Game #93 Toronto Blue Jays (54-39) @ Chicago White Sox (31-62) - game recap

 

Tyler Heineman drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 2-1 come-from-behind loss to the White Sox

After yet another win on the strength of a 5- run 3rd inning in a rain-shortened game yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to increase the win streak to a franchise- record tying 11 games and to complete their 8th series sweep and notch their 10th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Will Wagner at 1B. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays tie the franchise record of 11 straight wins, complete their 8th series sweep and notch their 10th 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 2nd as Tyler Heineman singled scoring Will Wagner 
• The White Sox tied it up in the bottom of the 4th as Edgar Quero doubled scoring Austin Slater
• Two batters later, Lenyn Sosa singled scoring Quero
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4IP 4H 2R ,(both earned) 1BB 7K 68 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Ryan Burr left his appearance in the 7th inning with a shoulder injury. Very likely going on the IL
• Adrian Houser pitching line: 7IP 7H 1R ,(earned) 2BB 2K 96 pitches (70 for strikes)
• Jordan Leasure pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season.
• Final score: White Sox 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 4 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. John Schneider should have given him an extra inning or two.  Lauer was great the first 3 innings, retiring 9 of the first 10 batters he faced. Yes, he had a stressful and long inning in the 4th, but the bullpen has pitched a ton of innings in the 1st half. With the uncertainty with Max Scherzer's thumb injury and the uncertainty of Alek Manoah when he likely returns in August, I can see the Blue Jays going to a six-man rotation in the second half of the season. They will also likely look at acquiring a starting pitcher or long reliever at the trade deadline to give the team more options to save the bullpen down the stretch.
• The bullpen threw 4 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits, walking none and striking out 5. Kudos to Yariel Rodriguez, who inherited a 3-2 count when he came into the game for Burr, who was forced to leave the game mid-at-bat after reinjuring his shoulder, and struck out the batter on his first pitch.
• There has to be big concerns for Burr, who just came back after missing the first three months with a shoulder injury. Don't be surprised if this injury ends his season. He has a history with shoulder issues already and it is not a good sign he hurt it again so soon after coming off the IL. The Blue Jays are already trying to do without Yimi Garcia and Nick Sandlin. Good thing the all-star break is coming up soon
• Offensively, the Blue Jays were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. For sure, a soggy field was a big factor. Vlad getting thrown out at 3rd base on a bad base running decision didn't help. Neither did grounding into 2 double plays and Leo Jimenez lining into a 3rd double play.
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays head west to Sacramento, the temporary home of the Athletics, who will be moving to Las Vegas in a couple of years. The Blue Jays. The Blue Jays swept the A's in Toronto at the end of May, outscoring the A's 18-14. Max Scherzer starts against A's righty Luis Severino

Game #93 Toronto Blue Jays (54-38) @ Chicago White Sox (30-62)

Game #92 Toronto Blue Jays (53-38) @ Chicago White Sox (30-61)

 

Game #91 Toronto Blue Jays (53-38) @ Chicago White Sox (30-61) - game recap

Joey Loperfido drove in 3 runs, including a solo HR, in an 8-4 come-from-behind win over the White Sox

 

After completing the sweep on the strength of 2 runs scored, including a home run and a nice 107 pitch effort from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 9 games as they hit the road in the final week before the all-star break starting in Chicago tonight against the Southsiders (White Sox). The White Sox took the series in Toronto, outscoring the Blue Jays 22-20. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Will Wagner was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 9 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The white Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Brooks Baldwin singled scoring Kyle Teel
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 4th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 5th as Joey Loperfido whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• A batter later, Nathan Lukes belted a solo jack to right
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Addison Barger hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Bichette
• Four batters later, Loperfido singled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Myles Straw
• A batter later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac bunt by Lukes
• Sean Burke pitching line: 5IP 6H 6R (all earned) 3BB 2K 85 pitches (50 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 76 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The White Sox got a pair back in the bottom of the 7th as Mike Tauchman singled scoring Colson Montgomery and Josh Rojas
• The White Sox got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Lenyn Sosa singled scoring Miguel Vargas
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 White Sox 4

My Take:

• Jose Berrios gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. The Blue Jays definitelt should have let him go one more inning with the bullpen running on fumes. Berrios really didn't have any hard innings, except the 2nd inning. Berrios retired 8 in a row at one point, the first 4 batters he faced and the last 4 batters he faced/
• The bullpwn gave up 3 runs (all charged to Robinson Pina, on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Nick Sandlin retired every batter he faced/
• Offensively, Joey Loperfield (3RBI, including a solo HR) Nathan Lukes (2 RBI, including a solo HR), Bo Bichette (run scored, RBI) and  Addison Barger (2 RBI, including a solo HR) led the way
• Every starter except George Springer and Will Wagner reached base and all but Springer, Wagner and Vlad had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 4-6 with runners in scoring posirion
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 10 games and notch their 16th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Aaron Civalde

Game #91 Toronto Blue Jays (52-38) @ Chicago White Sox (30-60)

 

Game #90 LA Angels (43-46) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-38) - game recap

Bo Bichette scored twice, including a mammoth game-tying home run in a 3-2 come-from behind win over the Angels

