6 hits while waking 2 and striking out 2. The Dodgers went deep on him twice for the 3 runs against. Both he and Kevin Gausman are prone to bad starts.  One might be left off an ALDS roster or asked to pitch out of the bullpen with Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Eric Lauer likely to be tapped to make a playoff start. For sure John Schneider and Co. wiill be closely watching the next several starts of Bassitt and Gausman to determine the playoff rotation.
• The bullpen was lit up for 6 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6 over the last 3.1 innings. Seranthony Domiguez, acquired at the deadline to bolster the bullpen, uncorked 2 wild pitches and was responsible for 2 of the runs against. Yariel Rodriguez, who retired just one batter, was charged with 4 runs against. Brayden Fisher and Tommy Nance both retired every batter they faced and combined for 4 strikeouts.
• Ernie Clement broke the shutout bid with a solo HR in the 8th inning
• Baseball can be such as humbling sport. After making the Colorado Rockies look like a francise that might struggle to compete in AAA-ball, the Dodgers are making the Blue Jays look like an AAA-level team. There is a vast difference in talent between the Rockies and Dodgers and the two extremes could be a strong argument for a salary cap so there is more parity in the league and a team like the Dodgers can't buy every single significant free agent. 
• The Blue Jays received help from San Diego to keep the division lead at 3 games. Houston Also lost so they remain the 3rd best division leader and would be facing a wild card series if the playoffs started tomorrow and the Tigers and Blue Jays would have byes to the ALDS. The Blue Jays would also have home field advantage at least through the ALCS.
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time (and 3rd season series sweep). Eric Lauer starts against Dodgers righty Tyler Glasnow 

Game #118 Toronto Blue Jays (68-49) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (67-49)

 

Game #117 Toronto Blue Jays (68-49) @ LA Dodgers (67-49) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 5-1 come-from-behind loss to the Dodgers

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in LA against a Dodgers team looking to repeat as World Series champions. The Dodgers won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 17-7. Ali Sanchez was claimed was claimed off waivers by the Red Sox. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday (Ty France served as DH tonight). Daulton Varsho was in CF and Myles Straw was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Addison Barger singled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Dodgers took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Mookie Betts belted a 2-2-run jack to left; also scoring Shohei Ohtani
• Clayton Kershaw pitching line: 6IP 7H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 74 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 5K 98 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a fielder's choice hit by Betts that scored Alex Freeland
• Two batters later,, Ohtani was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Will Smith
• Two batters later, Betts scored on a sac fly by Teoscar Hernandez 
• Final score: Dodgers 5 Blue Jays 1

My T-ake:

• Max Scherzer threw 6 solid innings giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. There is really only one pitch he'll want back where Blue Jays killer Mookie Betts took him deep to give the Dodgers the lead. The Dodgers also jumped on him early, but Scherzer escaped that jam without giving up a run despite the bases being loaded. He settled down and retired 8 in a row. This is almost certainly going to be the last pitching match-up between these two future hall of famers and Scherzer and Clayton Kershaw both showed flashes of their brilliance tonight. 
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on a hit and 3 walks while striking out 2 over the last 2 innnings. All 3 runs were charged to Brandon Little, who did not retire a batter. Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced on 10 pitches
• Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run. Vlad extended his on-base streak to 24 games and his hitting streak to 4 games.
• The Blue Jays were 2-8 with runners in scoring position
• The lead for 1st in the AL East shrunk by a game with the Red Sox winning. The Astros also won, putting them just 3 games back of the Blue Jays for the record in the AL and home field advantage at least through the ALCS round. It won't take much for the Blue Jays to plummet to 3rd place among the division leaders, which would mean facing a wild card series, which will likely mean a wild card series vs. the Yankees, Red Sox, Mariners or Guardians
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 11th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Dodgers lefty Blake Snell

Game #117 Toronto Blue Jays (68-48) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (66-49)

 

Game #116 Toronto Blue Jays (67-48) @ Colorado Rockies (30-83)

 

Game #115 Toronto Blue Jays (67-48) @ Colorado Rockies (30-83) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a pair of 2-run HE and drove in 6 runs in a 10-4 comeback win over the Rockies

