-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.
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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

Game #141 Toronto Blue Jays (81-59) @ New York Yankees (78-62)

 

Game #140 Toronto Blue Jays (81-59) @ Cincinatti Reds (70-70) - game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in 4 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 13-9 comeback win over the Reds

After hanging on for the win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 25th series win and 17th season series win of the season. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. George Springer was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was back at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 25th series win and 17th season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Reds opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jose Trevino singled scoring Gavin Lux and Spencer Steer
• A batter later, Matt McLain singled scoring Ke'Bryan Hayes
• Two batters later, Noelvi Marte doubled scoring Trevino and McLaiin
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Daulton Varsho smacked a solo blast to right-center
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk drilled a solo jack to straightaway center
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Addison Barger belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Springer
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. smacked a solo blast to left-center
• Zack Littell pitching line: 4.1IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 6K 88 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th on a sac fly by Barger that scored Ty France
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th on a sac fly by France that scored Varsho
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 5H 5R (all earned) 2BB 6K 98 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Reds got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Marte singled scoring McLain
• The Blue Jays added a run in the op of the 8th as Barger singled scoring Ernie Clement
• Two batters later, Springer scored on a throwing error by Steer on a ball hiy by Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Myles Straw scored on a sac fly by Varsho
• A batter after that, France singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Reds got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Steer doubled scoring Lux
• Two batters later, Will Benson doubled home Steer
• A batter later, McLain doubled scoring Benson
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Reds 9

My Take:

• Shane Bieber battled through 6 innings, giving up 5 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. He was roughed up in the 2nd inning to the tune of 5 runs on 5 hits and a walk. He settled right down and retired 12 of the last 13 batters he faced, including 10 straight batters. Bieber faced the minimum those 4 innings. This is why John Schneider needs to trust his starters to work out of jams and pitch deeper in games.
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Louis Varland continues to try and find his game. Tonight, he allowed 3 runs on 4 hits. Brandon Little struck out the only batter he faced, which is encouraging but need to see more of that. Jeff Hoffman retired every batter he faced, but next series will be a stiffer test.
• Offensively, the bats came up big, led by George Springer (3 runs scored, including a solo HR), Vlad (2RBI, 2 runs scored, including a solo HR), Addison Barger (4 RBI, including 2-run HR), Daulton Varsho (2RBI, 2 runs scored, including a solo HR), Alejandro Kirk (RBI, run scored), and Ty France (2RBI, run scored)
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Bichette had a hit. All but Bichette and Ernie Clement either drove in a run or scored a run
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Standings wise, the Red Sox and Yankees both lost, meaning both AL East rivals are 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. If the Yankees win their game tomorrow, they will be 3 games back of the Blue Jays heading into the weekend series between the Blue Jays and Yankees. If that happens, the Yankees could draw even with a series sweep on the weekend. The Blue Jays would win the division if the two teams are tied at the end of the regular season since the Blue Jays have clinched the season series against the Yankees.
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Yankees and Blue Jays open a crucial weekend series in the Bronx. The Blue Jays won 7 of the first 10 games in the season series, outscoring the Yankees 59-51. Kevin Gausman starts for the Blue Jays Friday. The Yankees haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #140 Toronto Blue Jays (80-59) @ Cincinnati Reds (70-69)

 

Game #139 Toronto Blue Jays (79-59) @ Cincinnati Reds (70-68)

 

Game #138 Toronto Blue Jays (79-59) @ Cincinatti Reds (70-68) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run home run in a losing effort as the Reds came from behind to walk off the Blue Jays 5-4

After salvaging a game to avoid a sweep yesterday thanks to an 8-run output from the offence and the bullpen holding it together, the Blue Jays kicked off a week long road trip with a labour day matinee in Cincinatti. The Reds won the season series last year with both teams scoring 20 runs. Isiah Kiner-Falefah, claimed off waivers yesterday is the September position player call-up. Dillon Tate is the 14th pitcher. Nick Sandlin was moved to the 60-day IL to make room on the roster for him. Chris Bassitt got the start wuth Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was back in the lineup and in CF after missing a couple of days with a sore hand after getting drilled by a fastball. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Reds opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ke'Bryan Hayes doubled scoring Gavin Lux and Sal Stewart 
• The Blue Keys got one back in the top of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Bo Bichette
• Hunter Greene pitching line: 6.1IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K 101 pitches (77 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 6K 107 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 9th as Bichette whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Myles Straw 
• A batter later, Daulton Varsho belted a solo jack to right
• The Reds got one back on a ground rule double by TJ Friedl that scored Hayes
• A batter later, Noelvi singled scoring Matt McLain and  Friedl
• Final score: Reds 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 6 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. Pretty gutsy of him to go out for the 6th and 7th innings when he either had a blister or cut on his finger. It also says a lot about the trust John Schneider and Co have on the bullpen. After giving up the 2-run double in the 2nd inning, Bassitt beared down and retired seven straight Reds hitters.
• Too bad the bullpen couldn't come through. Tommy Nance got that big high-leverage situation he deserved and promptly gave up hits to two of the batters he faced. Brandon Little was then given the opportunity to redeem himself, but could not retire either batter he faced and got fortunate it wasn't a tie ball game after the first batter when the call was overturned to a ground-rule double. This has to be the end of Little, whose confidence is shattered beyond repair. If the bullpen doesn't sort itself out soon, the Blue Jays could miss the playoffs entirely with the tough September schedule they face and that should lead to the firing of both John Schneider and Pete Walker.
• The bats came through in the 9th, led by Bo Bichette, who is about to receive a massive payday in the off-season, who went deep to the opposite field in right-center to give the Blue Jays their first lead of the game. He would also score the teams 1st run of the game in the 7th inning. Daulton Varsho also went deep despite a sore hand to give the Blue Jays a 2-run cushion. The Blue Jays need Addison Barger's bat to heat up again, and some production from the bottom of the lineup, which was a combined 0-11 on the day.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• The Bosox won their labour day matinee, bringing them within 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays  for 1st in the AL East. The idle Yankees also gained a half game in the standings and are also 2.5 games back of 1st in the AL East
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 17th series loss and 6th season series loss. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Reds lefty Nick Lodolo

Game #138 Toronto Blue Jays (79-58) @ Cincinnati Reds (69-68)

 

Game #137 Milwaukee Brewers (85-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (79-58) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes scored twice and drove in a run in an 8-4 comeback win over the Brewers

After the bullpen, this time Jeff Hoffman blew another game,  the Blue Jays were looking to snap the two game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time and being swept for the 2nd time in a season series. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was claimed off waivers from Pittsburgh. Yimi Garcia was transferred to the 60 day IL. Max Scherzer 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). Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the two game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time and being swept for the 2nd time in a season series? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Brewers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as William Contreras smacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Jackson Chourio
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Ernie Clement singled home Lukes
• The Blue jays added a run in the  bottom of the 2nd as Springer doubled scoring Myles Straw 
• The Brewers got one back in the top of the 3rd as Brice Turang smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Three batters later, Contreras singled scoring Chourio
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Guerrero Jr.  singled scoring Springer
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 4IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 1K 67 pitches (45 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Tyler Heineman doubled scoring Clement
• A batter later, Straw singled scoring Andre Gimenez and Heineman 
• Brandon Woodruff pitching line: 4.1IP 10H 8R (5 earned) 2BB 3K 89 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Final score Blue Jays 8 Brewers 4