After a second straight extra innings walk-off win, the Blue Jays were going for thir 7th straight win, 7th series sweep and  9th season series win. Righty Ryan Burr was reinstated from the 60-day IL. Righty Lazaro Estrada was optioned to AAA-ball. Andres Gimenez was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to yesterday) with a left ankle sprain. Will Robertson was DFA'd. Finally, Joey Loperfido was recalled from AAA-ball and got the start in RF. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (George Springer DH'd today). Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 7 games, complete their 7th series sweep and notch their 9th season series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels took the lead in the top of the 1st as Mike Trout whacke a solo blast to the opposite field in right
• The Blue Jayd tied it up in the bottom of the 4th as Bo Bichette hammered a solo bomb off the basin of the 3rd deck in left
• Four batters later, Joey Loperfido singled scoring Myles Straw
• The Angels tied it in the top of the 5th as Taylor Ward singled scoring Chad Stevens
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 3BB 9K 107 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Davis Schneider singled scoring Bichette
• Ty Anderson pitching line 5IP 8H 3R (all earmed) 2BB 2K 91 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 22nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Angels 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 9. He retired 6 in a row at one point. Due to Max Scherzer's thumb limiting him and injuries plus pitchers not getting deep in games lately, Gausnan was stretched to a few pitches over the 100 pitch mark. Certainly the high strikeout count and the 3 walks drove up the pitch count. Good thing the Blue Jays have an off-day mid-week and the all-star break in a week to gove everyone a much needed break.
• The bullpen threw 3.1 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits and 2 walks while striking out 5. Jeff Hoffman retited every batter he faced.
• It was Bo Bichette's turn to drove the offense, with 2 runs scored, including a mammoth game-tying home run. Joey Loperfido, freshly recalled, also joined in the fun with an RBI single. Davis Schneider drove in the other Blue Jays run
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road starting in Chicago tomorrow night. They will be looking to extend the win streak to 9 games. The White Sox took the series in Toronto, outscoring the Blue Jays 22-20. Ace Jose Berrios starts against White Sox righty Jose Berrios

Game #90 Los Angeles Angels (43-45) v. Toronto Blue Jays (51-38)

 

Game #89 LA Angels (43-45) @ Toronto Blue Jays (51-38) - game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in a pair of runs, including the game-winner in a 4-3 walk-off, extra innings win over the Angels

After a walk-off win on a sac bunt and error, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 7 games and notch their 15th series win of the season. Yimi Garcia was placed on the 15-day IL after a mishap with the hot tub/ice bath that sprained his right ankle. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the lineup as DH after the complete day off yesterday. George Springer was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in CF. Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 6 games and notch their 15th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a bases loaded walk to Jo Adell that forced in Zach Neto
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning of the inning as Addison Barger singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Angels retook the lead in the top of the 3rd on a sac fly by Adell that scored Neto
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Lukes
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 4IP 5H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 72 pitches (46 for strikes)
• Jack Kochanowicz pitching line: 5.1IP 6H 3R (all earned) 2BB 1K 82 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Angels tied it in the top of the 7th as Nolan Schaunel singled scoring Luis Renfigo\
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 11th as Barger singled scoring Myles Straw
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Angels 3 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 4 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. The first inning was rough for Scherzer as he hit the first batter he faced and walked in a run after loading the bases. Addison Barger made a huge throw to gun down Mike Trout at home to escape the jam. Scherzer retired 4 in a row, including striking out the side in the 2nd inning. The Blue Jays shoul definitely look at adding another starter at the trade deadline to save the bullpen and maybe give Scherzer an extra day between starts
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5 over the last 7 innings. A day after ruining Eric Lauer's start, Nick Sandlin retired every batter he faced. Making his big league debut, Lazaro gave up the game-tying run, but ate up 4 innings and struck out 4 batters. Brayden Fisher was credited with the win.
• Offensively, Addison Barger drove in a pair, including the game-winning run and George Springer went deep for the other two runs on the day. Springer deserves to be a reserve in the all-star game and should be a finalist for comeback player of the year.
• The Blue Jays were 3-17 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays have an outside shot at their 1st 100 win season if they keep playing this well
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 8 games and complete their 7th series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman starter against Angels lefty Tyler Anderson

Game #89 Los Angeles Angels (43-44) v. Toronto Blue Jays (50-38)

 

Game #88 LA Angels (43-44) @ Toronto Blue Jays (50-38) - game recap

 

Myles Straw scored the game winning run in a 4-3 extra-innings, walk-off win over the Angels

After a huge series sweep over the Yankees thanks to the bat of George Springer, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 6 games. Lefty Justin Bruihl was optioned back to AAA-ball. Righty Lazaro Estrada had his contract selected to the MLB roster. Anthony Santander was transferred to the 60-day IL. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup and at SS after missing a few days with a sore knee from stepping on an errant ball during warm-ups earlier this week. Vlad got the complete day off with Will Wagner at 1B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 6 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 6th as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Will Wagner
• A batter later, Gimenez left the game after aggravating an ankle injury 
• A batter after that Bo Bichette singled scoring Leo Jimenez
• A batter later, George Springer scored on a fielder's choice hit by Addison Barger. Angels SS Zach Neto was charged with a fielding error on the play
• Kyle Hendricks pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 3R (all earned) 0BB 2K 82 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Angels tied it up in the top of the 7th as Jo Adell hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Mike Trout and Taylor Ward
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 6K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 10th on a sac bunt by Ernie Clement that scored Myles Straw. Angels pitcher Sam Bachman was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Angels 3 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Eric Lauer was excellent again, firing 6 shutout innings before allowing a pair of hits in a 7th inning he probably never should have started given he was approaching 85 pitches and have never thrown over that limit this season. After walking Trout with 2 outs in the 1st inning, Lauer proceeded to retire 16 of the next 17 batters he faced. Lauer deserves to be in the rotation the remainder of the season
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs (2 of which were charged to starter Lauer) on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5 over the last 4 innings. Nick Sandlin needs to buy Lauer a big "I'm sorry" dinner for ruining his chance at a win. Chad Green was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced and was credited with the win.
• Small ball was the name of the game offensively with Bo Bichette and Andres Gimenez both knocking in runs with clutch base hits. The Blue Jays also took advantage of some sloppy Angels defense on the other 2 runs. 
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• With the win, the Blue Jays reached 50 wins on the season, just 2 games earlier than a certain 1993 world series winning team reached the 50 win mark
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to stretch the win streak to 7 games and notch their 15th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Angels righty Jack Kochanowicz.

