Wildcard Round Game #1 Tigers (0-0) @ Guardians (0-0), Padres (0-0) @ Cubs (0-0), Red Sox (0-0) @ Yankees (0-0), Reds (0-0) @ Dodgers (0-0)

 

Game #162 Tampa Bay Rays (77-85) @ Toronto Blue Jays (94-68) - game recap

Alejandro Kirk belted 2 huge home runs, including a grand slam and drove in 6 runs in a 13-4 comeback win over the Rays to capture the AL East title and earn a bye into the divisonal round

 

And it all comes down to game 162. After a huge win yesterday thanks to 5 shutout innings from rookie phenom Trey Yesavage who started this season in Dunedin and worked his way through all 4 minor league tiers, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 11th series sweep and punch their ticket to the ALDS with a week of much needed rest and recovery. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF and Anthony Santander was in RF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 11th series sweep and punch their ticket to the ALDS? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonathan Aranda singled scoring Richie Palacios
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer
• Three batters later, Alejandro Kirk smashed a grand slam to left-center; also scoring Davis Schneider, Guerrero Jr. and Daulton Varsho
• The Rays got a pair back in the top of the 3rd as Aranda singled scoring Bob Seymour and Palacios
• Two batters later, Jake Magnum singled home Aranda
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 3.2IP 8H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 85 pitches (52 for strikes) 
• Ian Seymour pitching line: 3.1IP 7H 6R (all earned) 2BB 5K 81 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 1st lon a sac fly by Andre Gimenez that scored Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the button of the 5th as Kirk hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Anthony Santander
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Addison Barger hammered a 2-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Varsho
• Two batters later, Myles Straw tripled scoring Clement 
• A batter later, Springer belted a 2-run jack to straightaway center; also scoring Straw
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Rays 4

My Take 

• Kevin Gausman battled through 3.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. He was n decentt shape through 2 innings with 30 odd pitches thrown. Sure he put his team behind early, but he came up with a HUGE 1-2-3 inning. The Rays got to him in the third inning and just drove up the pitch count, knocking him out of the game with the bases loaded and the go-ahead run just a hit away. It was a calculated risk to start him today - best starter on the team but prone to clunkers like today and now he would be unavailable if the Blue Jays lose and the Yankees lose. 
• The bullpen was superb, firing 5.1 shutout innings, giving up a hit and 2 walks while striking out 9. Mason Fluharty, Brayden Fisher and Eric Lauer all retired every batter they faced. Brandon Little came in and struck out the side. 
• It was a team effort offensively. Alejandro Kirk hit a HUGE grand slam to put the Blue Jays up by 4 runs after the 1st inning and came through again in the 5th with a 2-run blast to restore the 4-run cushion. George Springer capped off his tremendous comeback season with a 2-run jack to cap off the scoring. Vlad drew the Blue Jays even with a huge RBI single (he had other chances to convert and failed. The Blue Jays will need his big bat to be on fire in a week). Addison Barger belted a 2-run jack and Myles Straw tripled home a run. Up and down the lineup, the bats came through. The Blue Jays had control of their destiny and they took full advantage of it.
• The Blue Jays were 5-14 with runners in scoring positon
• The Blue Jays didn't need the Orioles help and they weren't getting it either. The Yankees won on the final day.
• The comeback kids did it again! The Blue Jays end the year with an impressive 49 comeback wins, one shy of the franchise record of 50 set by the juggernaut 1987 team
• The Blue Jays finish with a record of 94-68. The world series winning 1992 and 1993 teams finshed 96-66 and 95-67 respectively
• Up next, a well deserved week off as they await the winner of the wild card series between the Yankees and Red Sox. The Blue Jays won the season series 8-5 aganst the Red Sox, but the Red Sox outscored the Blue Jays 56-53. The Blue Jays also won the season series against the Yankees 8-5, outscoring the Yankees 70-59. The Blue Jays will have full options to start game 1. Look for Shane Bieber or Kevin Gausman to get the assignment. Here's hoping Chris Bassitt is good to go as well.

Game #162 Tampa Bay Rays (77-84) v. Toronto Blue Jays (93-68)

 

Game #161 Tampa Bay Rays (77-84) @ Toronto Blue Jays (93-68) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in a pair and scored twice in a 5-1 win over the Rays

After a huge win over the Rays thanks to a clutch 2-run home run from Nathan Lukes,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 27th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start in left field.  Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 27th 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 Addison Barger and Davis Schneider
• A batter later, Andres Gimenez singled home Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of 5th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Clement 
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5IP 5H 0R 2BB 5K 94 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Rays got one back in the top of the 6th as Jonathan Aranda hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Joe Boyle pitching line: 5IP 5H 4R (all earned) 3BB 5K 92 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rays 1

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage fired 5 shutout innings,  scattering 5 hits,  walking 2 and striking out 5. The rookie phenom continues an outstanding season that started in Vancouver and progressed through all 4 tiers of the minor league system. Heck if either Jose Berrios or Chris Bassitt aren't able to go, I'd throw him on the playoff roster.
• The bullpen was mostly solid giving up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7 over the last 4 innings. Justin Bruihl was excellent in his one inning, striking out 2 batters. 
• Offensively, Ernie Clement and Andres Gimenez had clutch hits to give the Blue Jays an early 3-0 advantage. A struggling Alejandro Kirk anihilated a bomb to the second deck in left to put the game out of reach. It would be nice if Vlad could get his ice cold bat going tomorrow. He needs a week off since something is obviously ailing him and impacting his swing
• The Blue Jays were 3-6 with runners in scoring position
• The Yankees also won earlier today, setting up a winner takes all final Sunday. Quite simply, the Blue Jays win and they get a bye to the ALDS and home field advantage through the ALCS, regardless of what the Yankees do tomorrow. It's great that baseball starts every game at the same time on the final day so no team gets an advantage scoreboard watching
• Up next, the last game of the regular season, where the Blue Jays will be looking to extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 10th sweep of the season and punch their ticket to the ALDS and the all-important home field advantage through the ALCS.  Kevin Gausman starts against Rays lefty Ian Seymour