After a huge 15-1 rout over the Rockies thanks to a pair of home runs and 6RBI from Bo Bichette and a 3-run shot off the bat of Daulton Varsho, the Blue Jays were trying to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 20th series win and 13th season series win of the season. Buddy Kennedy was selected to the MLB roster. Ali Sanchez was DFA'd. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Ty France served as DH tonight). Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 20 series wins and 13 season series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rockies opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as zhunter Goodman belted a solo jack to left; also scoring Ezequiel Tovar
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Nathan Lukes whacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Rockies bullpen
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 4th as Daulton Varsho drilled a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Alejandro Kirk
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right
• Two batters, Varsho hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Kirk
• Anthony Molina pitching line: 5IP 9H 7R (all earned) 1BB 2K 83 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Two batters later, Joey Loperfido was forced out the game after getting hit in the right knee by a pitch
• The Rockies got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Mickey Moniak singth seruesled scoring Goodman. Varsho was charged with a fielding error on the play
• A batter later Warming Bernabel singled scouting Jordan Beck
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5.2IP 7H 4R (3 earned) 1BB 5K 81 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Lukes
• Three batters later, Varsho doubled scoring Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Rockies 4

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 5.2 innings,  giving up 4 runs (3 earned) on 7 his whole walking 1 and striking out 5. He helped himself out by picking of a baserunner at 2B. The defense behind him booted a few balls. Would have been nice to see him get through the 6th inning, but the lead had dwindled to three runs when he was removed from the game. 
• The bullpen gave up 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 3.2 innings. Yariel Rodriguez owes Nathan Lukes a dinner for gunning down a base runner at 2B. Tommy Nance retired every batter he faced. The one nice thing about pitching with a bigger lead is you don't need your high-leverage guys to finish thr game. The Blue Jays will be needing them against the Dodgers and Cubs.
• Daulton Varsho (two 2-run HR, 6RBI overall), Vlad (solo HR, 2RBI), Nathan Lukes (solo HR) and Addison Barger (solo HR) led the way offensively
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position,
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 9th series sweep and 5th season series sweep. Kevin Gausman starts against Rockies lefty Kyle Freeland

Game #115 Toronto Blue Jays (66-48) @ Colorado Rockies (30-82)

 

Game #114 Toronto Blue Jays (66-48) @ Colorado Rockies (30-82) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette homered twice and drove in 6 runs in a 15-1 rout over the Rockies

After an ugly extra innings loss caused by the bullpen imploding, the Blue Jays hit the road, starting in Colorado tonight. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, but the Rockies outscored the Blue Jays 15-14. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Chad Green cleared waivers and was released. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Joey Loperfido was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays start the week and road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Bo Bichette singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Davis Schneider singled scoring Ernie Clement 
• The Blue Jays added three runs in the top of the 3rd as Daulton Varsho drilled a 3--run blast to the second deck in right-center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Addison Barger
• Two batters later,  Joey Loperfido singled scoring Clement
• A batter later, Schneider doubled scoring Loperfido. Schneider was thrown out at 3rd trying to stretch the double into a triple
• Two batters later, Bichette whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Lukes
• Tanner Gordon pitching line: 2.2IP 11H 7R (all earned) 0BB 1K 67 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Rockies got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Ezequiel Tovar singled scoring Tyler Freeman
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Lukes singled scoring Clement
• A batter later, Bichette hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Lukes and Loperfido 
• Four batters later, Varsho singled scoring Barger
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 6IP 7H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 97 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th on a ground-rule double by Clement that scored Ty France
• Final score: Blue Jays 15 Rockies 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer pitched 6 strong innings,  giving up a run on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. He got a huge play from his battery mate Alejandro Kirk, who gunned down a runner at 1B. Lauer then proceeded to strike out the batter he was facing to get out of the inning.  Lauer had to endure long waits between the innings due to some big innings by the Blue Jays offense and that may have affected his momentum a bit. Nevertheless, Lauer didn't need to be perfect today. At this point, there's no way you can take Lauer out of the rotation when Shane Bieber and Alek Manoah are ready to return from their Tommy John surgeries. Likely,  the Blue Jays will go to a 6-man rotation nd use Manoah as a long man out of the bullpen.
• The bullpen gave a hit and a walk over the last 2 innings. Brayden Fisher struck out the side and Mason Fluharty pitched the last two innings and made it look easy in the 9th. Fisher may be on a playoff roster, but Fluharty may not be.
• The bats absolutely came alive with the team ready to punish whoever dared pitch to them after a tough stretch. Bo Bichette homered twice (driving in 6 runs), Daulton Varsho launched a 3-run blast (driving in 4 total). Heck, even Davis Schneider drove in a pair.
• Every single Blue Jay except Tyler Heineman reached base. Every starter either drove in a run or scored a run.
• The Blue Jays were 8-15 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins, 20 series wins and 13 season series wins on the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Rockies righty Anthony Molina.

