Game #151 - Detroit Tigers (72-77) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-75) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in 3 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 7-3 win over the Orioles

After a loss due to a bad start from Max Scherzer the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2 game skid and avoid their 19th series loss of the season. On another bullpen day, Spencer Miles got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Rudy Martin Jr. was in LF. Josh Smith got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2 game skid and avoid their 19th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Brett Bateman 
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Guerrero Jr
• Spencer Miles pitching line: 2IP 1H 0R 2BB 5K 44 pitches (30 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Bateman belted a solo jack to right-center 
• Three batters later, Kirk smacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring George Springer
• Kyle Bradish pitching line: 3IP 8H 5R (all earned) 2BB 2K 56 pitches (37 for strikes)
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 4th on a throwing error by Kazuma Okamoto on a ball hit by Christian Encarnacion-Strand that scored Gunnar Henderson
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring Josh Smith
• The Orioles got one back in the top the 7th as Pete Alonso drilled a 2-run bomb off the foul pole in left; also scoring Yohel Pozo
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Ernie Clement that scored Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Orioles 3

My Take:

• For the umpteenth time this season, it was a bullpen day for the Blue Jays with Spencer Miles serving as the opener. Miles pitched the first 2 innings, giving up a hit, walking 2 and striking out 5. Next season (or when baseball returns after the expected lengthy lockout/strike over a salary cap) Miles should be stretched out to be a starter. The Blue Jays need to have at least 6 or 7 pitchers with the capability to handle 80-100 pitches. Even if they get a spot start every 2-3 weeks where a regular is skipped, it'll allow the Blue Jays to have a fall back in case of injury or poor performance. It's not sustainable to have a bullpen day every 5 days or twice, as is the case now with Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber both on the IL.
• The rest of the bullpen gave up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over the last 7 innings. Joe Mantiply, Tyler Rogers and Louis Varland retired every batter they faced. Spencer Arrightetti was credited with the win.
• The offense jumped all over Orioles starter Kyle Bradish with Alejandro Kirk knocking in 3 runs (including a 2-run HR, Vlad and Brett Bateman both scoring twice and driving in a run (Bateman also went deep off Bradish), and Ernie Clement and Andres Gimenez each knocking in a run.
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Rudy Martin Jr. had a hit
• The Orioles were 2-1 on ABS challenges and Alejandro Kirk was 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays are back within a game of the Guardians of the 3rd WC spot after the Guardians lost today. The Rangers, who play later tonight in Arizona, are 2.5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot, but will be 2 games back if they win or 3 games back if they lose. The Orioles are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the Twins, who beat the Guardians, are  4.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The only other teams with an outside chance of a WC berth are the Tigers (won today) and the Mariners (play the A's later tonight) who are both 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays look to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 25th series win of the season. Ace Dylan Cease starts against Orioles lefty Trevor Rogers

Game #149 Baltimore Orioles (72-76) v. Toronto Blue Jays (73-75)

 

Game #148 - Balrimore Orioles (72-76) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-75) - game recap

 

Brett Bateman hit a 2-run HR, the first HR of his career, in s 7-4 loss to the Orioles

