World Series #6 Los Angeles Dodgers (2-3) v. Toronto Blue Jays (3-2)

World Series game 5 - Toronto Blue Jays (3-2) @ LA Dodgers (2-3) - game recap.

 

Trey Yesavage threw 7 superb innings in a 6-1 victory over the Dodgers

After a huge win yesterday thanks to some great pitching and timely hitting, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win to put them on the verge of their 3rd world series title. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start in LF with southpaw Blake Snell toeing the rubber for the Dodgers. The rest of the lineup was the same with George Springer remaining out with an oblique strain. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and put themselves on the verge of their 3rd world series title? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Davis Schneider led off the game with a solo blast to left
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a solo blast to left and into the Dodgers bullpen
• The Dodgers got one back in the bottom of the 3rd as Enrique Hernandez smacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Ernie Clement that scored Daulton Varsho
• The Blue jays added a run on a wild pitch by Dodgers righty Edgardo Henriquez that scored Addison Barger. Guerrero Jr advanced to 1st on a walk on the play
• A batter later,  Bo Bichette singled scoring Andres Gimenez 
• Blake Snell pitching line: 6.2IP 6H 5R (all earned) 4BB 7K 116 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as IKF singled scoring Ernie Clement 
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 7IP 3H 1R (earned) 0BB 12K 104 pitches (71 for strikes)

My Take:

• What more can you say about the incredible season Trey Yesavage is having? Only a handful of players have played every tier of the minor league system plus pitched in the majors as a September call up. Nome of them has been as dominant as Trey Yesavage was tonight. He held the defending champion to just one run on three hits while walking none and striking out 12 this Dodgers lineup is full of dangerous hitters, leading off with a guy who became the ONLY member of the 50-50 club and three players who have been the MVP in either the AL (Mookie Betts), NL (Freddie Freeman) or both leagues (Shohei Ohtani). Yesavage struck out all three aforementioned batters and Betts twice. On his 104th and final pitch, he induced an inning ending double play that allowed the bullpen to start with a clean inning. 
• The bullpen, largely considered the weak link of the team is coming together at just the right time. Tonight, Seranthony Dominguez combined to limit the Dodgers to a hit and a walk over the last 2 innings while striking out 3 batters. Jeff Hoffman, who many fans wanted nowhere near the closer's role in the postseason after blowing 7 saves and giving up the most home runs by a reliever, showed why he got 33 saves, ending the game by getting Freeman and Teo to strike out swinging. Still makes me nervous when the starter is pulled, but as long as the offence comes through, the team should be celebrating their 3rd world series title in 48 hrs.
• Speaking of the offence, the depth on the team came through tonight with IKF, a hobbling Bo Bichette, Ernie Clement and Davis Schneider all coming up clutch tonight. Vlad, who is a good bet to be the World series MVP, also went deep. Under the watchful eye of David Popkins, the Blue Jays hitters have had much better approaches at the plate and they have had better power, while also finding other ways to score.
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays will try to extend the win streak to 3 games and secure their 3rd world series title. Kevin Gausman starts against Dodgers righty Yoshinobu Yamamoto

World Series #5 Toronto Blue Jays (2-2) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (2-2)

 

World Series #4 Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (2-1)

 

World Series #3 Toronto Blue Jays (1-1) @ Los Angeles Dodgers (1-1)

 

World Series game 2 - LA Dodgers (1-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (1-1) - game recap.

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6.2 strong innings in a 5-1 loss to the Dodgers

After a huge comeback win on the back of a 9 run 6th inning, the Blue Jays were looking to take a commanding 2-0 series lead before the series shifts west to LA. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was not in the starting lineup tonight with IKF getting the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Will Smith singled scoring Freddie Freeman.
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom of the 3rd on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored George Springer
• The Dodgers retook the lead in the top of the 7th as Smith annihilated a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Two batters later, Max Muncy smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 4H 3R (all earned) 0BB 6K 79 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 8th on a wild pitch from Jeff Hoffman that scored Andy Pages 
• A batter later, Shohei Ohtani scored on a fielder's choice on a ball hit by Smith
• Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitching line: CG 9IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 105 pitches (73 for strikes)

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 6.2 strong innings, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while waking none and striking 6. Two of the hits were solo home runs he gave up in the 7th inning when he was cleanly tiring. He retired 17 in a row. Even more impressive, he threw just 17 balls. The extra day between starts benefited him. He'll be in line to pitch game 6.
• The bullpen gave up 2 more runs to put the game out of reach. While the runs were charged to Louis Varland, Jeff Hoffman was pitching when the runs scored. He made a mistake on the first run, uncorking a wild pitch and got a tad unlucky not to get a double play. None of the relievers retired every batter faced,
• Offensivey, the Blue Jays were stymied by Japanese phenom Yoshinobu Yamamoto and could only muster a run on a sac fly. Hopefully they fair better in game 4 when they face ShoheI Ohtani
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the series shifts to LA where the Blue Jays need to steal at least one game to bring the series back to Toronto next weekend. Max Scherzer starts against Dodgers righty Tyler Glasnow

World Series #2 Los Angeles Dodgers (0-1) v. Toronto Blue Jays (1-0)

 

World Series game 1 - LA Dodgers (0-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (1-0) - game recap.

 

Addison Barger hit a grand slam in an 11-4 comback win over the Dodgers to open the 2025 World Series

After a HUGE 4-run home run from George Springer and some lights out work from Jeff Hoffman, the Blue Jays opened an unprecedented world series appearance against the defending champion Dodgers. Ty France and Bo Bichette both made the world series roster. Joey Loperfido and Yariel Rodriguez were left off the world series roster. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Myles Straw was in RF. Bichette made his first career big league start at 2B with Ernie Clement at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez at SS and of course Vlad at 1B. The man largely responsible for sending the Blue Jays to the world series for the first time in 32 years, George Springer served as DH. Could the Blue jays open the world series with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Enrique Hernandez singled scoring Teoscar Hernandez
• The Dodgers added a  run in the top of the 3rd as Will Smith singled scoring Mookie Betts
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom of the 4th as Daulton Varsho hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Alejandro Kirk
• Trey  Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 4H 2R (both earned) 3BB 5K 80 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Blue jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Isiah Kiner-Falefa 
• A batter later,  Kirk scored on a bases loaded walk to Nathan Lukes
• Two batters later, Addison Barger drilled a grand slam to straightaway center; also scoring George Springer,  Andres Gimenez and Lukes
• Two batters later, Kirk belted a 2-run jack to dead center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Blake Snell pitching line: 5IP 8H 5R (all earned) 3BB 4K 100 (62 for strikes)
• The Dodgers got one back in unge top of the 7th as Shohei Ohtani whacked a 2-run blast to right and into the Dodgers bullpen)
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Dodgers 4

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4 innings giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while waking 3 and striking out 5. This was the best lineup Yesavage had faced this far and he held this lineup  chock full of future hall of famers to a couple of runs to keep the score closer. He'll get another start in LA if the series isn't a sweep. 
• The bullpen held the Dodgers to a meaningless 2-run HR by arguably the best player on the planet, Shohei Ohtani. Mason Fluharty and Seranthony Dominguez, who was credited with the win, retired every batter they faced
• Offensively, Addison Barger (grand slam), Alejandro Kirk (3 runs scored, including 2-run HR), and Daulton Varsho (2 runs scored, including 2-run HR) led the way.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Davis Schneider and Myles Straw had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 3-5 with runners in scoring posittion
• It was the Blue Jays 4th comeback win of the postseason
• Very nice choice to have Cito Gaston, the manager of the only 2 wotld series titles throw out the first pitch to the team's current manager, Cito Gaston. The game has changed drasticlly since Gaston was managing the team. Instant replay and the ability to challenge calls, as well as the pitch clock didn't exist in either 1992 or 1993
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to take a commanding 2-0 series lead (and extend the win streak to 4 games). Kevin Gausman starts against Dodgers righty Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

World Series #1 Los Angeles Dodgers (0-0) v. Toronto Blue Jays (0-0)

 

ALCS GAME 7 - Seattle Mariners (3-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (4-3) - Game recap

 

George Springer hit a 3-run HR in a 4-3 comeback win over the Mariners to advance to their first world series since 1993

After a huge win yesterday, the Blue Jys were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and punch their ticket to the world series. Shane Bieber 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 punch their ticket to the world series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Josh Naylor singled scoring Julio Rodriguez
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho singled scoring George Springer
• The Mariners retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Rodriguez whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 3.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 74 pitches (44 for strikes)
• George Kirby pitching line: 4IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 65 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 5th as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jaya took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Springer belted a 3-run jack to left-center; also scoring Addison Barger and IKF 
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the post-season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Mariners 3

My Take

• Shane Bieber battled through 3.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Not an efficient game by any means, but the litmus test was alway going to be whether he was getting outs and keeping the score close. Unfortunately tonight, he didn't have the feel for the slider and his command wasn't there either.
• The bullpen held it together aand kept the score close, giving up a run on one hit, while walking 3 and striking out 4 over the last 5.1 innings. Louis Varland gave up a  solo home run. Kevin Gausman, who walked 3 batters, was credited with the win. Jeff Hoffman struck out the side in the 9th with his velo good in spite of 33 pitches thrown yesterday. 
• George Springer provided the Kirk Gibson moment with a HUGE 3-run bomb in the 7th to give the Blue Jays the lead when it looked very much like they were going to fall short. Daulton Varsho drove in the other run to negate the opening inning run manufactured by the Mariners. 
• Every starter had at least one hit. The hallmark of this team all season has been team efforts offensively. They are going to face a much stiffer test against the defending world series champs
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position
• The next few days are going to be very telling with respect to the world series roster. Bo Bichette is trying his darndest to make it back for the world series. It would likely be the last time with him in a Blue Jays uniform with Bichette set to hit free agency and cash in after a strong regular season. If Bichette is added to the world series roster, IKF would likely be the odd man out 
• Could we see an encore of Max Scherzer vs. Clayton Kershaw in the world series. Both legends could call it a career after this season (Kershaw has already said he is done)
• There are going to be a lot of fans who were either not alive or are too young to remember one or both world series the Blue Jays one. Yours truly was only 9 years old when Joe Carter hit a walk-off home run to win the 1993 world series and I only remember Carter's home run because I called it while watching with my family. I remember my uncle thinking Darnell Cole, who was on deck would be the hero. I have no real recollection of the 1992 world series
• Up next, the world series against the defending champion LA Dodgers, who have been idle since last Friday after sweeping Milwaukee, who finished with the best record in the MLB. The Dodgers won the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-7. Neither team has set their rotation for the series, but expect Kevin Gausman to get the nod in game 1.

ALCS #7 Seattle Mariners (3-3) v. Toronto Blue Jays (3-3)

 

ALCS GAME 6 - Seattle Mariners (3-3) @ Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) - Game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in 3 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 6-2 win over the Mariners to force a game 7

After dropping game 5 in Seattle, the Blue Jays were looking to keep their season alive as they returned home to Toronto. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was in the lineup despite leaving game 5 after getting hit in the knee by a pitch. The rest of the lineup was the same as was in Seattle. Could the Blue Jays win and force a game seven? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Addison Barger singled scoring Daulton Varsho 
• A batter later Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled home Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Barger belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. bashed a solo jack to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 4IP 7H 5R (4 earned) 1BB 3K 75 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the top of the 6th as Josh Naylor hammered a solo bomb off the basing of the second deck
• Two batters later, Eugenio Suarez singled scoring Randy Arozarena 
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 7K 87 pitches (56 or strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a throwing error by Cal Raleigh that scored Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Mariners 2

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 7, Yesavage benefited from 2 inning ending double play balls. He also retired the first 6 batters he faced. He should get a strong look in spring training at a spot in the rotation.
• The bullpen was solid tonight, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out 8 over the last 3.1 innings. A rested Hoffman had good velocity, but that may not be the case tomorrow after he threw 33 pitches over 2 innings. John Schneider wasn't about to take any chances with the season on the line and used his closer to get the last 6 outs.
• Offensively, Addison Barger (3RBI, including 2-run HR), Ernie Clement (2 runs scored) and Vlad (2 runs scored on solo GR and great running effort to force a bad throw from Cal Raleigh) carried the day.
• The Blue Jays were 3-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, game seven with the wnner taking on the Dodgers at home starting on Friday. George Kirby starts for the Mariners. The Blue Jays will likely turn to Shane Bieber.

ALCS #6 Seattle Mariners (3-2) v. Toronto Blue Jays (2-3)

 

ALCS GAME 5 - Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Seattle Mariners (3-2) - Game recap-

 

Kevin Gausman threw 5.2 solid innings in a 6-2 come-from-behind loss to the Mariners

After a second straight convincing won thanks to the offence getting to the starting pitcher and a strong start from Max Scherzer, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and put themselves on the verge of punching their ticket to the world series. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and give themselves a chance to punch their ticket to the world series at home on Sunday? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Eugenio Suarez belted a solo jack to left-center 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 5th as George Springer doubled scoring Addison Barger
• Bryce Miller pitching line: 4IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 56 pitches (39 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 6th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Alejandro Kirk
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 91 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Mariners tied it in the bottom of the 8th as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to left and into the Mariners bullpen
• Four batters later, Suarez blasted a grand slam to the opposite field in right; also scoring Jorge Polanco, Josh Naylor and Randy Arozarena
• Final score: Mariners 6 Blue Jays 2

My Take: 

• Kevin Gausman fired 5.2 strong innings, giving up a run on 3 hitd whie walking 2 and striking out 4. Gausman retired 13 of the last 16 batters he faced. The only run he gave up was a solo home runs, an issue that has been rearing it's ugly head. If the Blue Jays force a game 7 with a win Sunday, he'll likely be available in the bullpen
• The bullpen, and in particular Brandon Little, who gave up a game-tying homer to Cal Raleigh, who continues to have a season for the ages offensively, and Seranthony  Dominguez, who gave up a grand slam. Little, who did not retire a batter, was tagged with the loss and blown save.
• Offensively, George Springer and Ernie Clement. Vlad is going to be criticized big time for striking out with runners on 1st and 2nd with 2 outs in the 5th. The Mariners opted to intentionally walk him in two other plate appearances. They need production from the batters before and after Vlad so the Mariners have no choice but to pitch to him
• There has to be concern about George Springer, who left the game after getting hit in the knee by a pitch. Hopefully with a day between games, he'll be good to go for game 6.
• The Blue Jays were 2-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to win game 6 in Toronto to keep their season alive. Trey Yesavage starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners have not announced a starter yet

ALCS #5 Toronto Blue Jays (2-2) @ Seattle Mariners (2-2)

 

ALCS #4 Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Seattle Mariners (2-1)

 

ALCS GAME 3 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Seattle Mariners (2-1) - Game recap

 

Aleejandro Kirk hit a 3-run HR in a 13-4 comeback win over the Mariners

After another game lost due to the bullpen blowing the game, the Blue Jays were looking to get back in the ALCS with a win in Seattle. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Anthony Santander was in RF. Could the Bklue Jays snap the 2-game skid and get their 1st win of the ALCS? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Julio Rodriguez belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Randy Arozarena
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 3rd as Andres Gimenez whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Six batters later, Nathan Lukes scored on a wild pitch by George Kirby
• Same batter, Daultion Varsho doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Alejandro Kirk
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Four batters later, Clement singled scoring Anthony Santander. Kirk was thrown out at 3rd base on the play
• George Kirby pitching line:4IP 8H 8R (all earned) 2BB 4-K 74 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Gimenez scored on a ground out hit by Lukes
• Three batters later, Kirk whacked a 3-run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Guerrero Jr. and Springer
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 88 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Arozarena drilled a solo blast to left-center
• A batter later, Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Addison Barger drilled a solo blast to right-center
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Mariners 4

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. After a tough first inning that saw Bieber cough up 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk, the veteran righty settled down and retired 17 of the last 19 batters he faced. Coming off tommy john surgery, Bieber is likely the freshest player on either team. This start will certainly increase offers Bieber gets in free agency (Bieber is expected to decline his player's option and hit the free agent market 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Both runs were charged to Yariel Rodriguez, who gave up back-to-back home runs. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• The offense exploded like a pop bottle, erupting to score 13 runs on 18 hits. It was a team effort led by Alejandro Kirk (2 runs scored, including a 3-run HR), Andres Gimenez (2 runs scored, including a 2-run HR), Daulon Varsho (2RBI), Vlad (was 4-4, scored 3 times, including a solo HR), George Springer, scored twice, including a solo HR) Nathan Lukes (RBI, run scored)
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Anthony Santamder had a hit. Every Blue Jays starter either scored a run or drove in a run
• The Blue Jays were 4-16 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and even the ALCS. Max Scherzer starts against Mariners righty Luis Castillo.

ALCS #3 Toronto Blue Jays (0-2) @ Seattle Mariners (2-0)

ALCS GAME 2 - Seattle Mariners (2-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (0-2) - Game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in 2 runs and scored once in a 10-3 loss to the Mariners. He was only credited with one RBI due to a throwing error by Mariners 1B Josh Naylor on the first ron of the day.

After dropping the opener of the ALCS due to the bullpen blowing the save and the inept offence mustering two hits, one being a leadoff HR, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was a late scratch with back tightness and Davis Schneider took his place in LF. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Julio Rodriguez belted a 3-run jack to the second deck in left; also scoring Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring George Springer
• Three batters later,  Alejandro Kirk singled home Lukes 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 2nd as Lukes singled scoring Springer 
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 3IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 1BB 2K 58 pitches (39 for strikes)
• The Mariners took the lead in the top of the 5th as Jorge Polanco hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Arozarena and Raleigh
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 4H 5R (all earned) 3BB 4K 70 pitches (43 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 6th as JP Crawford singled Leo Rivas
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Josh Naylor smashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Polanco
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 7th on a sac fly by Crawford that scored Eugenio Suarez 
• Final score: Mariners 10 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4 innings, giving up 5 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. He had a tough start to the game, falling behind by three before recording an out after hitting the first batter he faced, pitching around Cal Raleigh and giving up a no-doubter to Julio Rodriguez. He did retire 6 in a row at one point. Same situation happened as last night where the Mariners took the lead immediately after Yesavage left the game. Unfortunate since it tacked two more runs onto Yesavage's pitching line
• The bullpen gave up a further 5 runs (technically 7 if you count the two charged to starter Trey Yesavage on the 3-run HR given up by Louis Varland, who was the first reliever out of the bullpen tonight. Chris Bassitt was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. If the Blue Jays are eliminated in a sweep, very plausible with how the series is going, Pete Walker should be the scapegoat. It is very troubling that the pitchers continue to give up home runs. The pitching is the weak link this year. It's hard to come back in the playoffs and a 7-run deficit is virtually insurmountable.
• Offensively, the bats have gone cold at the worst possible time. Nathan Lukes drove in 2 of the 3 runs. Alejandro Kirk drove in Lukes for the other run,
• Time to swich up the lineup. Bring Myles Straw in at the very least.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap a 2-game skid as they face a daunting task where they must win 4 of the next 5 games and at least 2 of 3 in Seattle. Shane Bieber starts against Mariners righty George Kirby

ALCS #2 Seattle Mariners (1-0) v. Toronto Blue Jays (0-1)

 

ALCS GAME 1 - Seattle Mariners (1-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (0-1) - Game recap

 

George Springer hit a leadoff HR in a losing effort as the Marineras came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 3-1

After a hard-fought ALDS triumph over the Yankees, the Blue Jays opened the ALCS against expansion cousins the Seattle Mariners. The Blue Jays won the seaon series against the Mariners, outscoring the Mariners 31-24. Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer were added to the ALCS roster and Justin Bruihl and Tommy Nance were dropped. Bo Bichette was also left off the roster. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was at SS, Ernie Clement was at 2B and of course Vlad got the nod at 1B. Could the Blue Jays open the ALCS with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off with a solo blast to the second deck of the opposite field in right
• Nathan Lukes left the game prior to the 4th inning after fouling a ball off his right knee
• The Mariners tied it in the top of the 7th as Cal Raleigh belted a solo jack to right-center
• Two batters later, Jorge Polanco singled scoring Juliu Rodriguez
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 76 pitches (48 for strikes)
• Bryce Miller pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 3BB 3K 76 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 8th as Jorge Polanco singled scoring Randy Arozarena
• Andres Munoz pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the postseason
• Final score: Mariners 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 3 his while walking 1 and striking out 5. It's unfortunate how the 6th inning played out with Gausman a strike away from a perfect inning and a solid pitch count still in the 60s. He retired 16 in a row before Cal Raleigh (who else?) took him deep.
• The bullpen surrendered 2 runs  (one charged to Gausman) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over the last 3.1 innings. Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced. Louis Varland, Brandon Little and Seranthony Dominiguez scare me. Dominguez has a tendency to walk batters, Litlle struggles against righties and Varland hasn't really been himself since joining the Blue Jays 
• Offensively, George Springer hit a leadoff home run and that was about it. Vlad's magic from the ALDS didn't materialize tonight - he was 0-4 at the plate. The Blue Jays need tto show more discipline at the plate. The three Mariners relievers needed just 24 pitches to get the last 9 outs
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next,  the Blue Jays try to even the series. Trey Yesavage starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners have not named a starter for game 2 yet. They needed to use 3 starting pitchers in the 15 inning marathon yesterday and Bryan Woo is just coming off the injured list and may not be at his best.

ALCS #1 Seattle Mariners (0-0) v. Toronto Blue Jays (0-0)

 

Saturday Night Spanish Guitar aka WTFJITH aka The Calm before the Storm aka Game #5 Chicago Cubs (2-2) v. Milwaukee Brewers (2-2)

 

ALDS GAME 4 - New York Yankees (1-3) @ Toronto Blue Jays (3-1) - Game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in a pair of runs in a 5-2 win over the Yankees to advance to the ALCS for the first time since 2016

After the bullpen Blue yesterday's game, the Blue Jays were looking to eliminate the Yankees and avoid a decisive game 5. It was a bullpen game today with Louis Varland starting with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays finish off the Yankees? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer
• Louis Varland pitching line: 1.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 2K 20 pitches (12 for strikes)
• The Yankees tied it in the bottom of the 3rd as Ryan McMahon whacked a solo blast to right
• The Blue jays retook the lead in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Springer that scored Ernie Clement 
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Clement and Andres Gimenez 
• Cam Schlittler pitching line: 6.2IP 8H 4R (2 earned) 0BB 2K 88 pitches ( 69 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Myles Straw singled scoring Alejandro Kirk
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Aaron Judge singled scoring Jasson Dominguez
• Jeff Hoffman got the last 4 outs for his first save of the postseason
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Yankees 2

My Take:

• Opener Louis Varland bounced back very nicely after giving up 2 home runs last night and getting tagged with both the loss and the blown save. Tonight he got the first 4 outs and held the Yankees to a hit and a hit batter
• The rest of the bullpen to 2 runs on 5 hits and 6 walks while striking out 8 over the last 7.2 innings. This was a good lineup, the key was executing pitches when they had to. Some good defense behind them helped too. Jeff Hoffman got Austin Wells to fly out to end the 8th and escape a bases loaded jam. Probbably not wise to pitch to Aaron Judge in the 9th, but at least there were 2 outs and Hoffman kept him in the ball park. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• The veterans came through tonight. Vlad opened the scoring in the top of the 1st with a clutch RBI single. There is going to be tons of scrutiny on Vlad next year when his $500 million, 14 year deal, especially when he slumps, but at the moment it looks like a steal. Vlad became the first player in ALDS/NLDS history to have 9 hits and 9RBI in a single ALDS series. Veteran George Springer scored once and drove in a run. Nathan Lukes drove in a pair, and Myles Straw had a huge RBI single in the 8th to give the bullpen a 4-run cushion with 6 outs to get
• The Blue Jays were 3-17 with runners in scoring position
• Inckluding the postseason, the Blue Jays were a combined 11-6 against the Yankees, outsoring their division rivals 107-75
• It will be interesting to see if some injured players come back. If Chris Bassitt and Bo Bichette are healthy, both will surely be added to the ALCS roster. Likely, Justin Bruihl and IKF would be left off the roster if both are ready to roll. Could Max Scherzer also be on the ALCS roster. He is 4-2 against the Mariners with a 2.97ERA over 9 starts in his career. He would also surely relish the opportunity to eliminate one of his former teams. Mind you, he is 2-3 with a 3.34ERA against the Tigers over 5 starts.
• Up next, the ALCS where the Blue Jays will face off against the winner of the Tigers/Mariners game 5 on Friday. The Blue Jays won the season series 4-3 against the Tigers, outscoring the Tigers 35-27. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Mariners 4-2, outscoring the Mariners 31-24. The road team won all series in both season series. The Blue Jays swept the Mariners in Seattle. Who starts game 1 for both teams will be largely determined by the health of Bassitt, but it'll likely be Kevin Gausman taking the bump first. With the winner of the Mariners/Tigers game on Friday needing to travel cross country, the ALCS will likely start on Thanksgiving Monday.

ALDS Game #4 Toronto Blue Jays (2-1) @ New York Yankees (1-2)

 

ALDS GAME 3 - Toronto Blue Jays (2-1) @ New York Yankees (1-2) - Game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Yankees came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 9-6

After another resounding win over the Yankees thanks to 5 no hit innings from Trey Yesavage and a team effort offensively, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 6 games and eliminate the Yankees. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was in RF, Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 6 games and eliminate the Yankees? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr whacked a 2-2-run blast to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Davis Schneider 
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Giancarlo Stanton singled scoring Aaron Judge 
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Daulton Varsho singled home Schneider
• A batter later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• A batter after that, Anthony Santander singled scoring Clement and Varsho
• Carlos Rodon pitching line: 2.1IP 6H 6R (all earned) 2BB 2K 67 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom of the 3rd as Judge doubled scoring Trent Grisham
• Three batters later, Cody Bellinger scored on a sac fly by Stanton 
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 2.2IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 1BB 2K 54 pitches (36 for strikes)
• The Yankees tied it in the bottom of the 4th as Judge hammered a 3-run bomb off the left foul pole; also scoring Austin Wells and Grisham 
• The Yankees took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Jazz Chiaholm Jr. hammered a solo omb off the basing of the second  deck in right.
• Three batters later, Wells singled scoring Arned Rosario
• The Yankees added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Ben Rice that scored Judge
• David Bednar got the last 5 outs for his 2nd save of the postseason
• Final score: Yankees 9 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

• Shane Bieber lasted just 2.2 innings,  giving up 3 runs (2 earned) on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. John Schneider continues to not trust his starters in crucial playoff games and it cost the team with Aaron Judge ripping a 3-run bomb off the left foul pole to tie the game.  With the bullpen such a wild card,  I would have let Bieber try to at least escape the 3rd inning
• After giving up 7 runs over 3 innings yesterday, the bullpen imploded again, giving up 6 runs on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4 ove 5.1 innings. Louis Varland was taken deep twice, including the 3-run HR that tied the game and the go-ahead HR. Yariel Rodriguez was the only reliever to retire every batter faced. If the Yankees come back and win the series, Pete Walker should be the scapegoat. The bullpen hasn't been great in the last month or two, his mound visits have been largely ineffective, with the opponent usually scoring shortly afterwards. I said all along that the bullpen was going to be the X factor that determines how deep this team goes. If Blue Jays fans thought tonight ws a nail biter, they best put something bitter on those nails because the Blue Jays are expected to go with a bullpen game tomorrow as they try to elimnate the Yankees tomorrow night.
• The bats certainly did their job with 6 runs. Vladdy has been the difference maker the Blue Jays were hoping for with a huge 2-run HR to give the Blue Jays the lead in the 1st inning. Anthony Santander had a clutch 2-run single that gave the Blue Jays the 5-run cushion that should have been enough on most days
• The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring posittion
• It's never a good idea to wake a sleeping giant. Thrtr has no be regrets sbout pullimg Trey Yresavage when they did because it gave Yankees hitters confidence, even though the Blue Jays held on to win two nights ago
• Up next, the dreaded bullpen game. Look for Louis Varland to be the opener and Eric Lauer to get the nod as the bulk inning guy. The Yankees will counter with righty Cam Schlitter.

ALDS Game #3 Toronto Blue Jays (2-0) @ New York Yankees (0-2)

 

ALDS GAME 2 - New York Yankees (0-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-0) - Game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in 4 runs, including 2 home runs and scored 4 times in a 13-7 victory over the Yankees

After a rout over the Yankees on the strength of a team effort offensively and great defense and pitching,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games and put the Yankees on the brink of elimination. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 5 straight wins and put the Yankees on the brink of elimination? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Bllue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement whacked a 2-run home run to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd on a ground out by Alejandro Kirk that scored Davis Schneider
• A batter later, Varsho doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter after that Clement singled home Varsho
• The Blue Jays addeed 4 runs in the bottom of the 4th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a grand slam to the second deck in left; also scoring Andres Gimenez, Myles Straw and George Springer
• Two batters later, Varsho belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Kirk 
• Max Fried pitching line: 3IP 8H 7R (all earned) 2BB 1K 51 pitches (32 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Yankees got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Cody Bellinger whacked a 2-run blast to right and into the Yankees bullpen; also scoring Aaron Judge\
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.2IP 0H 0R 1BB 11K 78 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Varsho smacked a solo blast to right
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Judge singled scoring Ryan McMahon
• A batter later, Paul Goldschmidt scored on a sac fly by Bellinger
• A batter after that, Ben Rice doubled scoring Trent Grisham
• A batter later, Giancarlo Stanton singled home Judge
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Yankees 7

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage was fantastic, firing 5.1 no-hit innings, walking one batter and striking out 11. Yesavage retired 15 of the last 16 batters he faced and 12 in a row. It's just a shame he was lifted after recording the first out of the inning in the 6th. I would have definitely let him finish the inning. An extra 5-10 pitches would have put him below 90 on the day.
• The bullpen imploded, giving up 7 runs on 10 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 3.2 innings. Jusstin Bruihl, Eric Lauer and Tommy Nance all retired only a batter each and combined to give up 7 runs on 9 hits. This postseason still feels very much like 2022 where that year's bullpen blew a substantial lead on the way to being swept by the Mariners. The bullpen is very much going to be the x factor in whether the Blue Jays prevail in the ALDS. Schneider needs to learn from today and stick with his starter when they are pitching well. Here's hoping the bats stay hot as the series shifts to enemy territory in the Bronx
• Oh baby did the bats ever come through today.Vlad hit a huge grand slam in the 5th to extend the Blue Jays lead to 9 runs, Daulton Varsho went deep twice and drove in 4 runs and scored 4 times, Ernie Clement opened the scoring with a 2-run shot, and Alejandro Kirk drove in one and scored once. The stars are doing what they should be doing and the kids are joining in the party as well.
• The Blue Jays were 4-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to New York where they will be looking to extend the win streak to 6 games and get their first opportunity to eliminate the Yankees. Shane Bieber starts against Yankees lefty Carlos Rodon.

ALDS Game #2 New York Yankees (0-1) v. Toronto Blue Jays (1-0)

 

ALDS GAME 1 - New York Yankees (0-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (1-0) - Game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in three runs in a 10-1 rout over the Yankees

The Blue Jays opened their first playoff series in 2 years as they host the Yankees, who defeated the Red Sox in the Wild Card series to earn the right to take on the Blue Jays in what is expected to be a tight and exciting series. The Blue Jays are coming off a tremendous regular season that saw them win 94 games (49 comeback victories). The Blue Jays won the season series against the Yankees 8-5, outscoring the Yankees 70-59. Max Scherzer, Chris Bassitt and Jose Berrios were all left off the playoff roster, as well as Bo Bichette, who just wasn't ready. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The outfield today was Anthony Santander in LF, Daulton Varsho in CF and Nathan Lukes in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was in SS, Ernie Clement was at 2B and, of course, Vlad was at 1B. George Springer served as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games and win the first game of the ALDS? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. belted a solo jack to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Alejandro Kirk hammered a solo bomb to the second  deck in left
• Luis Gil pitching line: 2.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 2K 48 pitches (34 for strikes)
• The Yankees got one back in the top of the 6th on a bases loaded walk to Cody Bellinger that scored Anthony Volpe\
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 3K 75 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Three batters later, Nathan Lukes singled scoring Gimenez and Ernie Clement
• A batter later, George Springer scored on a sac fly by Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Kirk whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Three batters later, Gimenez doubled scoring Varsho
• A batter later, Myles Sttaw scored on a sac fly by Clement
• Two batters later, Lukes singled scoring Gimenez
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Yankees 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 5.5 solid innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. Gausman retired 10 in a row at one point, started by a HUGE line drive double play started by a massive diving catch by Vlad, who had a huge game himself. This was the start the Blue Jays needed from their ace.
• The bullpen threw 3.1 scoreless innings, giving up 2 hits, walking none and striking out three. Jeff Hoffman and Anthony Dominguez retired every batter they faced.
• The offence came up huge with Vlad (sac fly, solo HR), Andres Gimenez (2 RBI, 2 runs scored), Nathan Lukes (3RBI), and Alejandro Kirk (2 solo HR)
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Ernie Clement and George Springer had a hit. Every starter but Anthony Santander and  Addison Barger either scored a run or drove in a run. 
• The Blue Jays were 5-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 5 games and put the Yankees on the verge of elimination. Trey Yesavage starts against Yankees lefty Max Fried

ALDS Game #1 New York Yankees (0-0) v. Toronto Blue Jays (0-0)

 

Wildcard Round Game #3 Tigers (1-1) @ Guardians (1-1), Padres (1-1) @ Cubs (1-1), Red Sox (1-1) @ Yankees (1-1)

 

Wildcard Round Game #2 Tigers (1-0) @ Guardians (0-1), Padres (0-1) @ Cubs (1-0), Red Sox (1-0) @ Yankees (0-1), Reds (0-1) @ Dodgers (1-0)

 

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