Game #88 Los Angeles Angels (43-43) v. Toronto Blue Jays (49-38) AppleTV Exclusive

 

-Game #87 New York Yankees (48-39) @ Toronto Blue Jays (49-38) - game recap

 

George Springer homered twice in an 8-5 win over the Yankees to take over sole possession of 1st in the AL East

After hanging on by the skin of their teeth for another huge win over the Yankees that pulled them even with the Bronx Bombers for 1st in the AL East, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games, complete their 6th series sweep and take sole possession of 1st in the AL East. and likely a home playoff round. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes got the start in LF and the rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games, complete their 6th series sweep and take sole possession of 1st place in the AL East? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Addison Barger doubled scoring George Springer
• The Yankees tied it up in the top of the 3rd as Trent Grisham hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 4th as Anthony Volpe singled scoring Jasson Dominguez
• Three batters later, Volpe scored on a wild pitch by Chris Bassitt
• Clarke Schmidt pitching line: 3IP 4H 3R (all earned) 2BB 1K 55 pitches (31 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Lukes doubled scoring Will Wagner and Davis Schneider
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Barger belted a solo jack to right-center
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.2IP 8H 3R (all earned) 3BB 9K 113 pitches (72 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 7th as Jazz Chisholm Jr. doubled scoring Aaron Judge
• Two batters later, Cody Bellinger scored on a ground out hit by Volpe
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Springer drilled a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Lukes
• Jeff Hoffman threw a scoreless 9th for his 21st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Yankees 5

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking 3 and striking out 9. There really was no easy inning for Bassitt, who was working into and out of jams all night long. Manager John Schneider continues to lack any real touch when it comes to knowing when to pull a pitcher. He's ended plenty of pitchers nights at the pitch count Bassitt had after 5 innings. Intead he let Bassitt throw 113 pitches. The Blue Jays can ill-afford to lose Bassitt to injury for any length of time. They simply don't have a  viable option and Max Scherzer could be done for the season at any moment with his thumb injury. Alek Manoah won't be ready to play until August if everything goes right. Same for Rickey Tiederman.
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and sriking out 3 over the last 3.1  innings. Lefty Justin Bruihl retired every batter he faced
• The offence was led by George Springer (2HR, 3 runs scored, 4RBI), Addison Barger (solo HR, 2 RBI) and Nathan Lukes (scored twice, drove in 2 runs)
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 6 games as they welcome the Angels to town. The Angels took the series in LA back at the beginning of May, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-15. Eric Lauer gets the start for the Blue Jays. The Angels haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #87 New York Yankees (48-38) v. Toronto Blue Jays (48-38)

 

Game #86 New York Yankees (48-37) v. Toronto Blue Jays (47-38)

 

Game #85 New York Yankees (48-37) @ Toronto Blue Jays (47-38) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in 7 runs, including a grand slam, in a mammoth 12-5 comeback win over the Yankees

After a huge comback win over the Yankees thanks to a 4-run 6th inning, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games on the annual Canada Day game. The Blue Jays were looking to improve on a dubious 16-29 Canada Day record. They did not play on Canada day in 1981 (strike), 1993 (off-day) and 2020 (pandemic; season didn't start until July 24th. Jonatan Clase was optioned to AAA-ball and Leo Jimenez was recalled from AAA-ball and started at SS. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Alejandro Kirk was DH today. George Springer was in the lineup in RF despite leaving yesterday's game after slamming throat-first into the knee of Jazz Chisholm Jr. Davis Schneider was in LF and Andre Gimenez was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and snap the 2-game Canada Day losing streak? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jasson Dominguez singled scoring Paul Goldschmidt and Aaron Judge
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as George Springer whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Five batters later,  Andre Gimenez hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Davis Schneider and Myles Straw 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 4BB 3K 99 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 7th on a fielding error by Ernie Clement on a ball hit by Giancarlo Stanton that scored Cody Bellinger
• A batter later, Jazz Chisholm Jr scored on a fielder's choice hit by Dominguez. Vladimir Guerrero Jr was charged with a fielding error on the play 
• Max Fried pitching line: 6IP 3H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 99 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Clement singled scoring Gimenez
• A batter later,  Springer drilled a grand slam to left-center; also scoring Gimenez, Tyler Heineman and Addison Barger 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Clement that forced in Nathan Lukes
• A batter later, Springer singled scoring Gimenez and Barger
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 9th on a fielder's choice hit by Dominguez that scored Aaron Judge
• Final score: Blue Jays 12 Yankees 5

My Take: 

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3. Gausman gave up a pair in the first, retired 5 in a row then worked his way out of a couple of jams. He kept the big bats of Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton largely in check and more importantly in the ballpark
• The bullpen gave up three runs on 3 hits, a pair of fielding errors, 3 walks while striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. Which lefty reliever will last longer: Mason Fluharty or Justin Bruihl, who had 2 of the runs charged to him and retired just one batter? Brayden Fisher, who got the Blue Jays out of the mess Bruihl created, was credited with the win
• George Springer was excellent this afternoon. Less than 24 hours after leaving yesterday's game after slamming throat first into Jazz Chisholm Jr, Springer drove in 7 runs, including a grand slam, and led the Blue Jays to victory. To the players and managers picking the reserves for the all-star game, pick Springer, arguably the comeback player of the year, and dialling the clock back at least 5 years.
• Andres Gimenez also loomed large in this game, scoring three times and driving in 3 runs
• The Blue Jays were an impressive 5-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 4th straight win, 15th series win and a chance to draw even with the Yankees for 1st place in the AL East. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Yankees righty Will Warner

Game #85 New York Yankees (48-36) v. Toronto Blue Jays (46-38)

 

Game #84 New York Yankees (48-36) @ Toronto Blue Jays (46-38) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in 3 runs in a 5-4 comeback win over the Yankees