Game #161 Tampa Bay Rays (77-83) v. Toronto Blue Jays (92-68)

 

Game #160 Tampa Bay Rays (77-83) @ Toronto Blue Jays (92-68) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in 3 runs, including a go-ahead 2-run HR in a 4-2 win over the Rays

After a huge win on the strength of a 6-run 6th inning thanks to a grand slam off the bat of Daulton Varsho and a 2-run dinger by George Springer, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins as they opened the final series of the regular season against the Rays, who have won 7 of the first 10 meetings of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 51-26. Alek Manoah was claimed off waivers by the Braves. Lefty Justin Bruihl was recalled from AAA-ball and righty Paxton Schultz was optioned to AAA-ball. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's huge win over the Bosox. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the button of the 1st as Nathan Lukes singled scoring George Springer
• The Rays tied it in the top of the 2nd as Junior Caminero whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right
• A batter later, Jonathan Aranda whacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Rays bullpen
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom  half of the inning as Ernie Clement singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Blue jays took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Lukes belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Springer
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 3K 90 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Adrian Houser pitching line: 6IP 7H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 96 pitches (66 for strikes) Jeff Hoffman pitched a scoreless 9th for his 33rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Rays 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 5 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. 2 mistake pitches that went over the wall in right was the damage against him today. Bieber retired 6 in a row at one point. He should be getting a start in the playoffs, hopefully in the divisional round, which would give him a full week off.
• The bullpen threw 4 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and walking 3. Mason Fluharty was excellent, firing 2 perfect innings and striking out 4. It will be defibrilator time for Blue Jays fans when Jeff Hoffman comes in to close out a game in the playoffs. He barely escaped a jam caused by him walking 2 batters. His pitches were not close on his 11 balls. The Blue Jays may want to look at a different closer next year. If he had converted even half of his 7 blown saves, this win would have clinched the AL East title.
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes led the way, driving in 3-runs, including a 2-run blast in the 5th that turned out to be the difference in the game. Ernie Clement drove in the other Blue Jays run. Vlad has to start picking it up offensively. He hit into a rally-killing DP in the 2nd inning and popped out to end the inning in the 7th.
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position
• This was the 48th comeback win of the year, 2 comeback wins behind the juggernaut 1987 squad that had 50 comeback wins
• The Yankees also won today which means the Blue Jays could clinch the AL East tomorrow if they win their matinee against the Rays and the Yankees lose a few hours later to the Orioles. At worst, the Blue Jays would host a wild card series likely against the Red Sox
• Up next,  the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 27th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage starts against Rays righty Joe Boyle

Game #160 Tampa Bay Rays (77-82) v. Toronto Blue Jays (91-68)

 

Game #159 Boston Red Sox (87-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (91-68) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a grand slam in a 6-1 win over the Red Sox 

After a brutal loss due to a rough first inning from Max Scherzer, Jose Berrios giving up a 3-run HR and absolutely nothing from the offence, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time this season. Jose Berrios was placed on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation and Paxson Schultz was recalled from AAA-ball. It was bullpen day with Louis Varland starting with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the start in LF with George Springer serving as DH. Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 5th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Louis Varland pitching line: 2IP 0H 0R 0BB 3K 23 pitches (16 for strikes)
• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of 6th as Daulton Varsho hit a grand slam to right-center and into the Red Sox bullpen: also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Addison Barger and Anthony Santander 
• Four batters later, George Springer whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right
• Brayan Bello pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 3K 89 pitches (54 for strikes
• The Red Sox got one back in the top of the 7th as Trevor Story singled scoring Jarren Duran
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Red Sox 1

My Take:

• Louis Varland did his job as the opening, firing 2 perfect innings and striking out 3 batters. The bullpen game was necessitated by both Jose Berrios and Chris Bassitt on the IL. If all goes well and the Blue Jays clinch the division before Sunday,  he could be in line to be the opener in another bullpen game
• The rest of the bullpen experienced mixed results. Eric Lauer threw 3 perfect innings. Yariel Rodriguez, who was credited for the w and Brandon Little also both retired every batter they faced. Braydon Fisher gave up the Red Sox only run and Jeff Hoffman loaded the bases before inducing a pop-fly to end the game. This could be the team's achilles heel
• Daultton Varsho (grand slam) and George Springer (2-run HR) drove the offence
• This win was huge since the Yankees were poised to sweep the White Sox. The Blue Jays also clinched a bye to the divisional round for the AL East division winner
• Up next, the Blue Jays welcome the Rays for the final series of the regular season. Shane Bieber starts against Rays righty Adrian Houser

Game #159 Boston Red Sox (87-71) v. Toronto Blue Jays (90-68)

 

Game #158 Boston Red Sox (87-71) @ Toronto Blue Jays (90-68) - game recap

 

Isiah Kiner-Falefa hit a solo home run in a 7-1 loss to the Red Sox

After an unfortunate loss due to an ice cold offence and an unfortunate game-changing foul ball call by 3rd base ump, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 19th series loss of the season. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander returned to the lineup for the first time since May 29th and served as DH. George Springer was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. IKF was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 19th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights: 