Game #114 Toronto Blue Jays (65-48) @ Colorado Rockies (30-81)

 

Game #113 Kansas City Royals (56-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-48) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw 6 strong innings in a losing effort as the Royals came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-4 in 10 innings

After pulling off a win thanks to a 3-run 3rd inning rally, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 20th series win of the season. Alejandro Kirk was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL and Leo Jimenez was optioned to AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Nathan Lukes served as DH today). Myles Straw was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and notch their 20th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Myles Straw singled scoring Bo Bichette. Daulton Varsho was thrown out at home on the play to end the inning
• The Royals tied it up in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Mike Yastrzemski that scored Vinnie Pasquantino
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Joey Loperfido singled scoring Ernie Clement 
• Seth Lugo pitching line: 4.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 4BB 3K 91 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 1H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 91 pitches (54'for strikes)
• The Royals tied it in the top of the 8th as Pasquantino singled scoring Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Royals took the lead in the top of the 10th as Kyle Isbel doubled scoring Randal Grichuk
• Three batters later, Tyler Tolbert singled scoring Isbel and Jonathan India
• A batter later, Witt Jr. scored on a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk 
• Same batter, Tolbert scored on a sac fly by Maikel Garcia
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Straw
• Four batters later, Addison Barger singled home Lukes
• Final score: Royals 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 6 strong innings,  giving up a run on a hit, while walking 3 and striking out 5. The Royals did a good job of working the count and Bassitt had to battle to get outs. Shane Bieber, barring an injury setback,  could be ready to join the rotation in a week or two, at which time,  the Blue Jays could opt to go to a six man rotation so the starters, especially Bassitt, Kevin Gausman and Joerrios who were asked to pitch more innings earlier in the season with the Blue Jays effectively having 3.5 man rotation for much of the first half of the season with Max Scherzer trying to sort out his ailing thumb and an ineffective Bowden Francis occupying the other rotation spot.
• Oof was that an ugly day for the bullpen. First, one of the newly acquired bullpen arms, Louis Varland blew the save in the 8th inning. Jeff Hoffman held the score where it was with a scoreless 9th. Then came the 10th inning. Seranthony Dominguez, who yours truly was just heaping praise on a day ago, didn't retire a single batter and coughed up 5 runs on 3 hits, a walk and a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk. Not a great showing by the relievers who were supposed to improve the bullpen ahead of a pennant race.
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes (RBI, run scored), Myles Straw (RBI, run scored), Joey Loperfido (RBI single) and Addison Barger (RBI single)
• The Blue Jays need more off the bat of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. He was 0-4 today and only got on base because the Royals chose to pitch to Bo Bichette, who singled, in the 9th inning. The pressure on Guerrero Jr. is only going to get bigger, especially if Bichette leaves in free agency, a very likely scenario. Plus, Guerrero Jr.'s $500 million contract starts next season. 16HR simply isn't good enough.
• And another thing, perhaps the Blue Jays should have moved Bichette at the deadline. I know they were going to be buyrs since they had the best record in the MLB, but now Bichette can, and likely will walk away in the off-season for nothing. With the strong season Bichette is having, the Blue Jays could have gotten a few solid prospects at the very least and maybe even a roster player ready to be in the everyday lineup now.
• The Blue Jays were 5-9 with runners in scoring position. This game wasn't lost due to lack of offense, It's pretty difficult to comeback in extra innings when the bullpen gives up 5 runs.
• The one silver lining is the Marlins did the Blue Jays a favor by sweeping the Yankees. At the same time, it could be a caution not to take the weak teams lightly. On the other hand, the Red Sox won again and are just 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. Good thing the Blue Jays have clinched the season series on both the Red Sox and Yankees.
• Up next, The Blue Jays go right back on the road with their final west coast swing of the season, starting in Colorado tomorrow. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, but the Rockies outscored the Blue Jays 15-14. Eric Lauer starts against Rockies righty Tanner Gordon.