After notching a huge series win over the Red Sox thanks to some timely hitting and great work from the bullpen, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they started a week long homestand against the Yankees, who won the first series back in the Bronx at the end of April, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-7. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was a late scratch with right knee discomfort (Ernie Clement was at SS). George Springer was in RF with Will Wagner DH'ing today. Myles Straw got the start in CF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Davis Schneider 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 Yankees opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Jazz Chisholm Jr. Whacked a 2-run blast to right and into the Yankees bullpen; also scoring Trent Grisham
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th on a ground out by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.  that scored Ernie Clement 
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 0BB 7K 71 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Yankees added a run in the top of the 6th as Giancarlo Stanton singled scoring Jasson Dominguez
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring was. Davis Schneider 
• Two batters later, Clement singled scoring Straw
• Two batters later,  Guerrero Jr singled scoring Lukes and Clement. Springer was thrown out at 3B on the play and removed from the game after slamming throat-first into the knee of Yankees 3B Chisholm Jr.
• Carlos Rodon pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 96 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 8th as Cody Bellinger whacked a solo blast to right
• Jeff Hoffman threw a scoreless 9th for his 19th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Yankees 4

My Take:

• Max Scherzer threw 5 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 7. There has to be concern about the way Scherzer reacted with 2 outs in the 5th inning.  Having thrown about 70 pitches Scherzer winced and called Alejandro Kirk to the mound. Manager John Schneider and trainer Jose Minstrel quickly joined them on the mound.  Scherzer convinced them he was ok to finish the inning, and was rightfully lifted at the end of the inning. Given the injury history with the thumb affecting other aspects of his body, they should have pulled him right there and then. The Blue Jays can ill afford to have Scherzer lost for the next couple of months. 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 4 and striking out 5 over the last four innings. Mason Fluharty may need to be sent to the minors to work on things he he can't get out a left-handed batter. The good Chad Green showed up today and for once he kept the ball in the ballpark. Jeff Hoffman looks back. The Blue Jays closer was dealing tonight and making the Yankees batters look silly
• Here's hoping George Springer was merely winded when he ran into the knee of Jazz Chisholm Jr. The Blue Jays outfielder immediately left the field and went straight to the training room after being briefly attended to be a busy Jose Minstrel. Wouldn't be surprised if he misses a day or two.
• Offensively, Vlad led the way, driving in 3 runs. Nathan Lukes and Ernie Clement, who also scored twice, drove in the other Blue Jays runs
• The Blue Jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games in the all-important, "elbows up" Canada Day game. The Blue Jays will also be trying to improve their record on Canada Day to 17-29. They will also be looking to snap a 2-game losing skid on Canada Day. Kevin Gausman starts against Yankees lefty Max Fried

Game #84 New York Yankees (48-35) v. Toronto Blue Jays (45-38)

 

Game #83 Toronto Blue Jays (45-38) @ Boston Red Sox (41-44) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes scored a run and drove in a run in a 5-3 win over the Red Sox

After a blowout loss due to a bad day for the pitchers, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 14th series win and 7th season series win of the season. Righty Paxton Schultz was placed on th 15 day IL with right middle finger inflammation. Lefty Justin Bruihl was recalled from AAA-ball. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after a half-day off as DH yesterday (George Springer DH'd today). Jonatan Clase was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and  Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays notch their 14th series win and 7th 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 Addison Barger belted a solo jack to right
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb over the green monster in left
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Carlos Narvaez whacked a solo blast to right
• Three batters later,  Ceddanne Rafaela doubled scoring Trevor Story
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 4th as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Tyler Heineman 
• Walker Buehler pitching line: 4IP 4H 4R (all earned) 3BB 3K 72 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Lukes singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Red Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Romy Gonzalez doubled scoring Nick Sogard
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4.1IP 7H 3R (all earned) 0BB 4K 85 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 18th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Red Sox 3

My Take:

•  Eric Lauer battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits while walking none and striking out 4. After a clean 1st inning, Lauer gave up a pair to erase an early Blue Jays lead. You would have liked to have seen Lauer go a bit deeper into the game with Max Scherzer scheduled to start tomorrow and there being uncertainty with how deep he can go in the game with a wonky thumb that will likely be an issue the remainder of the season.  Then Kevin Gausman starts Canada day and the Blue Jays hope his best start of the season on Saturday translates to this week's game. It is likely the Blue Jays will look to acquire a starting pitcher at the trade deadline to give the rotation a bit of depth heading into the stretch drive. 
• The bullpen held the Bosox to a hit and a walk while striking out 5 over the last 4.2 innings. Jeff Hoffman capped it off by striking out the side in the 9th inning. Brandon Little also retired every batter he faced.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got things started with a bang courtesy of back-to-back bombs off the bats of Addiston Barger and Vladdy. Tyler Heineman was both a hero and a zero in the 5th inning, drawing a bases loaded walk to double the lead, but then getting picked off ay 1st base to kill a potential big inning. Nathan Lukes scored the game-winning run and drove in the final run of the day.
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring  position
• Up next, the Blue Jays commence a huge series against the Yankees, who sit just 2.5 games up on the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. The Yankees took the series in the Bronx at the end of April, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-7. Max Scherzer starts against Yankees lefty Carlos Rodon

Game #83 Buffalo Bisons (44-38) @ Pawtucket Sox (41-43)

 

Game #82 Toronto Blue Jays (44-38) @ Boston Red Sox (41-43) - game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 15-1 loss to the Red Sox

After a nice shutout win over the Red Sox thanks to a team effort offensively and 7 shutout innings from ace Jose Berrios, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to three games, notch their 14th series win and 7th season series win of the season. Alan Roden was optioned to AAA-ball and Will Wagner was recalled from AAA-ball in his place. Chris Bassitt 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 LF, Myles Straw 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 three games, notch their 14th series win and 7th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Wilyer Abreu bashed a 3-run blast just inside the right foul pole; also scoring Abraham Toro and Carlos Narvaez
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Abreu doubled scoring Roman Anthony
• A batter later, Trevor Story singled scoring Toro and Abreu
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Addison Barger doubled Myles Straw 
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a bases loaded walk to Toro that forced in Ceddanne Rafaela
• A batter later, Jarren Duran scored on a sac fly by Narvaez
• A batter after that, Anthony scored on a rare throwing error by catcher Alejandro Kirk on a stolen base
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 2IP 8H 9R (8 earned) 4BB 3K 70 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Nick Sogard singled home Story
• A batter later, Rafaela belted a 2-run jack over the green monster in left; also scoring Sogard
• The Red Sox added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Romy Gonzalez hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Narvaez
• The Red Sox added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a sac fly by Toro that scored Duran
• Final score: Red Sox 15 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt was lit up for 9 runs (8 earned) on 8 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over 2 innings. He actually retired the first two batters he faced, then gave up three consecutive hits, capped by a 3-run bomb around the imfamous Pesky's pole. He simply did not have it today. Bassitt's ERA is now over 4.00 on the season.
• The bullpen gave up 6 runs on 9 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 6 innings. None of the pitchers retired every batter faced. Brayden Fisher didn't have any runs charged to him, but all three inherited runners that were on base when he came in to the ball game scored. Mason Fluharty looked better than he had in recent appearances, but he gave up a mammoth home run.
• Offensively, Addison Barger drove in the only Blue Jays run.
• The Blue Jays were 0-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 14th series win and 7th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Red Sox righty Walker Buehler

Game #82 Toronto Sceptres (44-37) @ Boston Fleet (40-43)

 

Game #81 Toronto Blue Jays (44-37) @ Boston Red Sox (40-43) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 7 shutout innings in a 9-0 shutout win over the Red Sox

After a huge shutout win over the Guardians thanks to 8 strong innings from Kevin Gausman, a 3-run single from Kirky and a 2-run single off the bat of Nathan Lukes, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Boston. The Blue Jays have won 5 of the first 7 games in the season series, outscoring the Red Sox 30-26. Ace Jose Berrios got the start witth Alejandro Kirk behind the plate, Vlad was in the lineup despite getting drilled in the forearm by a pitch yesterday. George Springer was back in the lineup at DH after the complete day off yesterday. Nathan Lukes was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:-

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Bo Bichette singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Clement singled home Springer
• Brayan Bello pitching line 6IP 8H 3R (all earned) 3BB 1K 104 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Addison Barger
• Four batters later, Guerrero Jr. as forced in on a bases loaded walk to Andres Gimenez
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Springer singled scoring Barger 
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. Scored on a sac fly by Myles Straw
• Two batters later, Gimenez singled scoring Clement and Kirk
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 4H 0R 1BB 8K 91 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Final score: .Blue Jays 9 Red Sox 0

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 7 shutout innings,  scattering 4 hits, walking 1 and striking out 8. He retired 9 in a row at one point.  He benefited from a couple of double plays behind him and was pretty efficient,  needing 91 pitches to record 21 outs.  That's huge since the blue jays won't get an off-day until July 10, barring inclement weather.
• The bullpen threw 2 scoreless innings and Paxton Schultz retired every batter he faced.
• It was a team effort offensively. Every starter except Nathan Lukes and Jonatan Clase got a hit and either drove in a run or scored a run.
• The Blue Jays have a 44-37 record at the halway mark of the season. This puts them on pace for 88 wins. Will that be enough to punch their ticket to the playoffs with at least a wild card spot. The division title is very much in play with the Yankees struggling lately. The Rays are red hot at the moment. The seven games against the Rays in September could be huge for playoff positioning or potentially the division title.
• The Blue Jays were 7-17 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 14th series win of the season and clinch their 7th season series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Red Sox righty Lucas Giolito

Game #81: HALF WAY! Toronto Rock (43-37) @ Boston Cannons (40-42)

 

Game #80 Toronto Blue Jays (43-37) @ Cleveland Guardians (40-39) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 8 shutout innings in a 6-0 shutout win over the Guardians

-

After a walk-off loss in the 10th inning last night, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 13th series win of the season and earn the season series split. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. George Springer had the complete day off with Jonatan Clase in LF, Myles Straw in CF and Nathan Lukes in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays notch their 13th series win of the season and earn the season series split? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Jonatan Clase and Tyler Heineman
• A batter later, Myles Straw scored on a missed catch error charged to Guardians 1B Kyle Manzardo on a bad pickoff attempt by Guardians SP Tanner Bibee
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left the game prior to the bottom of the 4th after getting drilled in the forearm by a pitch in the top of the 3rd
• Tanner Bibee pitching line: 6IP 3H 3R (2 earned) 0BB 7K 96 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the top of the 9th as Alejandro Kirk singled Addison Barger, Ernie Clement and Clase. Guardians LF Steven Kwan was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 2H 0R 1BB 6K 104 pitches (77 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Guardians 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 8 shutout innings, allowing 2 hitsm walking 1 and striking out 6. He had out streaks of 6, 7 and 8 batters. No one advanced past 2nd base. This start is really going to help the bullpen, which has been pitching a lot of innings due to injury and the ineffectiveness of Bowden Frances
• Chad Green pitched a scoreless inning, walking a batter and managing to keep the ball in the ball park
• I want to address the hit batters today. Kevin Gausman hit Jose Ramirez with a pitch after Vladdy left the game after getting hit by a pich himself in the top of thr 3rd. This whole thing might have been prevented if home plate umpire Tom Hanahan had ejected Tanner Bibee after he drilled Vlad. Accident or not, the league needs to protect its star players. It's doubtful the league is going to step in with any suspensions or fines, but they should start disciplining more often.
• Alejandro Kirk (3-run single; was credited with 2RBI) and Nathan Lukes (2-run RBI single) did the damage offensively
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Boston. The Blue Jays have won 5 of the first 7 games in the season series, outscoring the Red Sox 30-26. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Red Sox righty Brayan Bello.