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Masataka Yoshida doubled scoring Trevor Story
• A batter later, Romy Gonzalez singled scoring Yoshida and Alex Bregman
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 5th as Yoshida belted a solo jack to right
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 10H 4R (all earned) 0BB 5K 86 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was ejected in the bottom of the 7th for arguing a called 3rd strike that replay showed caught the corner
• A batter later, hitting coach David Popkns joined him in the clubhousem also ejected for arguing balls and strikes
• The Red Sox added 3 runs in the top of the 8th as Carlos Narvaez hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Ceddanne Rafaela and Gonzalez
• Garrett Crochet pitching line: 8IP 3H 0R 0BB 6K 100 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right
• Final score: Red Sox 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 10 hits while walking none and striking out 5. Scherzer didn't make it out of the 1st inning and tonight was nearly a repeat with the Red Sox jumping on him early, plating 3 runs on 5 hits in the opening inning and pushing 30 pitches. He actually struck out the 1st batter he faced, but gave up 5 straight hits. The way the season is ending for him, don't be surprised if Scherzer joins fellow pitching legend Clayton Kershaw, who he pitched against for the final time August 8th with both future hall of famers turning back the clock on that day. A month ago, Scherzer looked like he had a playoff start locked up, but his recent starts have not been good. 
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 4 innings. Jose Berrios had mixed results in his first regular season relief appearance since September 29, 2017. He retired the side in order on an efficient 10 pitches in the 7th, but ran into trouble in the 8th, giving up a 3-run HR that put the game out of reach. You have to wonder if he starts Sunday if the divison title is still up for grabs. Brandon Little retired every batter he faced
• There has to be big concern about the ice cold offence, which can't do anything lately. A month ago, it appeared the offence could outhit the pitching flaws. Today, a 3-run deficit feels insurmountable. Vlad was 0-3 before getting ejected on a called strike that was closer to the strike zone than the previous pitch. Anthony Santander looked like he was still catching up to big league pitching after running out of minor league games with the minor league season now over. The bottom of the order actually got 3 of the 4 hits on the day
• The news was even worse on the scoreboard with the Yankees drawing even with the Blue Jays in the standings after an easy win over the White Sox. Boston is also only 3 back of the Blue Jays. If the Blue Jays don't pick things up soon, they will be facing a crapshoot wild card series on the road, which could be in Cleveland against a red hot Guardians squad.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and aoid being swept for the 5th time this season. Brayan Bello starts for the Red Sox. The Blue Jays haven't named their starter for tomorrow

Game #158 Boston Red Sox (86-71) v. Toronto Blue Jays (90-67)

Game #157 Boston Red Sox (86-71) @ Toronto Blue Jays (90-67) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes scored the Blue Jays only run in a 4-1 loss to the Red Sox

After a final off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays kicked off the final homestand and week of the regular season. They welcomed the Red Sox to town. The Blue Jays won 7 of the first 10 games in the season series outscoring the Red Sox 45-44. Anthony Santander was activated from the 60-day IL, Ty France was placed on the 10-day IL with an oblique strain and Alek Manoah was DFA'd. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejadro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Sunday's playoff-clinching victory in KC. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

-daGame Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Nathaniel Lowe singled scoring Masataka Yoshida
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom of the 4th on a fielder's choice hit by Andres Gimenez that scored Nathan Lukes 
• Lucas Giolito pitching line: 4.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 4BB 3K 98 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Red Sox retook the lead in the top of the 6th as Lowe singled th scoring Romy Gonzalez
• Two batters later, Carlos Narvaez doubled scoring Lowe and Wilyer Abreu
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 9H 4R (all earned) 1BB 7K 92 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Aroldis Chapman pitched a perfect 9th for his 32nd save of the season
• Final score: Red Six 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. Hr had a tough 6th inning, giving up the three runs that turned out to be the difference in the game, While he'll likely start one of the first couple ofd games in a wild card series, unless he turns into Don Larson and throws a perfect game, he won't be able to win if the Blue Jays offence is as anemic as it was tonight.
• The bullpen threw 3.1 scoreless innings, walking 2 and striking out 2. Louis Varland, Mason Fluharty and Tommy Nance retired every batter they faced
• As for the offence, one measley run on a fielder's choice. To be fair, the Blue Jays got another horrible break when a ball that was clearly hit fair by George Springer and would have scored a couple of runs was called foul and upheld on replay. At the same time, Springer should have fouled off the next pitch to stay alive. At this point, I start Anthony Santander tomorrow to see if he can contribute to a playoff roster.
• The Yankees won, whittling the Blue Jays lead in the AL East to just a single game (2 really since the tiebreaker belongs to the Blue Jays)
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and try to avoid their 19th series loss of the season. Max Scherzer start against Red Sox lefty Garrett Crochet

Game #157 Boston Red Sox (85-71) v. Toronto Blue Jays (90-66)

 

Game #156 Toronto Blue Jays (90-66) @ Kansas City Royals (78-78) - game recap

Andres Gimenez drove in a pair of runs and scored once in an 8-5 victory over the Royals to clinch a berth into the 2025 MLB postseason

 

After a heartbreaking 2-1 loss thanks to an anemic offence, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (George Springer served as DH today). Davis Schneider was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• A batter later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac bunt by Tyler Heineman
• A batter after that, George Springer doubled home Gimenez
• The Royals got a pair back in the bottom of the 4th as Carter Jensen singled scoring Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Heineman and Daulton Varsho
• A batter later, Asdison Barger doubled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Garcia singled scoring Yastrzemski
• A batter later, Salvador Perez singled scoring Pasquantino
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 5H 4R (all earned) 3BB 2K 76 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Michael Wacha pitching line: 5IP 8H 6R (all earned) 1BB 4K 89 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Randal Grichuk singled scoring Jac Caglianone
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Clement singled scoring Myles Straw
• A batter later, Gimenez tripled scoring Clement
• Jeff Hoffman threw a scoreless 9th for his 32nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Royals 5