After an off-day/travel-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week-long home stand as they welcome the Orioles as they opened the first of six crucial games against the orange birds. The Blue Jays have won 4 of the first 7 games of the season series, but the Orioles have outscored the Blue Jays 42-33. Jesus Sanchez was DFA'd and Rudy Martin Jr. was added to the MLB roster. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH after a day off Wednesday. Josh Smith was in LF, Brett Bateman was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend and second to last homestand of the season with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Dylan Beavers led off the game with a solo blast to right
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 2nd as Heston Kjerstad singled scoring Gunnar Henderson
• A batter later, Colton Cowser doubled scoring Samuel Basallo and Christian Encarnacion-Strand
• A batter after that, Beavers singled scoring Kjerstad and Cowser
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 7H 6R (all earned) 1BB 3K 83 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th on a ground out by Andres Gimenez that scored Nathan Lukes
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 5K 95 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 7th as Coby Mayo belted a solo jack to left
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 9th as Brett Bateman hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Rico Garcia got the last out for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Orioles 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Tonight's start for veteran righty Max Scherzer gave up a home run to the first batter of the game. In the 2nd inning, the Orioles tacked on 5 more runs on 6 consecutive hits. He settled down after that and retired 12 of the last 13 batters he faced. The Blue Jays need Scherzer to pitch like it's 2019 when he was a key part of the Nationals world series win.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 9 over the last 4 innings. Brendon Little was the only reliever to retired every batter he faced
• Offensively, Kazuma Okamoto continues to make a strong case for rookie of the year, going deep for the 31st time this season. Brett Bateman hit the first long ball of his career in the 9th to put the Blue Jays within 3 runs, but that was as close as they would come. Vlad cannot get picked 1st base like that. Hr needs to pay attention to the 1st baseman behind him, who was sneaking over to cover the bag and receive the bullet from catcher Samuel Basallo. Ernie Clement better stop using other teammates bats - not only is it not making him a better hitter, but he's liable to break a bat. And for goodness sake, burn that home run jacket, the tean just looks goofy/unserious/unprofessional/cocky when they are celebrating a home run being down several runs
• The Blue Jays were 1-2 on ABS challenges and Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo was 2-2 on ABS challengee
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays dropped a full game and are now 2 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers (leading their game) are 2.5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot for the moment but will move into a tie with the Blue Jays and also be 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. We're getting close to the WC race being a 3-team race, but the Twins (lost today) and Mariners (currently losing tonight's game) are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners will fall to 6 games back of the 3rd WC spot, putting a pretty big dagger in their playoff hopes. It's entirely possible both teams in the 2025 ALCS (Blue Jays and Mariners. This would be the 2nd time in 3 years that happened with the Guardians and Yankees missing the playoffs in 2025 after playing each other in the 2024 ALCS
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2 game skid and avoid their 19th series loss of the sesason. It will be a bullpen day with Spencer Arrighetti either starting or pitching in a bulk role. The Orioles will counter with righty Kyle Bradish

Game #148 Baltimore Orioles (71-76) v. Toronto Blue Jays (73-74)

Game #147 - Toronto Blue Jays (73-74) @ Athletics (59-88) - game recap

After a huge win yesterday thanks to 7 strong innings from Jose Soriano and a clutch base hit off the bat of Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the winning streak to 2 games and notch their 22nd series win of the season. On yet another bullpen day, Brayden Fisher got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Charles McAdoo was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Brett Bateman was in RF. Alejandro Kirk got the half day off as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 22nd series win of the season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• Brayden Fisher pitching line: 1IP 0H 0H 0BB 1K 18 pitches (12 for strikes)
• The A's opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Henry Bolte belted a solo jack to left-center 
• The A's added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Tommy white scored on a wild pitch by Micheal Lorenzen
• Brady Basso pitching line: 4IP 3H 0R 2BB 4K 68 pitches (41 for strikes)
• Elvis Alvarado threw a scoreless 9th for his 6th save of the season. 
• Final score: A's 2 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher threw a perfect 1st on yet another bullpen day.  It is very likely that the Blue Jays are going to end 2026 the way they started it  - with at least 1 bullpen day on the final week of the season. Trey Yesavage is trying to target the last week of the season to come off the IL, but he's coming off knee surgery and won't have the time to build back up to a starters capacity. Shane Bieber might be able to provide a bit more length but is likely done for the seaon. Cody Ponce won't be ready to return from ACL surgery unless the Blue jays go on another deep playoff run.  The bullpen is already running on fumes and you want to get them some rest so they can be effective in the playoffs. The Blue Jays may not have the luxury to do that.
• The bullpen gave up a further 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. Don't be surprised if Michael Lorenzen is optioned or DFA'd on Friday.  The Blue Jays can't afford to drop any games as they chase a wild card spot. Also not sure why Tyler Rogers and Louis Varland pitched today when the series against the Orioles is looming large and you want your top relievers well rested and at their best against a team that will no doubt relish deadline a huge blow to a division rivals playoff chances. 
• The offense didn't do much. The lack of speed of Alejandro Kirk stopped them from tying the game in the top of the 4th. Vlad killed 2 potential rallies with ground outs to end the inning. The Blue jays need Vlad to get his bat going and fast. Likewise for George Springer and Ernie Clement and the other bats in the lineup that have been inconsistent this season
• The Blue Jays were a perfect 3-3 on ABS challenge. The A's did not attempt an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays dropped a half game and sit 1.5 games back of the Guardians, who have the opportunity to end the night with a 2 game cushion over the blue Jays if they beat Baltimore, who could fall to 5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot with a loss. The Twins (lost today) are 5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and will gain or drop a half game depending on what the Guardians do tonight. The Rangers (lost today) are also 1.5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot and will gain or drop a half game depending on what the Guardians do tonight.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open a crucial week long home stand starting Friday against the Orioles. The Blue jays have won 4 of the first 7 games in the season series, but the Orioles have outscored the Blue Jays 42-33. Chris Bassitt starts for the Orioles.  The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet, but Max Scherzer could very well get the nod.