Game #80 Toronto Tempo (42-37) @ Cleveland Rockers (40-38)

 

Game #79 Toronto Blue Jays (42-37) @ Cleveland Guardians (40-38) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run single in a 5-4 extra innings loss to the Guardians

After a big win thanks to a 10- run, 14-hit output, The Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and were looking to notch their 13th series win of the season. The Blue Jays acquired righty Robinson Pina from the Marlins for minor league righty Colby Martin. Max Scherzer as activated from the 15 day witand got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Spencer Turnbull was DFA'd. Alan Roden was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jose ramirez singled scoring Steven Kwan
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Guardians retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Gabriel Arias doubled scoring Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 4BB 83 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 6th as George Springer singled scoring Addison Barger and Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later,  Alejandro Kirk scored on a sac fly by Ernie Clement 
• Gavin Williams pitching line: 5H 4R (3 earned) 3BB 3K 85 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Guardians tied it in the bottom of the 7th as Lane Thomas belted a solo jack to left
• The Guardians walked it off in the bottom of the 10th as Ramirez singled home Angel Martinez
• Final score: Guardians 5 Blue Jays 4 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Max Scherzer gave the Blue Jays everything they could have hoped for in his first start back since leaving his first regular season start after three innings when a troublesome thumb started affecting his right lat. He was able to get through 5 innings and over 80 pitches.  There is really only 1 or 2 pitches he'll want back.  His timing was a bit off and he ended up walking a batter because he got into the set position before the batter was ready. The big test will be how he is feeling the next day or two.  Hopefully he remains healthy and can be that fourth starter the Blue Jays are lacking at the moment
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. For the second night in a row, Mason Fluharty struggled. Last night, he walked 2 batters and retired just one batter. Tonight, he couldn't record an out, this time walking the first 2 batters he faced and giving up a single to the third and final batter. Time to DFA him and Chad Green too
• The offence tonight was led by George Springer (2RBI), Vlad (2 runs scored, solo HR) and Ernie Clement (sac fly)
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the rubber match where the Blue Jays will try to notch their 13th series win and earn the season series split. Kevin Gausman starts against Guardians righty Tanner Bibee

Game #79 Argos (42-36) @ Browns (39-38)

 

Game #78 Toronto Blue Jays (42-36) @ Cleveland Guardians (39-38) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a grand slam and scored three times in a 10-6 win over the Guardians

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week-long road trip that began in Cleveland tonight. The Guardians won the series in Toronto back at the beginning of May, outscoring the Blue Jays 13-12. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday (George Springer served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF and Jonatan Clase was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. 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 Ernie Clement doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• Two batters later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a fielding error by Guardians RF Johnathan Rodriguez on a ball hit by Myles Straw that scored George Springer 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Kirk singled scoring Clement
• LT Allen pitching line: 5.2IP 8H 4R (3 earned) 2BB 4K 104 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Gaurdians got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Carlos Santana whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 86 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Jonatan Clase singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Springer
• The Guardians got three back in the bottom half of the inning as Lane Thomas belted a 3-run jack to left; also scoring Rodriguez and Steven Kwan
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the top of the 8th as Springer hammered a grand slam to left-center; also scoring Clement, Guerrero Jr. and Kirk
• The Guardians got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Nolan Jones that scored Santana\
• The Gaurdians got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Kyle Manzandro whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Guardians 6

My Take:

• Eric Lauer threw 5.1 solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. To me, he has earned the right to stay in the rotation the rest of the season. The Blue Jays need a  starter that can pitch into the 6th inning or later consistently. They can't keep going back to the well and having bullpen days every few days. Who knows how much Max Scherzer will be able to contribute tomorrow and the remainder of the season? It's not great that they had to push back a side session after he experienced more soreness than expected on the weekend. Bowden Francis has been having a rough season and needs to get healthy before he'll pitch again. Spencer Turnbull looked shaky in his last start and none of the other relievers are built up to pitch more than a couple of innings max. Alek Manoah won't be ready to pitch until August if all goes well and the same goes for Rickey Tiederman, 
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 3 hits and 4 walks over the last 3.1innings. Chad Green continues to struggle with keeping the ball in the ballpark. He gave up his 10th home run of the season. Lefty Mason Fluharty has just been struggling lately. He walked 2 of the 3 batters he faced and both those runners came around to score. Braydon Fisher was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• The offence came through in a big way, scoring 10 runs on 14 hits, 5 walks and a fielding error. George Springer (grand slam, 3 runs scored), Ernie Clement (3 runs scored, RBI single), Jonatan Clase (2-run double), Alejandro Kirk (2RBI, run scored), and Vlad (2 runs scored) led the way.
• The Blue Jays were 4-14 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams

Game #78 Raptors (41-36) @ Cavaliers (39-37)

 

Game #77 Chicago White Sox (25-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-36) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in both Blue Jays runs in a 4-2 come-from-behind loss to the White Sox

After a solid win over the White Sox thanks to an excellent game from Jose Berrios and a 3-RBI day from Davis Schneider, the Blue Jays were looking for 2 straight wins and to notch their 13th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. Alan Roden was back in the lineup in LF after missing a couple of days after crashing into the CF wall. Addison Barger was also back in the lineup at tbe hot corner after missing a day with hip soreness. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 4th on a fielder's choice hit by Luis Robert Jr. that scored Chase Meidroth
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 5th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Myles Straw
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K 82 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Bichette singled scoring Alan Roden
• Adrian Houser pitching line: 6.1IP 7H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K90 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The White Sox tied it in the top of the 8th on a fielding error by Jeff Hoffman on a ball hit by Andrew Benintendi that scored Austin Slater 
• A batter later, Miguel Vargas doubled scoring Michael A. Taylor and Meidroth
• Grant Taylor pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: White Sox 4 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt fired 6 innings giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. Bassitt retired the first 9 batters he faced and 5 of the last 6 batters on the day. Was he removed a bit early? Perhaps, but Bassitt had serious issues in similar heat in Tamps Bay a couple of turns ago and you don't want to mess with heat stroke. Also, the bullpen should still be pretty fresh after Jose Berrios pitched 7.2 innings yesterday. First man out of the bullpen, Yariel Rodriguez, threw just 5 pitches to 1 batter yesterday as well.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 3 hits, 4 walks and a very unfortunate fielding error by closer Jeff Hoffman that would have ended the 8th with the Blue Jays maintaining a 1-run lead. Two of the runs were charged to Brandon Little, who took the loss. Yariel Rodriguez and Brayden Fisher both retired every batter they faced.
• Bo Bichette drove in both runs for the Blue Jays
• The Blue Jays were very sloppy on the base paths, twice making unfortunate choices at 3rd base that cost them runs, Bichette's decision to try and score from 3rd base in the 7th being the more egregious error. Hindsight is 20/20, but had the Blue Jays  put the hit and run on in the 9th, then the double play might not have happened, and possibly both runners could have been safe.
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week, starting in Cleveland on Tuesday. The Guardians took the series in Toronto at the beginning of May, outscoring the Blue Jays 13-12. Eric Lauer starts against Guardians lefty LT Allen