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 2. It's incredile that he has managed to pitch at all four levels of baseball, starting in Vancouver way back in April and now making his second big league start today. The Royals did get to him in the 4th inning, but he had an out streak of 10 batters after walking tthe first batter of the day on 5 pitches. No doubt he'll get a solid chance in spring training to make the opening day roster, but getting a taste of the MLB this year will do wonders for his development. I don't see Yesavage on the playoff roster unless Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer are both unable to play due to injury.
• The bullpen gave up a runon 5 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 5 innings. Seranthonny Dominguez and Eric Lauer both retired every batter they faced. For Jeff Hoffman, despite giving up a hit, he looked to be in complete control of the game. The Blue Jays need him to round into form the last week if this squad is going deep in the postseason.
• The bottom of the lineup did the damage with Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez and Tyler Heineman combining to go 5-11 with 4 runs scored and 4RBI. Also nice to see Vlad contribute with a 2-run double.
• The Blue Jays were 5-13 with runners in scoring position
• With a playoff position clinched, the next task is locking up the AL East, which could come as early as Wednesday or take the whole week. The Blue Jays have the more difficult schedule remaining against the Red Sox, who are fighting for a wild card spot and will be running out their top 3 starters and best lineups. The Rays have had the Blue Jays number all season and would likely relish spoiling the Blue Jays week by denying them the division title. Meanwhile, the Yankees, who are also finishing the season at home, face the White Sox and Orioles. At the 2moment, the Yankees are 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays, but the Blue Jays have the tie breakeer so the division title would go to them if the two teams are tied at the end of the regular season. Surely the Blue Jays would like to clinch earlier in the week so they can start resting some of the players who may be banged up.
• Kudos to the Royals for the nice tribute to broadcaster Buck Martinez, who could retire at the end of the season due to health reasons. He has fought cancer off twice and he may want to enjoy the time he has left to travel and spend valuable time with his family.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays kick off the final homestand and week of the regular season as they welcome the Red Sox to town. The Blue Jays won 7 of the first 10 games of the season series, outscoring the Red Sox 45-44. Kevin Gausman starts Tuesday against Red Sox righty Lucas Giolito

Game #156 Toronto Blue Jays (89-66) @ Kansas City Royals (78-77)

 

Game #155 Toronto Blue Jays (89-66) @ Kansas City Royals (78-77) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a solo home run in a 2-1 loss to the Royals

-

After a shellacking thanks to some brutal pitching from Max Scherzer, who couldn't get out of the first inning, and position pitcher/backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who allowed half of the 20 runs against, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid, avoid their 16th series loss, 8th season series loss and clinch a postseason berth. Chris Bassitt was placed on the 15-day IL with a lower back strain and Mason Fluharty was recalled from AAA-ball. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in LF and George Springer was in RF. IKF was at the hot corner. Ernie Clement was at SS and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid, avoid their 16th series loss, 8th season series loss and clinch a postseason berth? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Bobby Witt Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• A batter later, Vinnie Pasquantino whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Daulton Varsho belted a solo jack to straightaway center
• Noah Cameron pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 98 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 87 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Carlos Estevez pitched a scoreless 9th for his 41st save of the season
• Final score: Royals 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6.1 innings,  giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino hit back to back jacks, which turned out to be the difference in the game. Bieber retired nine of the first tend batters he faced and is pitching his way to being the game 1 option of a playoff series. 
• The bullpen threw 1.2 scoreless innings. Kudos to Mason Fluharty for baring down and recording 2 outs after the bases were loaded thanks to the infield screwing up what should have been an inning-ending DP and Fluharty hitting a batter. Jeff Hoffman also managed to pitch a scoreless inning despite the fact every fan was likely screaming at their tv and holding their collective breaths since traditionally, Hoffman has not thrived in non-save situations (mind you he hasn't thrived in save situations lately either.)
• The offence is picking a horrible time to slump. One run won't cut it in the playoffs. That said it was nice to see Daulton Varsho go deep against a lefty since he is the better defender in CF. The Blue Jays will likely be sending out the lineup that'll give them the best chance to clinch  tomorrow and after that, you may start seeing guys like Vladdy get a full day off.
• The Blue Jays were 0-1 with runners in scoring position
• So the Blue Jays missed a golden opportunity to clinch tonight with the Tigers having lost before the first pitch was thrown in tonight's game. The Red Sox and Yankees both gained a game on the Blue Jays with the loss, putting the Yankees just 2 games baack of the Blue Jays (really 3 games since the Blue Jays have the tiebreaker having clinched the season series against the Yankees) and the Red Sox are 5 games back. The red hot Guardians could be in play for best AL record as they sit just one game back of the Tigers in the AL Central. It's crucial for the Blue Jays to get a bye to give some of their banged up players a few days to rest and also set up the playoff rotation.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time. Trey Yesavage starts against Royals righty Michael Wacha

Game #155 Toronto Blue Jays (89-65) @ Kansas City Royals (77-77)

 

Game #154 Toronto Blue Jays (89-65) @ Kansas City Royals (77-77) - game recap

George Springer hit a leadoff home run in a losing effort as the Royals came dob behind to rout the Blue Jays 20-1

After another loss thanks to the inept offence, the Blue Jays made their final road stop of the season against the Royals, who took the series in Toronto back on the BC Day long weekend, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-11. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's shutout loss. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and start the last road series and last weekend of summer with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer led off the game with a solo jack to left-center
• The Royals tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Bobby Witt Jr. singled scoring Carter Jensen
• A batter later, Vinny Pasquantino doubled scoring Witt Jr.
• A batter after that, Pete Walker was ejected for arguing balls and strikes
• A batter later, Salvador Perez whacked a 3-run blast to the opposite field in right-center
• Three batters later, Michael Massey smashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Adam Frazier
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 0.2IP 7H 7R (all earned) 1BB 2K 45 pitches (30 for strikes)
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Jensen doubled scoring Jac Caglianone and Massey
• Two batters later, Pasquantino singled home Jensen
• John Schneider was ejected from the game in the bottom of the 6th for arguing balls and strikes
• Michael Lorenzen pitching line: 7.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 113 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Luke Maile singled scoring Jonathan India
• Two batters later, Caglianone smacked a 3-run blast to right-center; also scoring Maile and Tyler Tolbert
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Maile doubled scoring India and Randal Grichuk
• A batter later, Frazier singled scoring Tolbert
• A batter after that, Caglianone singled scoring Maile
• A batter later, Massey singled scoring Frazier
• A batter later, John Rave singled home Caglianone.
• Final score: Royals 20 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Max Scherzer was lit up to the tune of 7 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. There has to be big concerns about the health of Scherzer, who coudn't even get out of the 1st inning tonight. His back has been bothering him for a while. At this point, I would shut him down with just one start left and let him rest. You have to wonder if he'll follow Clayton Kershaw into retirement with the way his season is ending.
• The bullpen was even worse, getting lit up for 13 runs on 20 hits while walking 4 and striking out 4 over 7.2 innings. To be fair, ten of the runs and 13 of the hits were off position player/backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who has an ungodly 32.40ERA this season. Brandon Little and IKF both retired every batter they faced.
• George Springer hit a leadoff home run and the offence took the rest of the night off. It is starting to get concerning that the bats have gone ice cold with the season winding down. Bo Bichette won't be able to get any rehab games in since the minor league season is now over. At least Anthony Santander was able to play some rehab games.
• The Blue Jays were 0-0 with runners in scoring position and that is not a typo. Not one baserunner reached second base.
• Standings wise, the Yankees and Tigers both lost, keeping the Yankees 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East and the Blue Jays 4 games ahead of the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 16th series loss and 8th season series loss of the season. Shane Bieber starts against Royals lefty Noah Cameron