Game #146 Toronto Blue Jays (73-73) @ Athletics (58-88)

Game #146 Toronto Blue Jays (72-73) @ Athletics (58-87)

 

Game #145 Toronto Blue Jays (72-72) @ Athletics (57-87)

 

Game #144 - Toronto Blue Jays (72-72) @ Kansas City Royals (64-80) - game recap

 

Josh Smith hit a solo HR in a 6-1 loss to the Royals 

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After a huge win thanks to a clutch base hit off the bat of Kazuma Okamoto, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their second series sweep of the season and notch their 21st season series win of the season. Spencer Arrighetti got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Sean Keys at 1B. Josh Smith got the start at 2B.. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their second series sweep of the season and notch their 21st season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vinnie Pasquantino belted a 3-run jack to right-center; slso scoring John Rave and Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Salvador Perez whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Witt Jr.
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 5th as Nick Loftin singled scoring Pasquantino
• Spencer Arrighetti pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 6R (all earned) 3BB 3K 91 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Josh Smith smacked a solo blast to right
• Randy Dobnak pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 3K 83 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Final score: Royals 6 Blue Jays 1

My Take:-

• Spencer Arrighetti battled through 4.2 innings, giving up 6 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3. He was taken deep 3 times. At least he was able to pitch into the 5th inning to somewhat save the bullpen. No chance he's a part of any postseason rotation or even a bullpen arm.
• The bullpen threw 3.1 scoreless innings, givng up a hit, walking 4 and striking out 5. Nice to see Ricky Tiedemann finally making it to the big leagues after fighting his body to stay healthy for several seasons. He's got a few kinks to work out, but he is showing he can get big-league hitters out. He just needs to work on his command a bit.
• Offensively, Josh Smith broke the shutout bid by going deep to right. Bats were back to being ice cold today
• The Blue Jays were 3-1 on ABS challenges and the Royals were 1-1 on ABS challenges.
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position.
• In terms of the wild card race, the Guardians are back to being in sole possession of the 3rd WC spot (with the Blue Jays a game back) after their walk-off win today. The Rangers, who are leading their game against the Rays, are 2.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and will gain a half game if they hold on and win and drop a half game if they lose. The Orioles (lost today) are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins (play the White Sox later today) are also 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot for the moment, but will gain a  half game with a win and drop a half game if they lose. The Mariners (leading their game) are 6.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot for the moment and will gain a half game if they hold on and win and drop a half game if they lose.
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip against the Athletics. The Blue Jay swept the Athletics in Toronto to open the 2026 series, outscoring the A's 16-11. Ace Dylan Cease starts against A's lefty Jacob Lopez.

Game #144 Toronto Blue Jays (72-71) @ Kansas City Royals (63-80)

 

Game #143 - Toronto Blue Jays (72-71) @ Kansas City Royals (63-80) - game recap

Kazuma Okamoto drove in a pair of runs as the Blue Jays hung on to edge the Royals 4-3

 

After a huge win over the Royals thanks to some nice work from the bullpen after Jameson Taillon, who was put right back on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation, left the game after 2 innings, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 21st series win of the season. Ricky Tiedemann was recalled from AAA-ball. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could theBlue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 21st series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Royals 3B Josh Rojas was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• A batter later, Nathan Lukes singled home Kirk 
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Jac Caglianone singled scoring Carter Jensen
• A batter later, Salvador Perez singled scoring Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Kazuma Okamoto doubled scoring Lukes. Okamoto was thrown out at 3B trying to stretch the double into a triple
• The Royals tied it in the bottom of the 4th as John Rave whacked a solo blast to right
• Seth Lugo pitching line: 5IP 8H 3R (all earned 2BB 4K 95 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 2K 76 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 7th as Okamoto singled scoring George Springer
• Louis Varland threw a perfect 9th for his 33rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Royals 3

My Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. The opening inning snowballed on Scherzer after he hit the first batter he faced on his first pitch of the game and the Royals erased the 2-run lead the offense gave him before he took to the mound. He did settle down after that and retired 15 of the last 17 batters he faced. At this point, I'd put Scherzer in the plsyoff rotation.
• The bullpen held the Royals to 2 hits and a walk whike striking out 3 over the last 3.1 innings. Mason Fluharty was credited with the win. Paul Sewald and Louis Varland both retired every batter e faced. Varland coulds be a dark horse in the Cy Young voting. He's had a phenomenol season so far and has been virtually lights out in save opportunities.
• For the second day in a row, the offense jumpred all over the starting pitcher. Kazuma Okamoto (2RBI) and Nathan Lukes (RBI, run scored) carried the day 
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but George Springer had a hit
• The Blue Jays were unsuccessful on both ABS challenges and the Royals were unsucceful on their lone ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-11 with runners in scoring position
• Anotheer huge accomplishment: getting above .500 for the first time since April 3rd.
• In terms of the wild card race, with the win, the Blue Jays moved into possession of the 3rd WC spot thanks to the Guardians also losing and the Blue Jays holding the tiebreaker over the Guardians after winning the season series against them. The Rangers (lost today)  are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (lost today) are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins (won today) are 3.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot for the moment, but are losing to the A's and will drop a half game if the score remains the same or gain a half game if they come back and win. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 5 games, complete their second series sweep of the season and notch their 11th season series win of the season. It will be an all-too familiar bullpwn game with Spencer Arrighetti getting the start. The Royals will counter with righty Randy Dobnak.

Game #143 Toronto Blue Jays (71-71) @ Kansas City Royals (63-79)

 

Game #142 - Toronto Blue Jays (71-71) @ Kansas City Royals (63-79) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a pair of runs and scored a run in a 9-2 victory over the Royals

After a huge win yesterday over the Guardians thanks to a 4-run 5th inning rally to secure the tiebreaker over the Guardians, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games as they continued the road trip in Kansas City. The Royals won the series in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-8. Jameson Taillon was activated off the 15-day IL (and got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate) and Ricky Tiedemann was optioned to AAA-ball. Myles Straw was in LF. Kazuma Okamoto was back in the lineup at the hot corner after the complete day off yesterday, Ernie Clement was at SS and Charles McAdoo was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game  Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Alejandro Kirk single scoring Brett Bateman
• A batter later, Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr,
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement doubled scoring Kirk and Charles McAdoo
• The Royals  got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bobby Witt Jr. whacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Kirk doubled scoring Myles Staw
• Jameson Taillon pitching line: 2IP 2H 1R (earned) 0BB 29 pitches (18 for strikes)
• Daniel Lynch IV pitching line: 5IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 0K 70 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th on a sac bunt by Straw that scored Clement
• Two batters later, George Springer doubled scoring Nathan Lukes and Bateman
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Sean Keys hammered a solo bomb to right
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Vinnie Pasquantino belted a solo jack to right
• Final score: Blue Jays  9 Royals 2

My Take:

• Unforttunate start for Jameson Taillon who looks like he's headed right back on the IL after reinjuring his right elbow 29 pitches into his start tonight, His season is all but over, and maybe should have been over before tonight, or perhaps he should have done one more rehab game before being activated. It's insane that a whole roster (and then some) has been on the IL. Medical team needs to be reviewed in the off-season
• The bullpwn gave up a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 ov.r the last 7 innings. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays ad a 4-run rally in the 1st and a 3-run rally in the 2nd. George Springer (2 RBI) Ernie Clement (2RBI, run scored), Alejandro Kirk (2RBI, run scored) snd Brett Batemsn (2 runs scored) led the way. Nice to see a team effort offensively.
• Both teams were a perfect 2-2 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 6-13 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays are a game back of the Guardans, who swept the double header vs. the Tigers today, for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers (lost today) are 1.5 gsmes back of the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (lost today) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners, who are in s 5-5 tie with the A's in their game tonight, are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot, and will gain a half game if they win and lose a hsalf game if they lose. Finally, the Twins (lost tonight) are 4.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jaus try to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 22nd series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #142 Toronto Blue Jays (70-71) @ Kansas City Royals (63-78)

 

Game #141 - Toronto Blue Jays (70-71) @ Cleveland Guardians (70-70) - game recap

 

After a huge shutout win yesterday thanks to a 5RBI effort from Vlad and 6 shutout innings from Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games, notch their 21st series win of the season and 9th seaon series win of the season and nab the tiebreaker over Cleveland by winning the season series. Jose Soriano got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF. Josh Smith was at the hot corner and Sean Keys served as DH. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games, notch their 21st series win of the season and 9th seaon series win of the season and nab the tiebreaker over Cleveland by winning the season series? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Angel Genao singled scoring Jo Adell 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 4th as Sean Keys singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 5th as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring Brandon Valenzuela and Ernie Clement
• A batter later, Brett Bateman scored on a sac fly by Guerrero Jr.
• A batter after that, Jesus Sanchez singled scoring Lukes
• Tanner Bibee pitching line: 4IP 4H 5R (all earned) 5BB 4K 89 pitched (49 for strikes)
• The Guardians got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Austin Hedges singled scoring Adell and Genao
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 3BB 2K 98 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of i the 9th as Clement singled scoring Josh Smith
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 32nd save of the season. 
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Guardians 3