Game #77 Chicago White Sox (24-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-35)

 

Game #76 Chicago White Sox (24-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-35) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threww 7.2 strong innings in a 7-1 victory over the White Sox

After a brutal loss due to a failed bullpen day, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. Addison Barger was a late scratch due to some hip soreness. Nathan Lukes took his place in RF. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Bo Bichette led off with a solo bomb to dead center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement singled scoring George Springer. White Sox RF Austin Slater was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later, Davis Schneider singled scoring Clement 
• Three batters later, Nathan Lukes singled home Schneider
• The White Sox got one back in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Miguel Vargas that scored Andrew Benintendi. Vladimir Guerrero Jr was charged with a throwing error on the play
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Guerrero Jr belted a solo jack to left-center 
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7.2IP 2H 1R (unearned) 3BB 5K 98 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Aaron Civale pitching line: 7IP 9H 5R (all earned) 1BB 2K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Schneider doubled scoring Springer and Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 White Sox 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios fired 7.2 outstanding innings,  giving up one unearned run on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. He entered the 7th inning having thrown just 72 pitches. That is efficient pitching! The Blue jays badly needed Berrios to pitch as far as he did with the uncertainty around Max Scherzer, who had his side session pushed back a day with his troublesome thumb barking at him, and a scheduled bullpen day midweek, and not to mention that Kevin Gausman has been struggling lately. Plus,  after Monday's off day, the Blue Jays play 16 straight days, barring rainouts, through July 9th. It's imperative that the Blue Jays starters do their part and pitch deep into games.
• The bullpen was perfect in the last 1.1 innings and Chad Green needed just 12 pitches to get through the 9th inning.
• Talk about taking advantage of an opportunity. Davis Schneider was a late addition to the lineup after Addison Barger was scratched with some hip soreness. Schneider promptly drove in 3 runs and scored one himself. Vlad and Bo Bichette, who has shown more power this season, went deep. Those late 3 insurance runs allowed the pitchers to pitch with a bit less pressure.
• Every Blue Jays stsarter except Andres Gimenez had a hit and all but Gimenez, Myles Straw and Alejandro Kirk either scored a run or drove in a run
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Adrian Houser

Game #76 White Sox (24-52) @ Team that lost to the White Sox (40-35)

 

Game #75 Chicago White Sox (24-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-35) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 7-1 loss to the White Sox

After dropping a game yesterday thanks to a rough start from Kevin Gausman and the comeback falling short, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win as they welcomed the White Sox to town. The Blue Jays won 5 of the 6 games in the season series last year, outscoring the White Sox 33-14. Nick Sandlin was activated from the 15-day IL and Nathan Lukes was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL. Lefty Justin Bruihl and OF Will Robertson were optioned back to AAA-ball. Spencer Turnbull got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Andrew Benintendi hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• The White Sox added a run in the top of the 2nd as Austin Slater singled scoring Lenyn Sosa
• Three batters later, Benintendi singled scoring Slater. Jose Rojas was thrown out at home on the play
• Grant Taylor pitching line: 1IP 9H 0R 0BB 1K 13 strikes (9 for strikes)
• The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Luis Roberts Jr hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Miguel Vargas
• Four batters later, Josh Rojas doubled scoring Sosa and Slater
• Spencer Turnbull pitching line: 2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 45 pitches (25 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Tyler Heineman
• Final score: White Sox 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Spencer Turnbull battled through 2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking 2. Turnbull gave up runs in all 3 innings, To me, Eric Lauer has shown he is the best pitcher to start bullpen games. With so much uncertainty around Max Scherzer and his sore thumb, the Blue Jays are essentially needing to find ways to get through games. I am not a big fan of the opener since it requires the other relievers to cover more innings. The Blue Jays intended to have Turnbull pitch deeper into tonight's game, but he couldn't get outs efficientlly.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 11 over the last 7 innings. All three runs were charged to Mason Fluharty. Brauden Fisher and Jeff Hoffman both retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run and he and Ernie Clement were the only Blue Jays to reach base multiple times
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against White Sox righty Aaron Civale

Game #75 Sox that are white (23-52) @ Birds that are blue (40-34)

 

Game #74 Arizona Diamondbacks (37-37) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-34) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk homered twice and drove in 3 runs in a 9-5 loss to the Diamondbacks

After another solid win on the strength of some fine pitching and 6 runs against the Diamondbacks beleaguered bullpen, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and to complete their 5th series sweep and 4th season series sweep. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jonatan Clase returning to the lineup and in CF after missing a game after getting hit in the knee by a pitch on Tuesday. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and to complete their 5th series sweep and 4th season series sweep? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Diamondbacks opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Eugenio Suarez whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Josh Naylor
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• The Diamondbacks added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Suarez doubled scoring Ketel Marte and Pavin Smith
• The Diamondbacks added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Smith hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Marte
• Four batters later, Naylor scored on a sac fly by Randal Grichuk
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 4.1IP 7H 7R (all earned) 3BB 4K 81 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks added a run in the top of the 6th as Marte doubled scoring Jose Herrera
• A batter later, Geraldo Perdomo scored on a sac fly by Smith
• Ryne Nelson pitching line: 5.2IP 1H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 83 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Kirk whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right and into the Diamondbacks bullpen
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Jonatan Clase hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• Three batters later. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Addison Barger. Dbacks ,LF, and ex-Blue Jay, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was charged with a throwing error on the play
• A batter later, Kirk doubled home Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Diamondbacks 9 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman was lit up for 7 runs on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. As is the case when he struggles, location and command was an issue and the Diamondbacks took full advatage. He actually retired the first 4 batters he faced before issuing a walk to ex-Blue Jay Randal Grichuk. The Dbacks took him deep twice for 4 of the 7 runs he gave up. His next start in Cleveland won't be any easier either.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 4.2 innings. Braydon Fisher was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Alejandro Kirk drove the offence today, homering twice and driving in a third run. He was the only Blue Jay to get a hit off Diamondbacks starter Ryne Nelson. Vlad drove in a run and scored a run
• The Blue Jays were 1-1 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the White Sox come to town for a weekend series. The Blue Jays won 5 of the 6 games in the season series last year, outscoring the White Sox 33-14