Game #154 Toronto Blue Jays (89-64) @ Kansas City Royals (76-77)

 

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (89-64) @ Tampa Bay Rays (75-78) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a double in a 4-0 shutout loss to the Rays

After a heartbreaking loss that ended the opportunity for the 1st 100 win season, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 27th series win (1st series win against the Rays) and avoid their 8th season series loss of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (George Springer served as DH today). Davis Schneider was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 27th series win (1st series win against the Rays) and avoid their 8th season series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Chandler Simpson singled scoring Hunter Feduccia and Carson Williams
• A batter later Brandon Lowe singled scoring Bob Seymour 
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 3R (all earned) 2BB 3K 89 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Shane Baz pitching line: 5IP 2H 0R 1BB 4K 74 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Williams belted a solo jack to left
• Final score: Rays 4 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. While he will likely be in the playoff rotation, there has to be concern about his struggles in getting through innings efficiently. He was already at 50 pitches in the 2nd inning. He'll be facing better lineups in the playoffs that'll make him pay for bad pitches.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3 over the last 3.2 innings. Brayden Fisher retired every batter he faced.
• Not much to say about the offence who failed to get a runner into scoring position until the 8th inning and managed a measley 3 base runners against Rays starter Shane Baz.
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• The Red Sox are pretty much out of the race of 1st in the AL East - they are 6 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. The Yankees, who play later tonight, can get within 3 games of 1st in the AL East.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Kansas City for the final road series of the season. The Royals won the series in Toronto 6 weeks ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-11. Max Scherzer starts against Royals righty Michael Lorenzen

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (89-63) @ Tampa Bay Rays (74-78)

 

Game #152 Toronto Blue Jays (89-62) @ Tampa Bay Rays (73-78)

 

Game #151 Toronto Blue Jays (89-62) @ Tampa Bay Rays (73-78) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in a  pair of runs and scored once as the Blue Jays hung on to edge the Rays 

6-5

After yet another comeback win, the Blue Jays were trying to extend the win streak to 6 games. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw got the start in CF. 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 top of the 1st as Addison Barger singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 2nd as George Springer singled scoring Davis Schneider and Ernie Clement
• Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Ryan Pepiot pitching line: 1.2 IP 4H 4R (all earned) 3BB 3K 49 pitches (29 for strikes)
• The Rays got three back on a very controversial 3-run blast to right-center by Brandon Lowe that scored Chandler Simpson and Yandy Diaz. A fan clearly reached over the bleachers and took a catch away from Nathan Lukes. The explanation by the umpire that it would have been a home run anyway is ludicrous since Lukes looked like he was about to make a play he has made time and time again. As soon as a fan reaches over and touches the ball, the play should be dead and there is no way a home run should be awarded on the play.
• The Blue Jays appeared to get a make up call in the top of the 4th when Lukes was awarded a solo home run on a ball ht to a similar location. This time, the umpires overturned the original call
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of  the 5th as Joey Loperfido belted a solo jack to right - a no-doubter this time
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4IP 4H 3R (all earned) 2BB 0K 78pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Rays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Tristan Gray singled scoring Josh Lowe 
• The Rays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Brandon Lowe singled scoring Simpson
• Jeff Hoffman got the last 3 outs for his 31st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Rays 5

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 4 inningsm giving up 3 runs, albeit on a very controversial home run that should have been ruled fan intereference, on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out none. Controversial home run aside, Berrios is picking an awful time to slump. He has been very hittable lately and very inefficient. He was at 61 pitches with outs still to get in the 3rd inning. At this point, he looks like he will be the odd starter out of the playoff rotation and there may not even be a role for him in the bullpen either.
• Speaking of the bullpen, it gave up 2 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 8 over the last 5 innings. If there is any facet of the team that will lead to a quick exit, it will be the bullpen, which has been leaking runs at the wrong time of the year. There has to be big concerns about the health of closer Jeff Hoffman, whose velocity has dipped and he has been getting hit hard. He managed to save today's game, but not before giving up a walk and a hit to put the game-tying run in scoring position.
• Offensively, the bats came alive early with George Springer, Vlad and Addison Barger knocking in runs to put the Blue Jays up by 4. Nathan Lukes got a little vengeance in the 4th inning with a call overturned into a home run after being robbed of an obvious fan intereference call that was definitely not going to be a home run anyway and very likely would have been caught by Lukes. Joey Loperfido also went deep.
• What is the point of having instant replay if the umpires are going to make up some excuse to keep a home run call? It's shameful and quite frankly the umpires should be held accontable when they blow a call that could impact the outcome of a game. Don't even get me started on the strike and ball calls that the umpires frequently screw up. This is why by next year, games will be called by robo umps.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Standings wise, the Blue Jays are now three games better than the Tigers for the best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS. The Yankees remain 5 games back of the Blue Jays fot 1st in the AL East.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 7 games and notch their 27th series win of the season and 1st series win against the Rays this season. Kevin Gausman starts against Rays lefty Ian Seymour

Game #151 Toronto Blue Jays (88-62) @ Tampa Bay Rays (73-77)

 

-Game #150 Toronto Blue Jays (88-62) @ Tampa Bay Rays (73-77) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement scored both runs in a 2-1 comeback win in 11 innings over the Rays

After blowing out the Orioles yesterday, the Blue Jays commenced the final road trip of the regular season in Tampa Bay tonight. The Rays have won 5 of the first 6 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 39-17. Trey Yesavage, who has remarkably pitched at three different minor league levels, made his big league debut with Tyler Heineman behind the plate (Ryan Borucki was DFA'd). Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Yandy Diaz doubled scoring Chandler Simpson
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 9K 69 pitches (49 for strikes)
• Joe Boyle pitching line: 6IP 3H 0R 0BB 5K 78 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 8th on asac fly by Andres Gimenez that scored Ernie Clement 
• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 11th as George Springer singled scoring Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Rays 1 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage fired 5 solid innings in his big league debut, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 9. It's remarkable the season he is having, rocketing through 3 minor league tiers. It's common for pitches to be promoted a tier or two if they are having a good season, but to advance 4 tiers in one season is in rare territory, 20ish pitchers all time. Examples of players who have done the feat include Chris Sale (2010, White Sox), Brandon Finnegan (2014, Royals), Andrew Miller (2006, Tigers), and Ryan Wagner (2003, Reds). Yesavage set a franchise record for most strikeouts in a big league debut.
• The bullpen was solid in a playoff-like game, throwing 6 scoreless innings, conceding a hit and 2 walks while striking out 9. Brandon Little and Seranthony Dominguez retired every batter they faced. Braydon Fisher, who was credited with the win, was phenomeol, striking out 4, including 3 in the 11th with runners on the corners with none out. 
• Offensively, Ernie Clement scored twice with Andres Gimenez and George Springer driving him in
• The magical season continues as the Blue Jays notched their 47th comeback win of the season, leaving them just 3 wins shy of the franchise record of 50 comeback wins set by the 1987 squad.. It must be a good feeling for the pitchers knowing they don't have to be perfect, there is a good chance of a comeback as long as they keep the score close.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays gained a game against the Yankees, who were shutout by the Twins tonight, putting the Yankees a full 5 games back of 1st in the AL East and the Red Sox are a full 6 games back and are likely not winning the AL East division. The Blue Jays are also a full 3 games up on the Tigers for best AL record and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 6 games. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Rays righty Ryan Pepiot.
• 
  

Game #150 Toronto Blue Jays (87-62) @ Tampa Bay Rays (73-76)

 

Game #149 Baltimore Orioles (69-80) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-62) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in 3 runs and scored a run in an 11-2 comeback win over the Orioles

After a walk-off win yesterday thanks to a clutch sac fly off the bat of Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 11th series sweep and to notch their 19th series win of the season. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Joey Loperfido was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 11th series sweep and to notch their 19th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Coby Mayo hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom of the 3rd as George Springer doubled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Albert Suarez pitching line: 3IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 53 pitches (31 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Daulton Varsho
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Springer belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Joey Loperfido doubled scoring Clement
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 7th as Colton Cowser whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Blue jays added 3 runs in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger doubled scoring Springer, Nathan Lukes and Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• A batter later, Kirk singled scoring Barger
• Two batters later,  Clement singled scoring Tyler Heineman 
• A batter later,  Varsho scored on a fielder's choice hit by Loperfido 
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Orioles 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and  striking out 5. He retired 11 of the last 13 batters he faced and only really threw one pitch he'll want back (the one Coby Mayo crushed to deep center field. Bieber should be in the playoff rotation
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. The score allowed the Blue Jays to rest their high leverage relievers for a tougher series in Tampa Bay starting tomorrow
• Offensively, George Springer (2 RBI, 2 runs scored including solo HR), Addison Barger (3RBI, run scored), Alejandro Kirk (RBI, run scored) Ernie Clement (3RBI, run scored) and Joey Loperfido (2RBI) led the way
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Davis Schneider and  Vlad had at least one hit.
• The Blue Jays were 6-13 with runners in scoring position
• The comeback kids did it again! The Blue Jays completed their 46th comeback win of the season and are now just 4 comeback wins shy of the franchise record set by the juggernaut 1987 squad
• Standings wise, the Blue Jays will remain 2.5 games up on the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS, along with an all-important bye to the divisional round. For the moment, The Yankees are 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East and it is looking like the division title will be between the Blue Jays and Yankees with the Red Sox slipping to 6 games back of 1st in the AL East and picking a bad time to slump.
• Up next, the Blue Jays commence their final road trip of the season as they head south to take on the Rays in Tampa Bay. The Rays have taken 5 of the first 6 games in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 39-17. Number 2 prospect Trey Yesavage will make his big league debut. The Rays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #149 Baltimore Orioles (69-79) v. Toronto Blue Jays (86-62)

 

Game #148 Baltimore Orioles (69-78) v. Toronto Blue Jays (85-62)

 

Game #147 Baltimore Orioles (69-78) @ Toronto Blue Jays (85-62) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in a pair and scored once in a 6-1 comeback win over the Orioles

After a win yesterday thanks to a complete game gem, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they welcomed the Orioles, who won the first 6 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 73-48. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in CF and George Springer was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Jackson Holliday singled scored Samuel Basallo
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Davis Schneider. Orioles CF Colton Cowser was charged with a fielding error on the play
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 75 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Trevor Rogers pitching line: 5IP 3H (unearned) 4BB 6K 79 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Myles Straw doubled scoring IKF
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Ernie Clement singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Straw and Springer
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled home Varsho. Guerrero Jr, was thrown out at 2B on the play.
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Orioles 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5 innings, giving up a run on 2 hits, while walking 1 and striking out 6. Bassitt retired 5 of the first 6 batters he faced and the last 8 batters in a row. Unfortunately he couldn;t continue after the 5th inning due to his back tightening up on him. Bassit could be the odd man out of the playoff rotation.
• After a complete day off yesterday, the bullpen pitched 4 scoreless innings, giving up a hit, walking 3 and striking out 3. Brayden Fisher was credited with the win. Louis Varland and Brandon Little retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Daulton Varsho (2RBI, run scored), George Springer (2 runs scored) and Myles Straw (RBI, run scored) led the way.
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position
• The comeback kids did it again! The Blue Jays notched their 44th comeback win of the season. They have a chance of matching the franchise record, 50 comeback wins, set by the 1987 team. the 1992 and 1993 world series winning teams had 40 and 44 comeback wins respectively.
• Standings wise, the Red Sox dropped to 4.5 game back with their loss to the Yankees, who remain 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. The Blue Jays are also a game up on the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 27th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Orioles righty Tomoyuki Sugano

Game #147 Baltimore Orioles (69-77) v. Toronto Blue Jays (84-62)

 

Game #146 Houston Astros (79-68) @ Toronto Blue Jays (84-62) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw a complete game two-hitter in a 6-0 shutout win over the Astros

After a late-game comeback fell short, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 26th series win of the season. Alek Manoah was reinstated from the 60-day-IL and Orlevis Martinez, who missed a good chunk of the season after testing positive for taking a banned substance, was DFA'd. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Scheider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 26th series win of the season? Here is todays game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring George Springer
• Two batters later, Addison Barger doubled home Lukes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the botttom of the 2nd as Davis Schneider whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run by Davis that scored Daulton Varsho
• Cristian Javier pitching line: 6IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 6K 87 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a sac fly by Barger that scored Springer. Astros RF Jesus Sanchez was charged with a fielding error on the play.
• Two batters later, Varsho singled scoring Lukes
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 9IP 2H 0R 1BB 9K 100 pitches (79 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Astros 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman was masterful in pitching the first complete game of the season for the Blue Jays and 27th on the season in the MLB, giving up 2 hits, walking 1 and striking out 9 and he did it all in 100 pitches, throwing just 21 balls. Just a phenomenol performance and Gausman seems to be getting hot at the right time with the playoffs just around the corner. More importantly, he gave the bullpen a much needed day off when the next off-day isn't until September 22nd.
• If anyone is happy for a day off, it is Jeff Hoffman, who has been struggling at the wrong time.
• Offensively, Davis Schneider (2 RBI, including a solo HR), Nathan Lukes (2 runs scored, RBI), Addison Barger (2RBI), George Springer (2 runs scored) and Daulton Varsho (run scored, RBI) led the way 
• The Blue Jays were 2-8 with runners in scoring position
• The Yankees won their game to remain 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL Eastm while the idle Blue Jays fell to 3.5 games back of first in the AL East
• Up next, the Blue Jays finish off the season series with the Orioles, who won 6 of the first 10 games in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 73-48. Chris Bassitt starts against Orioles lefty Trevor Rogers

Game #146 Houston Astros (79-67) v. Toronto Blue Jays (83-62)

 

Game #145 Houston Astros (79-67) @ Toronto Blue Jays (83-62) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in a run in a 3-2 loss to the Astros

After another late game come back, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 26th 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 yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and notch their 26th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Yainer Diaz doubled scoring Jesus Sanchez
• The Astros added a run in the top of the 6th as Carlos Correa whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen. It was the 200th career HR for Correa
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 81 pitches (51 for strikes)
• Jason Alexander pitching line: 7IP 3H 0R 1BB 3K 89 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Andres Gimenez singled scoring IKF
• Two batters later, Nathan Lukes singled scoring Myles Straw
• The Astros retook the lead in the top of the 9th as Diaz belted a solo jack to left-center
• Bryan Abreu pitched a perfect 9th for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Astros 3 Blue Jaays 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios rebounded and fired 5.1 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Berrios could be the odd man out of the playoff rotation. Certainly the next few starts for all will deterimine, assuming Max Scherzer's health holds up, who is in the 4-man rotation and who will join Eric Lauer in the bullpen
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. There has to be concern about Jeff Hoffman, who took the loss after giving up a home run right after the Blue Jays clawed back from a 2-run deficit. So many fans want Hoffman not to be the closer come playoff time and for good reason. His ERA is over 4.50 (which would be last among the teams likely making the playoffs, he has blown 7 saves (second in the MLB), and he is  tied for being the reliever to give up the most home runs. At this point, I would use him in the 9th at home of a tied game. It's going to be hard to come back against some of the game's elite closers, which the Blue Jays would be facing in the playoffs.
• Offensively, the team didn't do much through 7 innings, managing just 3 hits and a walk off the Astros starter Jason Alexander. It was good to see them put together a 2-run rally in the 8th thanks to RBI singles off the bats of Andres Gimenez and Nathan Lukes. However, the soon-to-be highest paid Blue Jay Vlad grounded out to kill the rally. The scrutiny on the Blue Jays star, especially when he fails to deliver in these important game situations, will only get stronger when his half a billion deal kicks in next year, and if his best buddy Bo Bichette leaves in free agency.
• Standings wise, the Blue Jays squandered a chance to gain a game on the Yankees and Red Sox, who both have easier schedules the rest of the way. With the flaws in the bullpen, the Blue Jays will want to avoid a best-of-3 wild card series, a format that has not been kind to the Blue Jays, who have not won a single game since that format came into play back in 2022.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 26th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Astros righty Javier Cristian.