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 4 innings, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits while walking none and strikng out 1. The Brewers took him deep twice, moving the Blue Jays starters into 1st place for home runs allowed. Overall, Blue Jays pitchers are 3rd behind the Rockies and A's for home runs allowed. Could there be cause for concern that Scherzer was lifted after throwing 67 pitches or perhaps John Schneider and Co. wanted to limit the damage knowing how bad the bullpen has been lately.
• Speaking of the bullpen, aside from Brandon Litlle, who looks like his confidence is shattered, it held things together, pitching 5 scoreless innings, allowing 3 hits, walking none and striking out 5. Back to Little, who loaded the bases on a hit, and 2 errors commited by him (a fielding error on a fairly routine ground ball that should have resulted in at least one out and then he fielded a ball cleanly, but got indecisive of where to record the out and ended up throwing the ball in the dirt at Vladdy. Right away, Tyler Heineman was telling him to throw to 1st base for the sure out. By the time Little realized that 1st was his only option, after considering throwing to get the runner at 3rd base and 2nd base, he had to rush the throw). He did record on out and he threw underhand to get that out, and needed Tommy Nance to bail him out. Nance should start seeing some higher leverage situations since he has been the team's best pitcher by far. Louis Varland bounced back with what might have been his best appearance as a Blue Jays, retiring all five batters he faced and striking out 3.
• Offensively, the bottom five in the order (Nathan Lukes, Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez, Tyler Heineman and Myles Straw) did the damage, combining to go 8-20 with 5 runs scored and 6 RBI. Leadoff man George Springer also scored twice and drove in a run. 
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Bo Bichette had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 5-10 with runners in scoring position
• It was mixed results in the standings with the Yankees losing and the Red Sox winning. The Yankees are 3 games back of the Blue Jays and the Red Sox are 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East.
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road starting with a matinee in Cincinatti tomorrow. The Reds won the season series last year with both teams scoring 20 runs. Chris Bassitt starts against Reds righty Hunter Greene.

Game #137 Milwaukee Brewers (85-52) v. Toronto Blue Jays (78-58)

 

Game #136 Milwaukee Brewers (85-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (78-58) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in the only Blue Jays run on a sac fly in a-4-1 come-from-behind loss to the Brewers

After a brutal loss due to the bullpen blowing up and an anemic offence, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid their 15th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. Justin Bruihl was optioned to AAA-ball and Easton Lucas was recalled from AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. George Springer was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Addison Barger got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays avoid their 15th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr that scored George Springer
• The Brewers tied it up in the top of the 7th on a ground out by Sal Frelick that scored Christian Yelich
• Quinn Priester pitching line: 5H 1R (unearned) 0BB 82 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 8K 95 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Brewers took the lead in the top of the 9th as Jackson Chourio whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right and into the Brewers bullpen
• A batter later, Yelich smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left-center
• Four batters later, Isaac Collins doubled scoring Frelich
• Abner Uribe pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Brewers 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 7 strong innings,  giving up a run on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 8. The Blue Jays needed this effort from Gausman to give an overworked bullpen a break. He retired 9 of the first 11 batters, with the 9th out being a pickoff at 1st base. Gausman also retired 9 of the last 10 batters he faced. 
• The bullpen imploded again. This time Jeff Hoffman came in with a 1-1 tie in the 9th, looking to hold the score to give the Blue Jays a chance to walk it off in the bottom half of the inning. Instead, he gave up 3 runs on 3 hits (two of which were back-to-back home runs to start the 9th) and a walk. It's clear his confidence is not great. Trouble is, the Blue Jays don't have anyone pitching well enough to take over the closer's role. Seranthony Dominguez has wildness issues and gave up 2 hits. Louis Varland and Brandon Little have been terrible lately and Yariel Rodriguez can't be trusted either. If the Blue Jays miss the playoffs entirely, Pete Walker needs to go.
• Offensively, Vlad drove in the only run on a sac fly. It's hard to win scoring only one run. The bats definitely cooled off with the all-star break.
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• The Yankees could close the gap to just 2 games if they win as expected tonight. The Red Sox lost so the Blue Jays remain 3.5 games ahead of them.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2 game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time and 2nd season series sweep. Max Scherzer starts against Brewers righty Brandon Woodruff

Game #136 Milwaukee Brewers (84-52) v. Toronto Blue Jays (78-57)

 

Game #135 Milwaukee Brewers (84-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (78-57) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider drove in a pair of runs in a 7-2 loss to the Brewers

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip as they welcomed the Milwaukee Brewers to town. The Brewers took the season series last year and both teams scored 8 runs. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Wednesday's wild comeback win. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Brewers opened the scoring in the top of the 6th as Andruw Monasterio whacked a solo blast to left
• Three batters later, Andrew Vaughn singled scoring Brice Turang
• Two batters later,  Caleb Durbin singled scoring Christian Yelich
• A batter later, Isaac Collins doubled home Vaughn and Durbin 
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 92 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Brewers added a run in in the top of the 7th on a ground out by Yelich that scored Turang
• A batter later, Vaughn singled scoring William Contreras
• Freddy Peralta pitching line: 6IP 1H 0R 1BB  8K 95 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom held of the inning as Davis Schneider singled scoring Bo Bichette and Myles Straw 
• Final score: Brewers 7 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber threw  5.1 solid innings, allowing a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 6. He struck out the side in the 1st inning and had an out streak of 9 batters.  There is just one pitch he'll want back (the one he threw to  Andruw Monasterio that left the ballpark). Unfortunately, the bullpen couldn't get out of the inning/
• A large part of the blame for this loss goes to a bullpen that has been brutal lately. Brandon Little  and Louis Varland combined to allow 4 runs in the 6th inning after Shane Bieber left the game with one out in that inning. Little has been walking too many batters. As a reliever, you have to come in throwing strikes, Varland managed to escape the inning, but not before giving up a pair of base hits that plated 3 more runs. A lot of fans want to see Varland in the closer's role, but he's been as shaky as Jeff Hoffman lately. Justin Bruihl gave up 2 more runs in the 7th inning to put the game out of reach. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• The offense was stymied for most of the game, and looked like they might rally in the 8th, but only managed to score twice on a clutch Davis Schneider single off a lefty reliever. Bo Bichette was the only Blue Jays batter to reach base multiple times
• Fans and Daulton Varsho were breathing a sigh of relief that x-rays on Daulton Varsho's hand  were negative, after the Blue Jays outfielder was drilled on the right hand/pinky finger by a fastball in the 7th inning. He was in a ton of pain and obviously frustrated after missing the first month of the season recovering from off-season shoulder surgery then missing more time after pulling his hamstring running the bases a month later. He'll likely miss a few days at least here, but it could have been much worse.
• The Blue Jays got bad news on Yimi Garcia, who will undergo season-ending surgery on his pitching elbow to clean some things up. The Blue Jays could have used him in the bullpen, but it was best to get the surgery done now so he's at full strength come spring training.
• It was a mixed bag standings wise. The Red Sox lost their game, but the Yankees prevailed in their game and both teams are 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. The Blue Jays have a tougher schedule.
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to avoid their 15th series loss and 4th season series loss. Kevin Gausman starts against Brewers righty Quinn Priester.

Game #135 Milwaukee Brewers (83-52) v. Toronto Blue Jays (78-56)

 

-Game #134 Minnesota Twins (60-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (78-56) - game recap

 

Addison Barger hit a clutch RBI double to lift the  Blue Jays to a 9-8 comeback win over the Twins

After dropping yesterday's game due to the bullpen (especially Jeff Hoffman) imploding, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing the last 2 games (George Springer served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and  Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays notch their 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Byron Buxton led off the game by hammering a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 2nd as Davis Schneider drilled a solo blast to the second deck in left
• The Twins retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Buxton whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Three batters later, Luke Keaschall belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette singled scoring Andres Gimenez and George Springer
• The Twins added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Edouard Julien doubled scoring Austin Martin and Julien. Technically it was an inside the park home run, but Julien was credited with a double and Tyler Heineman was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later, Ryan Jeffers singled home Buxton. Jeffers was thrown out at 2nd base to end the inning
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Schneider hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Three batters later, Gimenez belted a solo jack to right-center
• Simeon Woods-Richardson pitching line: 3.2IP 5H 5R (all earned) 2BB 2K 69 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Twins added a run as Brooks Lee smashed a solo blast to left
• Two batters later, Royce Lewis singled scoring Kody Clemens
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4.2IP 10H 8R (6 earned) 0BB 4K 98 pitches (68 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Gimenez doubled scoring Davis
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Ty France belted a solo jack to left-center
• Three batters later, Addison Barger doubled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Springer
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a scoreless 9th for his 29th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Twins 8

My Take:

• Eric Lauer was lit up for 8 runs on 10 hits while walking none and sriking out 4 over 4.2 innings. He may be tiring since he's already doubled the number of innings he threw in 2023. He added 4 more HR to the total given up by Blue Jays pitchers (only the A's have allowed more long balls this season). It is a concerning trend that needs to be addressed in the off-season, if not sooner. Lauer might be better suited to a bullpen role come playoff time. Two of Berrios, Gausman, Bassitt, Bieber, Lauer and Scherzer will not be in the playoff rotation. 
• The bullpen gave up 2 hits, walked 2 batters and struck out 6 over the last innings. I don't know what was more gutsy: John Schneider's decision to go right back to Jeff Hoffman after Hoffman imploded last night or Hoffman having a mostly dominant inning, including a huge strikeout of Matt Walllner, who hit a 3-run HR off the Blue Jays closer last night. There has been much angst over Hoffman in the closer's role, particularly his dreadful ERA, which is by far the worst of the likely playoff contender's closer, but tonight he showed why he should be the Blue Jays closer. Here's hoping tonight's  performance is the start of a hot streak for him.
• The bats were not going to let the Blue Jays lose tonight. Davis Schneider belted a pair of HR, Ty France came off the bench and went deep for the first time as a Blue Jay, Addison Barger erased a bad day at the plate with a go-ahead 2-run double and Bo Bichette knotted the game at 3 with a clutch 3-run single. If the Blue Jays do win a playoff round or two, it will be thanks to a lineup that can hurt you in most parts of the batting order and the ability to get clutch hits at the right time
• The team will be breathing a sigh of relief they came back and won because if the Twins won, the Bosox would have been just 3 games back and the Yankees would have been 3.5 games back. Instead the Red Sox and Yankees remain 4 and 4.5 games back respectively. Both the Yankees and Red Sox can gain a half game if they win their respective games tomorrow with the Blue Jays idle until Friday
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays will be looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they open a tough weekend series against the Brewers, who took the season series last year. Both teams scored 8 runs. Shane Bieber makes his home debut for the Blue Jays Friday. The Brewers haven't set their rotation for the seres yet.

Game #134 Minnesota Twins (60-72) v. Toronto Blue Jays (77-56)

 

Game #133 Minnesota Twins (60-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (77-56) - game recap

 

George Springer scored 4 times, including a pair of home runs in a losing effort as the Twins came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-5

After a solid win over the Twins lsst night thanks to a team effort offensively, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. 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 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a sack fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored George Springer
• Three batters later, Bo Bichette singled scoring Nathan Lukes 
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Springer hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Springer hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center
• The Twins got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Luke Keaschell whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Brooks Lee
• Bailey Ober pitching line: 5IP 10H 4R (all earned) 0BB 3K 96 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 3BB 6K 93 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Twins got one back in the top of the 7th on a sac fly double play hit by Lee  that scored Mickey Gasper 
• The Twins tied it in the top of the 9th as Gasper belted a solo jack to right
• Five batters later, Matt Wallner whacked a 3-run blast to right-center and into the Twins bullpen; also scoring Austin Martin and Lee
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Springer
• Final score: Twins 7 Blue Jays 5

My Take:-

• Chris Bassit threw 5.2 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6. After allowing the first two he faced to reach base, Bassitt recovered to strike out the side and retire nine straight. There is really only one pitch he'll want back and that's the one that went over the wall to cut the lead in half
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 3.1 innings. Jeff Hoffman was a disaster in the 9th, blowing his 7th save of the season. Blue Jays fans booed him off the field when he was pulled after giving up 2 home runs and 4 runs on 25 pitches. He threw more balls than strikes. I don't trust anyone else to be the closer, but maybe Hoffman needs a short IL stint to reset for the postseason.
• George Springer was the Blue Jays offense tonight, scoring 4 times, including 2 mammoth home runs.
• There has to be concern about the sore hands of Ernie Clement and Alejandro Kirk, who took a foul tip off the exposed hand. Danny Jansen broke his hand a few times getting dinged by foul balls. The Blue Jays can ill afford to lose either Kirk or Clement.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• With the loss, the Yankees and Red Sox both gained a game on the Blue Jays since they won their games. The Bosox are 4 games back and the Yankees are 4.5 games back of 1st in the AL East
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts for the Blue Jays. The Twins haven't named a starter yet.

Game #133 Minnesota Twins (59-72) v. Toronto Blue Jays (77-55)

 

Game #132 Minnesota Twins (59-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (77-55) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes scored twice and drove in two runs in a 10-4 win over the Twins

After dropping yesterday's game against the Marlins due to a tough start from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays began a weeklong homestand as they welcomed the Twins to town. The Blue Jays took the series in Minnesota back at the beginning of June with both teams scoring 14 runs. Righty Paxson Schultz was optioned to AAA-ball and lefty Justin Bruihl was recalled from AAA-ball. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad made his return to the lineup as DH as he slowly returns from a sore hamstring. George Springer was in LF. Could the Blue Jays start the week and homestand with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Bo Bichette singled scoring George Springer
•  A batter later, Nathan Lukes scored on a sac fly by Daulton Varsho
• A batter after that,  Alejandro Kirk whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Bichette
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Andres Gimenez belted a solo jack to right-center 
• The Twins got one back in the top of the 4th as Matt Wallner hammered a solo bomb to right-center 
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Springe singled scoring Gimenez
•  The Twins got one back in the top of the 6th on a ground out hit by Brooks Lee that scored Byron Buxton
• A batter later, Wallner smacked a 2-run blast to right and into the Twins bullpen; also scoring Trevor Larnach
• Joe Ryan pitching line: 5IP 7H 6R (all earned) 1BB 7K 93 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Lukes doubled scoring Kirk and Ernie clement
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Gimenez and Lukes
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 6IP 4H 4R  (all earned) 1BB 5K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 10  Twins 4

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. He retired 12 of the 1st 14 batters he faced. The left-handed batters were having better swings on Scherzer today. One issue that has hampered the pitching staff has been home runs. Twins RF Matt Wallner took him deep twice. 
• The bullpen gave up a hit and 2 walks over 3 scoreless innings. Justin Bruihl gave the Blue Jays a bit of a scare when he rolled his ankle on a pitch in the 8th. Luckily he was able to complete the inning. Hopefully it doesn't swell up on him overnight because the Blue Jays can ill afford to lose a reliever with Yimi Garcia and Nick Sandolin both suffering setbacks as they try to ramp back up. Garcia may be done for the season with the ulnar nerve issue. Sandlin is also a concern since his elbow is hurting throwing at 120 feet.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays jumped on Twins starter Joe Ryan, scoring 5 times over the first 2 innings. I really like that the bats reponded in the 6th inning with 4 runs after the Twins clawed back with 3 runs in the top half of the inning. Nathan Lukes (2 runs scored, 2 RBI), Alejandro Kirk (2 runs scored, including a 2-run HR) and Andres Gimenez (3 runs scored, including a solo HR) led the way.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Ty France reached base at least once and all but France and Daulton Varsho had at least one hit
• Standings wise, the Blue Jays remain 5 and 5.5 games up on the Red Sox and Yankees, who both won their games tonight, respectively. They gain a half game on the idle Astros for the 2nd bye to the divisional round. Should the Tigers lose, they'll be just a game back for the best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 23rd series win and 17th season series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Twins righty Bailey Ober.

Game #132 Minnesota Twins (59-71) v. Toronto Blue Jays (76-55)

 

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

 

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

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

Game Highlights:

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

My Take: 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

Game Highlights:

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

My Take:

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

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