Game #74 Arizona Arizonians (36-37) @ Toronto Torontonians (40-33)

 

Game #73 Arizona Diamondbacks (36-37) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-33) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in 3 runs in an 8-1 win over the Diamondbacks

After a big comeback win on the strength of back-to-back dingers off the bats of Bo Bichette and Addision Bargerm the Blue Jays were trying to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 11th series win of the season and 7th series win of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer was in CF with the two injuries to Myles Straw and Jonatan Clase that occurred in last nights game. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Davis Schneider got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 11 series wins and 7 season series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring as Bo Bichette led off with a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd on a catcher's interference call against Diamondbacks catcher Jose Herrera that forced in Tyler Heineman
• Edurardo Rodriguez pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 2R (1 earned) 3BB 4K 98 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks got one back in the top of the 6th on a ground out hit by Lourdes Gurriel Jr. that scored Corbin Carroll
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 75 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger doubled scoring Alan Roden
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. doubled home Bichette and Barger
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Heineman that scored Ernie Clement
• A batter later, Andres Gimenez scored on a ground out hit by Bichette
• Two batters later, Guerrero Jr.. singled scoring Roden
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Diamondbacks 1

My Take

• Eric Lauer threw 5 shutout innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. Lauer has been making a case to be in the rotation or at least the long man option out of the bullpen. I'm not really a big fan of using an opener if you have a pitcher capable of throwing what a starter throws. The Blue Jays should run with Lauer in the rotation, at least through to the all-star break. He has earned it.
• The bullpen gave up one inherited run, 2 hits no walks and 4 strikeouts over the last 4 innings. Yariel Rodriguez, who gave up the inherited run on a productive out, retired every batter he faced and ate up two of the innings
• The bats took advatage of a mediocre Dbacks bullpenm plating 6 runs over the 6th and 7th innings to put the game out of reach. There was contribution throughout the lineup with every starter but Davis Schneider reaching base and all but Schneider and Alejandro Kirk getting a hit
• The Blue Jays were 3-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 5th series sweep and 4th season series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Diamondbacks righty Ryne Nelson

Game #73 Arizona Snakeys (36-36) @ Toronto Blueys (39-33)

 

Game #72 Arizona Diamondbacks (36-36) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-33) - game recap

 

Addison Barger hit a walk-off HR in the bottom of the 9th in a 5-4 comeback win over the Diamondacks

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week-long homestand that started tonight against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 24-13. Bowden Francis was placed on the 15-day IL with right-shoulder impingement and righty Eric Swanson was DFA'd. Righty Paxson Schultz was recalled from AAA-ball. Lefty Justin Bruihl had his contact selected from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (George Springer got the half day off as DH tonight). Will Robertson was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the week and homestand 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. doubled scoring Addison Barger
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Guerrero Jr. annihilated a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center 
• The Diamondbacks got one back in the top of the 4th as Pavin Smith singled scoring Josh Naylor
• Jonatan Clase left the game prior to the top of the 5th after getting hit in the knee by a pitch
• The Diamondbacks tied it up in the top of the 5th as Ketel Marte singled scoring Corbin Carroll. Addison Barger was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later Naylor doubled scoring Marte. Myles Straw was injured on the play,  crashing into the CF wall.  Oh yeah and he came in as an injury replacement at the beginning of the inning
• Brandon Pfaadt pitching line: 5IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 81 pitches (46 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks added a run in the top of the 7th as Eugenio Suarez singled scoring Marte
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Guerrero Jr singled home Bo Bichette
• The Blue jays tied the game in the bottom of the 9th as Bichette belted a solo jack to left
• A batter later, Barger hammered a solo bonb off the basing of the 3rd deck in right
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Diamondbacks 4

My Take:

•  Chris Bassitt threw 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hiis while walking 1 and striking out 5. He got a bit unfortunate on two of the runs with Addison Barger making a throwing error on a cannon to 3rd base that Ernie Clement could not handle and Myles Straw almost made a great play two batters later on s deep fly ball, but missed the catch and ended up leaving the game with an apparent ankle injury. For at least the next two turns through the rotation,  it's going to be crucial that Bassitt, Jose Berrios and kevin Gausman get as deep into games as possible to save the bullpen that will be used heavily,  potentially up to the all star break. Alek Manoah isn't expected back from Tommy John surgery until August at the earliest and with Max Scherzer, who knows if his thumb can handle more than about 50 pitches? Either way, expect general manager Ross Atkins to be listening to trade offers on pitching help and be looking to the waiver for someone to become available.
• As I mentioned in the point above, the bullpen is expected to face heavy usage the next couple od weeks at least with Bowden Francis hitting the IL. Tonight, it gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 4 and striking out 1 over the last 3 innings. The Blue Jays used 4 relievers to get the 9 outs. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• The offence came through when it had to with back-to-back bombs off the bats of Bo Bichette and  to walk it off. Vlad took care of the other 3 Blue Jays runs with 3RBI, including a mammoth HR. Vlad finished the day a triple shy of the cycle.
• The outfield depth is about to be tested in a big way. Daulton Varsho, Nathan Lukes and Anthony Santander are all already on the IL. Should Clase and Straw, or even one require an IL stint, the Blue Jays would need to bring up another outfielder and Alan Roden and George Springer would likely share time at CF with Davis Schneider, Will Robertson and Addison Barger covering the corner outfield positions. 
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring posittion
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 11th series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Diamondbacks lefty Eduardo Rodriguez