Game #113 Kansas City Royals (55-56) v. Toronto Blue Jays (65-47)

 

Game #112 Kansas City Royals (55-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-47) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider hit a 2-run single in a 4-2 win over the Royals

After a decisive loss last night due to the pitchers being unable to prevent runs as of late, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Davis Schneider singled scoring Tyler Heineman and Myles Straw. Royals RF John Rave was charged with a fielding error on the play
• Three batters later, Bo Bichette singled home Schneider
• Tyler Heineman was removed from the game prior to the top of the 4th after getting leveled by a pitch off the mask in thr top of  the 3rd.
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 6th as Salvador Perez whacked q solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 5K 84 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 7th on a sac bunt by Kyle Isbel that scored Adam Frazier 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Ernie Clement singled scoring Joey Loperfido 
• Noah Cameron pitching line: 6.1IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 1K 94 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 26th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Royals 2

My Take:

• Mazz Scherzer pitched 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 5. Scherzer retired 9 of the first 11 batters he faced.  There is only one pitch he'll want back, when Salvador Perez took him deep in his final inning. Could Scherzer have gone an extra inning, considering he was at 84 pitches after 6 innings? Probably, but pulling him early might mean he's fresh for a possible playoff game if Shane Bieber or Alek Manoah have a setback in their return from tommy john surgery.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 1 hit while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Seranthony Dominguez has made the best early impression of the trade deadline. He is perfect over 3.1 innings and struck out 4 of his old teammates. He could be a key member of the back end of the bullpen.
• Offensively, Davis Schneider (2-run single), Ernie Clement (RBI single) and Bo Bichette (RBI single led the way
• Ty France got his first hit in a Blue Jays uniform and made some nice plays defensively at 1B. His defensive ability will afford the Blue Jays to give Vladdy a few days  off his feet as DH or perhaps complete days off
• The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch theit 20th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #112 Kansas City Royals (55-55) v. Toronto Blue Jays (64-47)

 

Game #111 Kansas City Royals (54-55) v. Toronto Blue Jays (64-46)

 

Game #110 Toronto Blue Jays (64-46) @ Baltimore Orioles (50-59) - game recap

Nathan Lukes hit a 3- run HR in a 9-8 comeback win over the Orioles

After getting swept in the double header yesterday,  the Blue Jays were trying to snap unge 4-game skid and avoid getting swept for the 5th time this season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Ali Sanchez behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Will Wagner at 1B. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing in the second game of the double header.  Davis Schneider was in LF and Joey Loperfido was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4 game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time this season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a sac fly by Adley Rutschman that scored Jackson Holliday
• A batter later,  Ryan O'Hearn hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Gunnar Henderson
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 2nd as Myles Straw whacked a 2- run blast to left- center; also scoring Addison Barger 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Ali Sanchez
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Jordan Westburg belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Alex Jackson
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 5R (2 earned) 0BB 3K 73 pitches (49 for strikes)
• Dean Kremer pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 87 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Straw doubled scoring Davis Schneider
• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Joey Loperfido and Ernie Clement 
• Three batters later,  Nathan Lukes drilled a 3-run blast to right; also scoring Barger and Bichette
• The Orioles got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Henderson singled scoring Holliday
• A batter later,  Westburg scored on a fielding error by Blue Jays 1B Ernie Clement on a ball hit by Rutschman 
• Two batters later, Henderson was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Colton Cowser 
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 25th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Orioles 8

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 5 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 3. A throwing error by Ernie Clement resulted in three unearned runs. He wasn't at his best, but he limited the damage after a rough 1st inning. 
• The bullpen gave up three runs (2 earned) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 9 over the last 4.2 innings. Brandon Little, Seranthony Dominguez (who switched bullpen yesterday after a trade in the middle of yesterday's double header), Brayden Fisher and Jeff Hoffman all retired every batter they faced. Odd decision to use both lefty relievers back to back. It hindered the teams ability to match at the end of the ball game. 
• Myles Straw (3 RBI, including a 2- run HR), Vlad (RBI single), Bo Bichette (2-run single) and Nathan Lukes (3-run HR) drove the offense today
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Addison Barger,  Will Wagner and Davis Schneider had a hit 
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next,  after an off-day/travel day, the Blue Jays open a brief homestand against the Kansas City Royals, who took the season series last year 5-2, outscoring the Blue Jays 26-18. Michael Wacha starts for the Royals. The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet