Game #49 Toronto Blue Jays (21-27) @ New York Yankees (30-19)

 

Game #48 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-27) @ New York Yankees (30-19) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez drove in a run and scored a run in a 5-4 come-from-behind loss to the Yankees

After a heartbreaking loss yesterday due to a rough inning from Yariel Rodriguez and a last minute rally falling short, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Lefty Joe Mantiply was placed on the 15 day IL with left knee inflammation. Righty Chase Lee was recalled from AAA-ball. Dylan Cease got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate Yohendrick Pinago was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Andres Gimenez was at SS. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Yohendrick Pinago singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• A batter later, Jesus Sanchez singled scoring Kazuma Okamoto
• Two batters later, Andres Gimenez singled home Pinago
• The Yankees tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Ryan McMahon whacked a 3-run blast to the opposite field in left; also scoring Aaron Judge and Jazz Chisholm Jr. 
• The Yankees took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Ben Rice belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Trent Grisham
• Will Warren pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 3K 86 strikes (54 for strikes)
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 5IP 4H 5R (all earned) 4BB 9K 100 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored Gimenez
• Camilo Doval got the last three outs for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Yankees 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Dylan Cease battled through 5 innings giving up 5 runs on 4 hits while walking 4 and striking out 9. Real tough 4th inning for him giving up the 3-run lead on one bad pitch and a further 2 runs an inning later. Certainly didn't have his best stuff going and he was fairly inefficient. He'll bounce back
• The bullpen threw 3 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking 3. Louis Varland retired every batter he faced.
• The offense came up a run short on a 9th inning rally for the second straight day. Daulton Varsho got 4 hits and scored a run. Andres Gimenez and Yohendrick Pinago both scored a run and drove in a run.
• The Yankees were 1-1 on ABS challenges and Kazuma Okamoto was unsuccessful in the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and avoid theitr 11th series loss of the season. Trey Yesavage starts against Yankees righty Cam Schlittler 

Game #48 Toronto Blue Jays (21-26) @ New York Yankees (29-19)

 

Game #47 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-26) @ New York Yankees (29-19) - game recap

Ernie Clement hit a 3-run HR, drove in 4 runs and scored twice in a losing effort as the Yankees came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 7-6

After a huge road series win thanks to the bats of Vlad and Daulton Varsho and 6 shutout innings from ace Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to three games as they faced their division rivals, the NY Yankees for the first time this season in a rematch of last year's ALDS. The Blue Jays took the season series 8-5 last year, outscoring the Yankees 70-59. Patrick Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. George Springer and Kazuma Okamoto were both in the lineup after complete days off yesterday. Ernie Clement was at SS and Lenyn Sosa was at 2B. Davis Schneider got the start in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• George Springer got his 1500th hit with a leadoff single in the 1st inning\
• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Paul Goldschmidt whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 4th as Ernie Clement whacked a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Kazuma Okamoto
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by JC Escarra that scored Anthony Volpe
• A batter later, Goldschmidt doubled scoring Max Schuemann
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 5th as George Springer smacked a solo blast to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 4IP 6H 3R (all earned) 3BB 3K 79 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Clement that scored Lenyn Sosa
• Ryan Weathers pitching line: 5.1IP 7H 5R (all earned) 0BB 7K 90 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Yankees tied it in the bottom of the 7th as Cody Bellinger hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Aaron Judge
• Two batters later, Jazz Chisholm Jr. smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in left and off the left foul pole; also scoring Trent Grisham
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Clement
• David Bednar got the last 3 outs for his 11th save of the season
• Final score: Yankees 7 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin battled through 4 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. The team needed a shutdown inning from him after taking the lead in the top of the 4th but couldn't get it done in a bizarre inning that saw Davis Schneider drop a fly ball, Brandon Valenzuela commit a fielding error and later missing a tag. Corbin could not have had a worst start to the game, getting taken deep on the first pitch he threw to leadoff man Paul Goldschmidt. At least the offense was able to bail him out at the end so he got a no-decision
• As for the bullpen, rookie Canadian Adam Macko did his job, retiring all three batters he faced. Veteran Yariel Rodriguez, not so much. Just recalled, YRod was taken deep twice and gave up 4 runs and retired just one batter. At least Jeff Hoffman rebounded from a few tough outings and got out of the mess YRod created.
• It was the Ernie Clement show tonight. Erndog, who has the bizarre ritual of using his teammates bats when his aren't working, hit a huge 3-run HR to give the Blue Jays a brief lead, drove in 4 overall and scored twice. Davis Schneider had a rough day at the office, striking out twice, but at least he was successful in his ABS challenge. At the end of the day, the big bats haven't come through at the crucial times on too many nights. Springer struck out swinging and Vlad followed that up by grounding out to end the game.
• Both teams were 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position - not good enough
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Dylan Cease starts against Yankees righty Will Warren

Game #47 Toronto Blue Jays (21-25) @ New York Yankees (28-19)

 

Game #46 - Toronto Blue Jays (21-25) @ Detroit Tigers (20-27) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw six shutout innings in a 4-1 win over the Tigers.

After a huge win yesterday thanks to a clutch hit off the bat of Daulton Varsho, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 6th series win of the season. Tommy Nance was placed on the 15 day IL with right forearm tightness. Lefty Adam Macko was recalled from AAA-ball. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lenyn Sosa at 1B. Kazuma Okamoto got the complete day off with Ernie Clement at the hot corner and Davis Schneider at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 6th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. belted a solo jack to left
• Two batters later, Daulton Varsho scored on a wild pitch by Jack Flaherty
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Varsho tripled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Varsho scored on a sac fly by Jesus Sanchez
• Jack Flaherty pitching line: 6IP 5H 4R (all earned) 0BB 4K 90 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 0BB 5K 97 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Tigers got one back in the bottom of the 8th on a fielder's choice hit by Jahmal Jones that scored Wenceel Perez
• Tyler Rogers pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Tigers 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 6 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking none and striking out 5. He retired 7 in a row at one point. Gausman has regressed a bit in terms of his effectiveness, perhaps starting to show his age? Nonetheless, Gausman got a very big 18 outs to save the bullpen for a huge series starting tomorrow at Yankee stadium
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and strikinng out 2 over the last 3 innings. Tyler Rogers and Joe Mantiply struggled to find the strike zone and Rogers almost certainly won't pitch tomorrow night since he had a tough inning and pitched Saturday.Here's hoping no other relievers require an IL stint since Schneider mentioned a couple of relievers being banged up.
• Boy did Vlad need that home run to open the scoring. He scored twice, including the home run. Daulton Varsho also had a solid day with 2 runs scored and an RBI. Lenyn Sosa and Davis Schneider probably won't be on the big league squad much longer once Addison Barger and Nathan Lukes come back.
• Lots of ABS challenges today. The Blue Jays were 2-1 and the Tigers were 1-2 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in NY in a rematch of last year's ALDS. The Blue Jays took the season series 8-5 last year, outscoring the Yankees 70-59. Patrick Corbin starts against Yankees lefty Ryan Weathers.

Game #46 Toronto Blue Jays (20-25) @ Detroit Tigers (20-26)

 

Game #45 - Toronto Blue Jays (20-25) @ Detroit Tigers (20-26) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho had a clutch RBI base hit in the 10th to lead the Blue Jays to a clutch 2-1 extra innings comeback win over the Tigers

After a loss to the Tigers last night due to Jeff Hoffman being unable to get the game to extra innings, The Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. It was a bullpen day with Mason Fluharty getting the start and Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Lenyn Sosa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights: 

• Mason Fluharty pitching line: 1.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 3K 18 pitches (13 for strikes)
• The Tigers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 6th as Adam Vireling whacked a solo shot to left and into the Tigers bullpen
• Casey Mize pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 0BB 4K 71 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 7th as Yohendrick Pinago smackeda solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Tigers 1 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Mason Fluharty did his part in today's bullpen game, pounding the strike zone, racking up 3 strikeouts and only allowing one hit. For at least the next month, the Blue Jays will have to cobble things together after the news that Jose Berrios will undergo elbow surgery next Wednesday putting him out a minimum 2 months and could be 12-18 months due to possible ligament damage. Shane Bieber, if no setbacks, could be back in the rotation sometime in June.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 11 over the last 8.2 innings. Louis Varland has slid into the closer/highest leverage role quite nicely. Got into a bit of trouble in the 9th but pitched his way out of it. Spencer Miles should be stretched out to a tranditional starters role.
• The offence is still very much ice cold. Yohendrick Pinago, who should not have been optioned to AAA-ball when Addison Barger returned from the IL for a game, knocked one out in the 7th to tie the game. Daulton Varsho drove in Vlad in the 10th inning and that was just enough to get the win. Vlad just looks lost at the plate.
• The Tigers were a perfect 2-0 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were 1-1 on ABS challenges. You know things are going bad for Davis Schneider when he loses an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 2 straight wins and to notch their 6th series win of the season. It will be a battle of the aces as Kevin Gausman takes on Tigers righty Jack Flaherty (that was a mistake in yesterday's recap, scrolled too far forward on mlb.com.

Game #45 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-25) @ Detroit Tigers (20-25)

 

Game #44 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-25) @ Detroit Tigers (20-25) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez drove in the only 2 Blue Jays runs in a losing effort as the Tigers came from behind to walk off the Blue Jays 3-2

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a weekend series in Detroit. The Blue Jays took the season series last year, outscoring the Tigers 35-26. Trey Yesavage got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Wednesday's walk-off win. 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 top of the 2nd as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring Kazuma Okamoto and Ernie Clement 
• Brendan Hanifee pitching line: 1IP 1H 1R (earned) 0BB 1K 14 pitches (11 for strikes)
• The Tigers got one back in the bottom of the 3rd of a wild pitch by Trey Yesavage that scored Kevin McGonigle
• The Tigers tied it in the bottom of the 6th as Riley Greene doubled scoring Dillon Dingler
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 6IP 4H 2R (both earned) 3BB 6K 88 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Tigers walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Spencer Torkelson singled scoring Matt Vierling
• Final score: Tigers 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage fired 6 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hiis while walking 3 and striking out 6. He's still trying to work his way into mid-season form with his command being iffy. Yesavage uncorked 3 wild pitches and wasn't as efficient as he could have been.  The Blue jays are going to be very careful with his work load and you won't see him pushing 100 pitches very often. He's getting better every start though, so progress
• The bullpen gave up 1 run on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 2.2 innings. Jeff Hoffman has proven the last couple of outings that he should not be handed the closer's role again. Daulton Varsho saved his butt on Wednesday with a walk-off grand slam after Hoffman gave up a pair of runs in the top half of the inning. Tonight, he had to get through the inning to send the game to extra innings. His velocity was solid tonight, but his command hasn't been good enough. He could be Pete Walker's next pet project.
• Offensively, Andres hit a clutch 2-run double in the 2nd, but the bats weren't able to do much after that on a bullpen game for the Tigers. Vlad and Kazuma Okamoto both made poor decisions to swing on 3-0 counts. Vlad should have known better, but he is pressing hard to prove he's worth the $500 million investment the team has made in him.
• Brandon Valenzuela is going to need a big ice pack after getting dinged a few times by wild pitches. Maybe Tyler Heineman will get an extra start if Valenzuela wakes up sore in the morning.
• The Tigers were 1-1 on ABS challenges and Ernie Clement was unsuccessful in the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. It will be a bullpen day in the truest sense of the word with Eric Lauer DFA'd the day after his last ugly appearance. Mason Fluharty will be the first man up with Yariel Rodriguez expected to pitch some innings too. The Tigers will counter with righty Jack Flaherty

Game #44 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-24) @ Detroit Tigers (19-25) AppleTV Exclusive

 

Game #43 - Tampa Bay Rays (28-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (19-24) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a walk off grand slam as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Rays 5-3 in extra innings

After an extra innings loss yesterday due to Brayden Fisher giving up runs in the 10th inning, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3 game skid and avoid being swept for the 3rd time this season and 2nd straight time vs. the Rays. Dylan Cease got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Yohendrick Pinago was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was back at SS after the complete day off yesterday with Ernie Clement at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3 game skid and avoid being swept for the 3rd time this season and 2nd straight time vs. the Rays? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Griffin Jax pitching line: 5IP 4H 0R 4BB 1K 66 pitches (38 for strikes)
• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 7th as Richie Palacios singled scoring Jonathan Aranda
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 7IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 9K 99 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 8th on a sac fly by Kazuma Okamoto that scored George Springer
• The Mets retook the lead in the top of the 10th as Ben Williamson singled scoring Chandler Simpson
• Two batters later, Yandy Diaz singled home Diaz
• The Blue Jays won iit in the bottom half of the inning on a walk off grand slam to the opposite field in left and into the Blue Jays bullpen by Daulton Varsho; also scoring Springer, Okamoto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Rays 3 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 7 strong innings, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 9. He's turned into an excellent off-season signing and has been giving the Blue Jays a chance to win every game. He retired the first 10 batters he faced.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 3 innings. Jeff Hoffman proved he still can't handle a high leverage situation with the game on the line. He allowed two runs in the 10th inning. Mason Fluharty retired the only batter he faced
• The offense faced the same scenario as last night: down 2 runs in the bottom of the 10th. This time they took full advantage of a pitcher  that is not good and loaded the bases before Daulton Varsho walked it off with a grand slam. Kazuma Okamoto drove in the other Blue Jays run with a sac fly
• Rays catcher Hunter Feduccia was 2-2 on ABS challenges. The Blue Jays catchers Brandon Valenzuela and Tyler Heineman both successully overturned one ABS challenge each
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays commence a road trip in Detroit. The Blue Jays took the season series last year, outscoring the Tigers 35-26. Trey Yesavage gets the start. The Tigers have not set their rotation for the series yet

Game #43 - Tampa Bay Rays (28-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-24)

 

Game #42 - Tampa Bay Rays (28-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-24) - game recap

 

George Springer scored twice and drove in a run in a 7-6 extra innings loss to the Rays

After dropping yesterday's game due to a poor start by ace Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at SS with Lenyn Sosa at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game  Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonny DeLuca doubled scoring Jonathan Aranda
• The Rays added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Cedric Mullins singled scoring Junior Caminero and Ben Williamson
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 4.1IP 9H 3R (all earned) 1BB 1K 86 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the top of the 6th on a wild pitch by Tommy Nance that scored Taylor Wall. Home plate umpire Chris Segal was drilled in the knee by the pitch, but stayed in the game after being checked out by Blue Jays trainer Jose Minstrel
• Shane McClannahan pitching line: 5IP 1H 0R 1BB 7K 80 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the top of the 7th as Ryan Viladed drilled a solo blast off the basing of the second deck in left
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Ernie Clement
• Two batters later, George Springer singled scoring Sanchez
• A batter later, Yohendrick Pinago doubled scoring Brandon Valenzuela and Springer
• A batter later, Pinago scored on a fielding error by Caminero on a ball hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Rays retook the lead in the top of the 10th as Wall singled scoring Mullins
• A batter later, Wall scored on a sac fly by Aranda
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Guerrero Jr. that scored:Springer
• Garrett Clevenger got the last 3 outs for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Rays 7 Blue Jays 6 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 9 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. He was working his way in and out of jams all night. He'll be in the rotation for a while after Eric Lauer was DFA'd and with Jose Berrios suffering a setback of some sort and Shane Bieber still a few weeks away (barring any setbacks).\
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking 5 and striking 7 over the last 5.2 innings. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced and Brayden Fisher 
• Offensively, the bats woke up after being stymied by Shane McClanahan with a 5 run rally in the 6th. Yohendrick Pinago, who barely got off the plane after being opioned back to AAA-ball before being recalled again after Addison Barger hurt himself his first game back, drove in 2 runs, Jesus Sanchez each drove in a run and scored a run and George Springer scored twice and drove in a run.
• Both teams were 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 2-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3 game skid and avoid being swept forthe 3rd time, and 2nd straight time vs. the Rays, this season. Dylan Cease starts against Rays righty Griffin Jax.

Game #42 - Tampa Bay Rays (27-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-23)

 

Game #41 - Tampa Bay Rays (26-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-22)

 

Game #40 - LA Angels (16-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-22) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 6-1 comeback loss to the Angels

First off, happy mother's day to all the ladues that are on JITH. After a blowout win yesterday thanks to a huge 7-run 5th inning, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 2nd sweep of the season. Spencer Myles got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Addison Barger was a late scratch with elbow soreness. Myles Straw was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. George Springer got the complete day off to rest his fractured tor. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lenyn Sosa at 1B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 2nd sweep oof the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Kazuma Okamoto doubled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Spencer Miles piching line: 3IP 2H 0R 0BB 2K 38 pitches (28 for strikes)
• The Angels took the lead in the top of the 5th as Oswald Peraza belted a 2-run jack to the second deck in left; also scoring Nolan Schaunel
• Five batters later, Vaughn Grissom doubled scoring Mike Trout and Zach Neto
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 6th as Jo Adell smashed a solo blast to the second deck to the opposite field in right
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 7.2IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K 103 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Angels added a run in the top of the 9th as Adell hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center
• Final score: Angels 6 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Spencer Miles fired 3 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits while walking none and striking out 2. The Blue Jays should and maybe are trying to stretch Spencer Miles out to be a starter. He did well today and certainly would make fans less nervous every 5th day.
• Then there's the enigma that is Eric Lauer. Three home runs allowed on the day, 4 runs allowed in his first inning of work, 2 runs on the board before recording an out and worst of all 6 balls on his first 7 pitches - including walking a left-handed batter. Lauer also retired eight in a row today, proving he has the ability to get outs at the big league level. Lauer's days could be numbered if the Blue Jays turn Spencer Miles into a starter.
• The offence was Kazuma Okamoto driving in a run in the 1st inning and then managing to load the bases on 3 hits, 2 that never left the infield. Not good enough 
• The Angels were 2-1 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were 0-1 on their lone ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays face the Rays team that swept them a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 12-4. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Rays righty Drew Rasmussen

Game #40 - Los Angeles Angels (15-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-21)

 

Game #39 - LA Angels (15-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (18-21) - game recap

 

Brandon Valenzuela hit a 3-HR in a 14-1 rout over the Angels

After eking out a win thanks to a strong start from Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 game and notch their 5th series win of the season and 1st season series win of the season. Addison Barger was activated off the 10-day IL (he got the start in RF) and Yohendrick Pinago was optioned to AAA-ball. Trey Yesavage got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanches was in LF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 game and notch their 5th series win of the season and 1st season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Andres Gimenez that scored Jesus Sanchez
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 4H 0R 2BB 6K 87 pitches (57 for strikes)\
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Addison Barger
• A batter later, Sanchez singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter after that, Okamoto scored on a throwing error by Angels pitcher Jack Kochanowicz on a ball hit by Daulton Varsho
• A batter later, Ernie Clement singled home Sanchez
• Two batters later, Brandon Valenzuela belted a 3-run jack to the second deck in left; also scoring Varsho and Clement
• Jack Kochanowicz pitching line: 4IP 9H 7R (6 earned) 2BB 0K 84 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Clement whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Three batters later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Valenzuela
• The Angels got one back in the top of the 8th as Adam Frazier doubled scoring Bryce Teodosio
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Sanchez hammered a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• Four batters later, Valenzuela doubled scoring Varsho
• A batter later, Clement scored on a ground out hit by Tyler Heineman
• Two batters later, Davis Schneider singled home Valenzuela 
• Final score: Blue Jays 14 Angels 1

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking 2 and striking out 6. He's been quite inefficient the last 2 starts. Certainly, he is learning how difficult it is to get these big league hitters out that won't chase as much as those in the minor leagues. Yesavage needs to learn to pitch to contact if he want to pitch longer in games. It'll be interesting to see who catches him next since reportedly he likes working with Tyler Heineman, who has been in manager John Schneider's dog house.
• The bullpen had mixed results today with Mason Fluharty, Brayden Fisher and Joe Mantiply combining for 2 strikeouts in three perfect innings. Tommy Nance and Tyler Rogers gave up three hits each and the Angels scored their only run off Rogers. Perhaps there is some overuse issues going on with Rogers, who was virtually unhittable in April. Fluharty was credited with the win.
• It was a team effort offensively with Brandon Valenzuela (3-run HR, 4RBI, 3 runs scored), Jesus Sanchez (2RBI, 3 runs scored, solo HR), Ernie Clement (2RBI, 3 runs scored, solo HR), and Daulton Varsho (2 runs scored) leading the charge
• Every Blue Jays starter reacher base at least once and all but Andres Gimenez and Addison Barger had a hit. Every Blue Jays starter except George Springer either scored a run or drove in a run
• Angels 2B Vaughn Grissom successfully overturned the only ABS challenge today
• The Blue Jays were 8-22 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 2nd sweep of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Angels righty Jose Soriano

Game #39 - Los Angeles Angels (15-24) @ Toronto Blue Jays (17-21)

 

Game #38 - Los Angeles Angels (15-23) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-21)

 

Game #37 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-21) @ Tampa Bay Rays (24-12) - game recap

 

After dropping yesterday's game due to Tyler Rogers blowing the save, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3 game skid and avoid getting swept for the 2nd time this season.  Patrick Corbin got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.  Vlad was back in the lineup at 1b after the complete day off yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF and Yohendrick Pinago was in RF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Lenyn Sosa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Jonny DeLuca doubled scoring Jonathan Aranda
• Two batters later, Chandler Simpson singled home DeLuca
• Shane McClanahan pitching line: 5.2IP 2H 0R 1BB 4K 69 pitches (47 for strikes)
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 1K 61 pitches (37 for strikes)
• The Rays added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a fielder's choice hit by  LeDuca that scored Cedric Mullins.  Ernie Clement was charged with a throwing error on the play 
• Ian Seymour threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score Rays 3 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin fired 5.1 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1. Patrick Corbin continues to consistently give the Blue Jays a chance to win. He pitched his way out of s tough jam in the 1st inning and held the Rays off the scoreboard other than the 4th inning. Given the injury situation with Jose Berrios (who suffered a setback his last rehab start), Max Scherzer (who isn't bouncing back from the forearm strain the way he would like) and Shane Bieber, who might be back in June if no setbacks, Corbin should be in the rotation for a while with the struggling Eric Lauer likely to be the first pitcher to be replaced in the rotation once the injured bodies start coming back. 
• The bullpen gave up an unearned run on a hit and 3 walks while striking out 2 over the last 2.2 innings.  Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced. 
• The feeble offense continues to putter along. They managed just 5 total baserunners today.  Myles Straw got half the hits (2) on the day. Davis c Schneider, a likely candidate to be optioned once Addison Barger comes back, remains ice cold. I think the team is really missing Don Mattingly.
• Ernie Clement successfully overturned the Blue Jays only ABS challenge and Rays catcher Nick Fortes was 2-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open a week long homestand as they take on the Angels.  The Blue jays took the series in LA/Anaheim, outscoring the Angels 12-11. Dylan Cease starts against Angels lefty Reid Detmers

Game #37 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-20) @ Tampa Bay Rays (23-12)

 

Game #36 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-19) @ Tampa Bay Rays (22-12)

 

Game #35 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-19) @ Tampa Bay Rays (22-12) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr,. drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 5-1 loss to the Rays

After dropping the finale of the series yesterday due to a late rally falling short and a bad outing from reliever Brayden Fisher, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Tampa Bay. The Rays won last year's season series 7-6, outscoring the Blue Jays 58-48. Eric Lauer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Daulton Varsho got the half day off as DH with Myles Straw in CF. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Ryan Vilade drilled a 3-run jack to left-center; also scoring Chandler Simpson and Junior Caminero
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Yohendrick Pinago
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4.1IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 2K 61 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Nick Martinez pitching line: 5IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 71 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Rays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 6th as Taylor Walls singled scoring Jonathan Aranda and Ben Williamson
• Bryan Baker got the last out for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Rays 5 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 4 innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. There's no doubt he regrets making the comment about not liking the idea of an opener pitching in front of him. He did himself no favors on that front when he gave up three runs on one swing in the 1st inning to put his team in a 3-0 hole after 1 inning. At this point, he might be asked to be the long man until Shane Bieber returns from injury, but at this point, I'd just release him because he hasn't done enough to demonstrate he can be trusted even in that lower leverage role and the Blue Jays have plenty of lefties in the bullpen at the moment anyway.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs, both charged to Spencer Miles, on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 3 over the last 3.2 innings. None of the relievers was able to retire every batter they faced today, but at least most of the high leverage guys, except maybe Mason Fluharty were not used today.
• Offensively, Vlad drove in the only run on the night with a clutch single in the 3rd inning. They have their opportunities with everyone but Daulton Varsho getting at least a hit, but they weren't able to get the hits with runners in scoring position. Overall, their approach at the plate hasn't been as giood as last year, chasing pitches they weren't a year ago\
• The Rays were 0-1 on ABS challenges and Jesus Sanchez successfully overturned the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and even the series. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Rays righty Drew Rasmussen

Game #35 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-18) @ Tampa Bay Rays (21-12)

 

Game #34 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-18) @ Minnesota Twins (15-20) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto hit a 2-run HR in a 4-3 loss to the Twins

After a huge comeback win over the Twins after plating 8 runs in the 8th inning, the Bklue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 5th series win and 1st season series win of the season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lenyn Sosa at 1B. Yohendrick Pinago was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 5th series win and 1st season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Twins starter Joe Ryan left the game aftter 2 batters, walking one and striking out one on just nine pitches
• The Twins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Victor Caratini singled scoring Trevor Larnach
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 5H 1R (earned) 3BB 6K 82 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Twins added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Luke Keaschall doubled scoring Caratini
• A batter later, Kody Clemens doubled home Keaschall 
• Two batters later, Matt Wallner doubled scoring Clemens
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 9th as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a 2-run blast to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Justin Topa got the last 3 outs for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Twins 4 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4 innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6. It's not ideal that Yesavage was only able to toss 4 innings when the Blue Jays coulds have what amounts to a bullpen game tomorrow with an inconsistent Eric Lauer either getting a traditional start or following an opener. Yesavage battled command issues and got himself into some tough jams today. He was fortunate to get out of the 3rd inning when a ball hit by Luke Keaschall bounced out of play for a ground rule double or that would have been a run against. To be fair, Yesavage is still working himself into form after coming back from an injury to start the season. It's also possible teams are starting to adjust to his stuff. 
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs, all charged to Brayden Fisher, on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3 over the last 4 innings
• Kazuma Okamoto went deep in the 9th inning to get the Blue Jays within a run, but that's as close as they got. Daulton Varsho also had a solid day at the plate. 
• Really odd decision by John Schneider to let Tyler Heineman bat with the bases loaded in the 6th, see him fly out to end the inning on a pitch he should have taken, and then replace him in the bottom half of the inning. He might very well be DFA'd when Alejandro Kirk returns from his broken thumb injury in a few weeks. Brandon Valenzuela has simply outplayed the veteran backup catcher
• In the ouch department, it has to be concerning for the Twins that Joe Ryan pulled himself from the game after 9 pitches with soreness in his elbow. Hopefully the MRI doesn't show a torn UCL. For the Blue Jays, Jesus Sanchez blew a tire on the bases, was looked at by Blue Jays trainer Jose Minstrel but was ok to continue. The Blue Jays can ill afford to lose another player to injury, esprcially with George Springer hobbled with a very sore toe.
• The Blue Jays were 1-2 in ABS challenges and the Twins were 1-1 in ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Tampa Bay. The Rays won the season series last year 7-6, outscoring the Blue Jays 58-48. Eric Lauer starts against Rays righty Nick Martinez

Game #34 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-20)

 

Game #33 - Toronto Blue Jays (16-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-20) - game recap-

 

Brandon Valenzuula hit a 3-run HR in an 11-4 comeback win over the Twins

After rebounding nicely from a tough loss Thursday, the Blue Jays evened the series with Kazuma Okamoto and Yohendrick Pinago driving the offense, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the winning streak to 2 games. Dylan Cease got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was back in the lineup and at SS. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Byron Buxton led off with a solo blast to the opposite field in right
• The Blue jays tied in the top of the 2nd as Lenyn Sosa whacked a solo blast to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Two batters later, Myles Straw belted a solo jack to the second deck in left
• The Twins retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Brooks Lee singled scoring Kody Clemens and Luke Keaschall. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• George Springer left the game in the top of the 3rd after fouling a ball off the toe he fractured.
• The Twins added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Trevor Larnach singled scoring Tristan Gray
• Connor Prielipp pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 91 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 7IP 7H 4R (3 earned) 1BB 7K 106 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 8th as Okamoto singled scoring Ernie Clement
• A batter later Sosa singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• Three batters later, Davis Schneider doubled scoring Daulton Varsho and Sosa
• A batter later, Brandon Valenzuela hammered a 3-run bomb to straightaway center; also scoring Schneider and Straw
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Twins 4

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 7 solid innings, giving up 4 runs, 3 earned on 7 hits while walking  1 and striking out 7. Cease is quickly becoming a very important part of the rotation with his ability to pitch deep into games and getting extra outs. He made the pitches when he had to in order to limit the damage in the jams he encountered. He probably regrets shaking off Brandon Valenzuela first batter he faced with Byron Buxton taking him deep.
• The bullpen threw 2 perfect innings
• The offense exploded in the 8th inning for 8 runs on 5 hits, 2 walks and a fielding error from Twins reliever Anthony Banda. Davis Schneider got a huge monkey off is back with a clutch hit in the 8th, snapping an 0-26 slump. Brandon Valenzuela capped the inning off with a bomb to dead center for 3 runs. Kazuma Okamoto homered for the second straight day.
• Every starter but George Springer and Vlad had a hit. Springer was the only one who neither scored a run nor drove in a run
• Don't be surprised if Springer goes back on the IL. He needs to heal completely before he comes back.
• The Blue Jays were 2-2 in ABS challenges. Davis Schneider had his first unsuccessful challenge of the season. The Twins didn't utilize any ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 4-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games, and notch their 5th series win and 1st season series win of the season. Trey Yesavage starts against Twins righty Joe Ryan.

Game #33 - Toronto Blue Jays (15-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-19)

 

Game #32 - Toronto Blue Jays (15-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-19) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto hit a pair of home runs and drove in 3 runs in a 7-3 win over the Twins

After a loss yesterday from an uncharacteristically bad start by Kevin Gausman and a non-existent offense, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 4th season series loss of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Lenyn Sosa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 4th season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd on a fielder's choice hit by Yohendrick Pinago that scored Daulton Varsho and Lenyn Sosa. Twins 1B Josh Bell was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• The Twins tied it in the bottom of the 3rd as Byron Buxton whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Brooks Lee
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 4th as Kazuma Okamoto hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Three batters later, Pinago singled scoring Sosa
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Okamoto smacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Simeon Woods Richardson pitching line: 4.2IP 9H 6R (4 earned) 1BB 2K 88 pitches (60 for strikes)
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 5.1IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 79 pitches (53 for strikes)\
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Pinago singled home Okamoto
• The Twins got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Ryan Jeffers that scored Lee
• Final score Blue Jays 7 Twins 3

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin threw 5.1 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. He retired 6 of the first 7 batters he faced and, for the most part, he was able to pitch his way out of the jams he got into. If Corbin keeps pitching like thism he'll make the decision  difficult when Shane Bieber is ready to make his 2026 regular season debut. If he has a better attitude than Lauer, he may replace Lauer as the long man out of the bullpen
• Speaking of the bullpen, Jeff Hoffman is still a work in progress. He got himself into a bases loaded jam after giving up 3 hits, but managed to hold it to a run on a sac fly. Tyler Rogers is still ridiculously dominant and is making an early case to be the reliever of the year. Louis Varland may make fans as nervous as Jeff Hoffman did in the closer role.
• Offensively, Kazuma Okamoto is making the fans forget about letting Bo Bichette walk in free agency, Okamoto homered twice and drove in 3 runs and scored 3 runs. Yohendrick Pinago would have had 4RBI if not for a throwing error in the 2nd inning. Good hitting is contagious and the offense is slowly looking like the one thar came inches from winning the Blue Jays 3rd world series 6 months ago.
• Twins catcher Victor Saratini was 3-3 on ABS challenges (overall, the Twins were 3-2). Tyler Heineman was unsuccessful in the Blue Jays lone ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games. Dylan Cease starts against Twins lefty Connor Prielipp

Game #32 - Toronto Blue Jays (14-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-18)

 

Game #32 - Toronto Blue Jays (14-17) @ Minnesota Twins (14-18) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a solo home run in a 7-1 comeback loss to the Twins

After finishing off a floundering Red Sox team yesterday thanks to an all around team effort, the Blue Jays hit the road for their first 4-game series of the season in Minnesota. The Twins won the series in Toronto a couple of weeks back, outscoring the Blue Jays 19-16. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH after being activated off the IL yesterday. Yohendrick Pinango was in LF. 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 4th as Daulton Varsho hammered a solo bomb to right
• The Twins took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Ryan Jeffers belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Trevor Larnach
• The Twins added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Byron Buxton whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Four batters later, Austin Martin singled scoring Larnach
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 94 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Bailey Ober pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 2K 88 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Twins added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Josh Bell singled scoring Jeffers and Buxton
• Three batters later, Bell scored on a sac fly by Luke Keaschall
• Final score: Twins 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• The two starters had very similar pitching lines with both Gausman and Ober giving up 4 hits, walking 2 batters and striking out 2. The difference was two of the hits against Gausman went over the wall for 3 runs (Ober was also taken deep, but for just one run). Ober made it through 6 innings and Tommy Nance needed to get the last out of the 6th inning. Gausman threw a few more pitches (94 while Ober needed only 88 pitches to get 18 outs). Gausman also threw an extra pitch, 58 for strikes. You can tell when Gausman isn't pitching with his best stuff when the strikeout count is low.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 2 hits and a walk over the last 2.1 innings. All three runs against were charged to Mason Fluharty, who wasn't helped by the defense that committed 2 errors in the inning. Tommy Nance and Joe Mantiply both retired every batter they faced with Nance striking out 3 batters.
• Varsho went deep and that was abour it for the offense. George Springer had a third of the Blue Jays hits, singling twice.
• The Twins were 1-1 in ABS challenges and Brandon Valenzuela lost the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 5th season series loss of the season. Patrick Corbin starts against Twins righty Simeon Woods Richardson.

Game #31 - Toronto Blue Jays (14-16) @ Minnesota Twins (13-18)

 

Game #31 - Boston Red Sox (12-19) Blue Jays (14-16) - game recap

After eking out a victory thanks to some outstanding work from Trey Yesavage and the bullpen with Vlad and Kazuma Okamoto providing the offense with some clutch hitting, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 4th series win of the season. George Springer was activated off the 10-day IL and Eloy Jimenez was DFA'd. Eric Lauer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Yohendrick Pinango served as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 4th series win of the season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Willson Contreras belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Kazuma Okamoto  singled scoring Brandon Valenzuela and Jesus Sanchez 
• Two batters later, Yohendrick Pinango singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Okamoto was thrown out at home on the play. 
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 4th as Ernie Clement smacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Valenzuela
• Brayan Bello pitching line: 3.2IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 63 pitches (40 for strikes)
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4.1IP 5H 1R (all earned) 1BB 1K 68 pitches (45 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as George Springer scoring Guerrero Jr 
• A batter later, Daulton Varsho scored on a sac fly by Straw
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Valenzuela hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Final score Blue Jays 8 Red Sox 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 4.1 innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. He needs to buy the defense dinner because they made a lot of plays to ball him out.  The Bosox hit a lot of balls hard but the fielders were in position for the most part. The question is whether he'll even have a role as a long man once everyone is back and healthy. Patrick Corbin has outpitched him and the Blue Jays won't have more than 3 lefties in the bullpen against teams who have a lot of left handed bats or switch hitters they'll want to turn around at key points in the ball game.  Not to mention, Lauer didn't exactly do himself any favors by complaining post game about having an opener pitch in front of him.
• The bullpen held the Red Sox to 4 hits and a walk over the last 4.2 innings.  Nice effort by Spencer Miles to pitch the last 2 innings and save Mason Fluharty for next game. Brayden Fisher also deserves a shoutout for escaping the jam Lauer got himself into in the 5th inning
• It was a team effort again offensively with every starter but Andres Gimenez reaching base at least once and all but Gimenez, Daulton Varsho and Myles Straw getting a hit. Nice to see George Springer come off the bench and IL and come through with a base hit right away
• Brandon Valenzuela successfully challenged three ABS calls today
• The Blue jays were 4-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road where they will begin their first 4- game series of the season in Minnesota. The Twins won the series in Toronto a couple of weeks back, outscoring the Blue Jays 19-16. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Twins righty Bailey Ober.

Game #30 - Boston Red Sox (12-18) v. Toronto Blue Jays (13-16)

 

Game #29 - Boston Red Sox (12-18) @ Toronto Blue Jays (13-16) - game recap

 

Trey Yesavage fired 5.1 shutout innings in his 2026 regular season debut to lead the Blue Jays to a 3-0 shutout win over the Red Sox

After dropping yesterday's game due to an utter lack of offense, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season. Trey Yesavage was activated from the 15-day IL and righty Chase Lee was optioned to AAA-ball. Yesavage got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Myles Straw was in RF. Andres Gimenez was back in the lineup  and at SS after a couple of days off to rest soreness. Ernie Clement was back at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Andres Gimenez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Myles Straw
• Mason Tolle pitching line: 4.2IP 3H 3R (all earned) 4BB 4K 68 pitches (42 for strikes)
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 0R 0BB 3K 74 pitches (50 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a perfect 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Red Sox 0

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage was excellent in his season debut, firing 5.1 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking none and striking out 3. Just a fantastic effort from the rookie phenom, who played in 4 different minor league tiers and the majors last season. Yesavage's season didn't start until tonight due to a shoulder impingement suffered in spring training. There was concern about his stats in the rehab start, but that was moot. He looked fantastic out there. He probably could have completed the 6th inning, but manager John Schneider wanted him to end on a good note and not push his pitch count much higher.
• The bullpen was excellent as well, giving up just a walk and striking out 6 over the last 3.2 innings. Jeff Hoffman and Louis Varland were dominant and Tyler Rogers remains unhittable.
• Offensively, Vlad (run scored, RBI) and Kazuma Okamoto (2-run single) did the damage.
• Potential injury watch: Vlad was drilled in the forearm by a pitch. He stayed in the game, but could be sat if too sore tomorrow
• There were no ABS challenges today.
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 4th series win of the season. The Blue Jays haven't announced a starter, but Eric Lauer will either get the bulk of the innings or make a spot start. The Red Sox will counter with righty Brayan Bello

Game #29 - Boston Red Sox (12-17) v. Toronto Blue Jays (12-16)

Game #28 - Boston Red Sox (12-17) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-16) - game recap

Daulton Varsho hit a double in the 9th inning, one of just three players to reach base in a 5-0 shutout loss to the Red Sox

 

After a rally for the second straight day thanks to Jesus Sanchez going deep, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the winning streak to 3 games as they welcomed the Red Sox to town. The Blue Jays won the season series 8-5 last year, but the Red Sox outscored the Blue Jays 56-53. Max Scherzer was placed on the 15 day IL with right forearm tendinities and left ankle inflammation. Righty Chase Lee was recalled from AAA-ball. Dylan Cease got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH last night (Eloy Jimenez served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Lenyn Sosa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays increase the win streak to 3 games? Here is  tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Red Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Marcelo Mayer singled scoring Wilson Contreras
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 5th as Roman Anthony singled scoring Jarren Duran
• A batter later, Wilyer Abreu doubled home Contreras 
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 5.2IP 7H 4R (all earned) 3BB 5K 107 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Red Sox added a run in the top of the 8th as Carlos Narvaez whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Ranger Suarez pitching line: 8IP 1H 0R 1BB 10 105 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Red Sox 5 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Dylan Cease battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. Not his best outing as a Blue Jay. He retired 9 of the first 10 batters before the Red Sox started getting to him bit by bit.
• The bullpen gave upa run on 2 hits while walking one and striking out 3 over the last 3.1 innings. Lefty Joe Mantiply got unlucky not to get the last batter he faced or he would have retired every batter he faced.
• The offence today: Davis Schneider walk immediately erased by an MK special double play, double by Jesus Sanchez on a nice inside out swing to lead off the 6th to break up the no-hitter, and a 2-out double by pinch hitter Daulton Varsho that basically delayed the end of the game a few piches.
• The Blue Jays were 3-1 on 4 ABS challenges and the Red Sox were 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season. Trey Yesavage makes his season debut after missing the first month of the season with a shoulder impingement. The Red Sox will counter with lefty Payton Tolle

Game #28 - Boston Red Sox (11-17) v. Toronto Blue Jays (12-15)

 

Game #27 - Cleveland Guardians (15-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-15) - game recap

 

Jesus Sanchez hit a go-ahead 2-run HR in the 6th inning to lead the Blue Jays to a 4-2 victory over the Guardians

After hanging on for a comeback win yesterday on the strength of a 6th inning rally by the bats, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 3rd series win of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Yohendrick Piñango was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at SS with Davis Schneider at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and 3 series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Ernie Clement
• A batter later, Daulton Varsho scored on a sac fly by Jesus Sanchez
• The Guardians got one back in the top of the 5th as Brayan Rocchio singled scoring Juan Brito
• Two batters later, Angel Martinez doubled scoring Austin Hedges
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 84 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Sanchez whacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Slade Cecconi pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 5K 90 pitches (60 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Guardians 2

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin battled through 4.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. For the most part, he was able to make pitches when he had to and had an out streak of 6. It's likely Corbin will get to remain in the rotation as Eric Lauer and Max Scherzer have struggled worse than him.
• The bullpen gave up 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 6 in 4.1 scoreless innings. Jeff Hoffman made his first appearance since losing his role as the closer and walked a batter. Tyler Rogers, who has been absolutely lights out and should be the closer IMO, retired every batter he faced
• Jesus Sanchez did the damage offensively (3RBI, including the go-ahead 2-run HR) and is forcing the Blue Jays to make a tough choice when the position players start coming off the IL. Vlad, who notched his 1000th career MLB game Friday, came through with an RBI and run scored today.
• The Blue Jays were 2-2 on ABS challenges and the Guardians were 1-2. The Guardians also lost their regular challenge on a stolen base where the out call was upheld
• The Blue Jays were 2-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays meet their division rivals, the Boston Red Sox for the first time this season. The Blue Jays won the season series 8-5 last year, but the Red Sox outscored the Blue Jays 56-53. Dylan Cease got the start against Red Sox lefty Ranger Suarez

Game #27 - Cleveland Guardians (15-13) v. Toronto Blue Jays (11-15)

 

Game #26 - Cleveland Guardians (15-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (11-15) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6.2 strong innings in a 5-3 win over the Guardians

After a loss yesterday due to a horrible start from Max Scherzer, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season. Nathan Lukes was placed on the 10-day IL with a hamstring strain.Yoendrick Pinago was selected to the MLB roster. Yimi Garcia was transferred to the 60-day IL. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF.  Eloy Jimenez served as DH. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 6th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd on a ground out hit by Brayan Rocchio that scored Juan Brito
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 4th as Kazuma Okamoto anihiliated a solo bomb to straightaway center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Andres Gimenez doubled scoring Okamoto and Varsho
• Joey Cantillo pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 89 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Gaurdians got one back in the top of the 7th as David Fry whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 0BB 3K 91 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a bases loaded walk to Okamoto that forced in Myles Straw
• The Guardians got one back in the top of the 9th as Kyle Manzardo doubled scoring Rhys Hoskins
• Louis Varland got the last 3 outs for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Guardians 3

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 6.2 strong innings giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 3. Gausman gave the Blue Jays some much needed length, pitching into the 7th, after a couple of short outings that taxed the bullpen. He maybe didn't have his best stuff working since he wasn't racking up the strikeouts like he usually does, but inducing contact might have given him a few extra batters on the day. Gausman should be in the conversation for Cy Young at the end of the season.
• Jeff Hoffman must have been sitting in that bullpen thinking that the closer job isn't so easy. Louis Varland barely got the save, getting fortunate just one run scored on the double hit by Kyle Manzardo. He then won an 8-pitch battle against Bo Naylor and then finished Brayan Rocchio with a booming 98MPH fastball. To me, the best pitcher in the bullpen, and that is Tyler Rogers, should be the closer. He has such command  of his pitches and induces soft contact time and time again. Mason Fluharty, Varland, Hoffman and Brayden Fisher are your setup guys, order determined by the situation.
• The offense rallied in the 6th for 3 runs, including a 2-run double for the 2nd straight day by Andres Gimenez. Kazuma Okamoto is starting to look very comfortable at the plate and he scored twice, including absolutely crushing a home run to the moon!
• Every Blue Jays starter except Eloy Jimenez reached base at least once and all but Jimenez and Davis Schneider had a hit
• The Guardians were 2-1 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were 2-2.
• The Blue Jays were 3-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 3rd series win of the season. Patrick Corbin starts against Guardians righty Slade Cecconi