Game #145 Houston Astros (78-67) v. Toronto Blue Jays (83-61)

 

Game #144 Houston Astros (78-66) v. Toronto Blue Jays (82-61)

 

Game #143 Toronto Blue Jays (82-61) @ New York Yankees (80-63) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero Jr briefly tied the game at 3-3 as the Yankees held on to edge the Blue Jays 4-3

 

After dropping yesterday's rain-delayed matinee due to an inept offence, the Blue Jay were looking to notch their 26th series win of the season. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the Half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Bo Bichette was completely out of the lineup after whacking his shin against the shin pads of Yankees catcher Austin Wells (Ernie Clement took his spot at SS). Myles Straw was in CF and George Springer was in RF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 26th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Ben Rice drilled a 3-run blast to right-center; also scoring Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 2nd as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Alejandro Kirk
• A batter later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac fly by Nathan Lukes
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring George Springer
•  The Yankees retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Bellinger doubled scoring Judge
•  Max Scherzer pitching line: 4.1IP 3H 4R (all earned) 4BB 8K 93 pitches (51 for strikes)
• Max Fried pitching line: 7IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 100 pitches (64 for strikes)
• David Bednar pitched a scoreless 9th for his 22nd save of the season
• Final score Yankees 4 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 4 runs on 3 hits while walking 4 and striking out 8. While his command was off, it was encouraging to see him throw over 90 pitches after leaving his last start with back tightness. Scherzer will almost certainly get a playoff start. 
• The bullpen threw 3.2 scoreless innings, walking 1 and striking out 5. Ryan Borucki and Brayden Fisher combined for 2.2 perfect innings and 5 strikeouts. 
• Offensively, the Blue Jays did well to tie the game at 3, but they were not able to push across a 4th run. IKF, Nathan Lukes and Vlad drove in the runs. 
• With the win, the Yankees drew within 2 games of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East and a likely bye to the divisional round. The Red Sox could get as close as 3.5 games back if they won their game this afternoon against the Diamondback (the game was tied at 4 at the release of this recap.)
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow,  the Astros, who swept the Blue Jays in Houston back in April, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-2 come to town. Ace Jose Berrios starts for the Blue Jays.  The Astros haven't announced their rotation for the series yet.

Game #143 Toronto Blue Jays (82-60) @ New York Yankees (79-63)

 

Game #142 Toronto Blue Jays (82-60) @ New York Yankees (79-63) - game recap

 

Brandon Lttle retired all four batters he faced in a 3-1 rain-delayed loss to the Yankees

After a huge win thanks to an 8-inning effort from Kevin Gausman and great efforts off the bats of Bo Bichette and Vlad, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 26th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. IKF got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 26th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jasson Dominguez singled scoring Cody Bellinger
• Two batters later, Jazz Chisholm Jr. scored on a sac fly by Austin Wells
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th on a ground out hit by Isiah Kiner-Falefa that scored Bo Bichette 
• Chris Bassirt pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both unearned) 3BB 3K 80 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Yankees added a run in thew bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Wells that scored Dominguez
• Luis Gil pitching line: 6IP 3H 1R (earned) 4BB 1K 90 pitches (56 for strikes)
• David Bednar got the last 4 outs for his 21st save of the season 
• Final score: Yankees 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5 innings, giving up a pair of unearned runs on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. Both teams opted to end the starter's nights after the hour-long rain delay after the top of the 6th. He was working his way in and out of jams most of the dsy whuch drove up his pitch count. Bassitt could be the odd man out in the rotation, provided the other four starters (Max Scherzer, Jose Berrios, Shane Bieber and Kevin Gausman) are all healthy and pitching well.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking 5 over the last three innings. Brandon Little had an enouraging appearance, retiring every batter he faced, including 3 strikeouts. Here's  hoping they can pull together in September because a struggling bullpen could lead to a quick exit in the playoffs.
• IKF drove in the only Blue Jays run on a productive ground out. The offence has definitely cooled off in the last month.
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring posittion
• Standings wise, the Yankees are back to 3 games back of the Blue Jays, whereas the Red Sox, who were losing their game when this post was released, could fall to 4.5 games back or gain a half game on a comeback win to 3.5 games back of 1st in the AL East.
• Up next, the rubber match where the Blue Jays will be looking to notch their 26th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Yankees lefty Max Fried

Game #142 Toronto Blue Jays (82-59) @ New York Yankees (78-63)

 

Game #141 Toronto Blue Jays (82-59) @ New York Yankees (78-63) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in 2 RBI and scored once in a 7-1 victory over the Yankees

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a crucial three game series against the Yankees in the Bronx. The Yankees, along with the Red Sox, are nipping at the Blue Jays heels in the AL East standings. The Blue Jays have already secured the season series and have won 7 of the first 10 games of the season series, outscoring the Yankees 51-59. Brayden Fisher was recalled from AAA-ball and Dillon Tate was optioned to AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after serving as DH Wednesday (George Springer served as DH tonight). Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Bo Bichette doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Three batters later, Nathan Lukes singled scoring Bichette and Daulton Varsho
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as on a sac fly by Bichette that scored George Springer
• Cam Schlittler pitching line: 1.2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 66 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Giancarlo Stanton bashed a solo jack to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Alejandro Kirk. Clement was thr= out at 3rd base on the play
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Varsho doubled scoring Guerrero Jr 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 105 pitches (68 for strikes)
• Final score Blue Jays 7 Yankees 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 8 excellent innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. The Blue Jays letting him pitch the 8th says a lot about the trust in the bullpen and perhaps wanting to give all the key relievers an extra day of rest. Gausman made one mistake in the 2nd inning to Giancarlo Stanton, who took him deep. He retired 18 of the first 20 batters he faced and really only start to get hit once Yankees hitters were on their 3rd AB against him. A great start that will be needed in the playoffs
• Brayden Fisher got the 9th and walked a batter. Surely he'll get some opportunities in higher leverage situations
• The veterans prevailed offensively today with Bo Bichette (2 RBI, a run scored), Vlad (3 runs scored, including a solo HR), Daulton Varsho (RBI, run scored) and Nathan Lukes (2 RBI) leading the way. Bichette is going to cash in big in free agency
• With the win, the Blue Jays are now 4 games on the Yankees and Bosox, who are losing to the Diamondbacks and could drop back to 4.5 games back and 3rd in the AL East. The Tigers lost so the Blue Jays are a game up on them for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS
• The Blue Jays were 5-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 26th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Yankees righty Luis Gil