My Take:

• Jose Soriano battled through 4.2 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hours while walking 3 and striking out 2. Not the most efficient start, but he limited the damage on the scoreboard for the most pari. Soriano has emerged as a solid trade deadline pickup by the Blue Jays and will be a great addition to a postseason rotation .
• The bullpen threw 4.1 scoreless innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking out 4. Spencer Miles, who retired every batter he faced, was credited with the win. Louis Varland, who has a shot at becoming the second Blue Jays pitcher with at least 40 saves (there aren't enough games remaining for Varland to challenge Duane Ward&, who notched 45 saves in 1993), locked down his 32 save of the season. He should get another 5-8 chances at saves given the number of games left and strength of the remaining schedule. You figure the team will make sure he is available in at least 2 games in the important series left in the season: vs the Tigers, vs.  The Rangers, vs the Orioles x2..
• Offensively, a 4-run rally in the 5th carried the day. Nathan Lukes (2RBI, run scored), Ernie Clement (RBI, run scored). It feels like the offense has rediscovered the attitude that they are never out of games.  
• Key stat of the day: the Blue Jays notched their 32nd comeback win of the season today.  Last year, the Blue Jays had 49 comeback win. The 2 world series teams had 40 and 44 comeback wins. The 1987 team, who infamously misses out on the playoffs on the very last day off the season, has the record of 50 comeback wins in a season. 
• The Blue jays were 5-1 on ABS challenges. The Guardians did not attempt an ABS challenge. 
• The Blue jays were 5-14 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, this win over the Guardians was huge for more than one reason. First, the Blue Jays are just a half game behind the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot.  Second, and more importantly, the Blue Jays secured the tiebreaker with the season series win, meaning if the Guardians and Blue Jays finish the season with the same record, the Blue Jays would make the playoffs. For the moment, the Rangers and Orioles are a game back but both could be tied with the Blue Jays and also be a half game back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers have the tie breaker over the Blue jays in the event the two teams are tied for the 3rd WC spot after sweeping the Blue Jays in Toronto at the end of June.  The idle Twins are 3 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot and the Mariners, who take on the A's later tonight, are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot, but would gain a half game with a win. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Kansas City, where they will try to exact some revenge on a Royals team that took the series in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-8. Jameson Taillon is expected to come off the 15-day IL to start for the Blue Jays. The Royals will counter with lefty Daniel Lynch IV.

Game #141 Toronto Blue Jays (69-71) @ Cleveland Guardians (70-69)

 

Game #140 - Toronto Blue Jays (69-71) @ Cleveland Guardians (70-69) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero had 5 RBI, including a 3-run HR and finished a triple shy pf the cycle in an 11-0 shutout win over the Guardians

After dropping yesterday's opening game against the Guardians thanks to nothing from the offense and the bullpen not throwing a shutout, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 20th series loss of the season. Ace Dylan Cease got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  The rest of the lineup was the same as last night. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 20th series loss of the season?  Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr.  doubled scoring Brett Bateman
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 2nd on a fielder's choice hit by George Springer that scored Andres Gimenez and Myles Straw. Guardians SS Angel Genao was charged with a throwing error on the play
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. hammered a 3-run bomb to left; also scoring Bateman and Springer
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Straw doubled scoring Ernie Clement 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Springer doubled scoring Straw
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bateman
• Joey Cantillo pitching line: 5.1IP 9H 9R (4 earned) 2BB 6K 102 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 0BB 4K 83 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Josh Smith belted a solo jack to right-center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Sean Keys
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Guardians 0 

My Take:

• Dylan Cease threw 6 shutout innings, scattering 4 hits, walking none and striking out 4. Maybe a bit of a surprise they pulled him with so few pitches thrown, especially a day after the bullpen day.i would have let Cease go one more inning - he still likely would have been under a hundred pitches and there would be more flexibility the remainder of the bullpen on terms of availability in the bullpen. 
• The bullpen threw 3 scoreless inningsb, giving up 2 hits, walking none and striking out five. Brendon Little and Paul Sewald retired every batter they faced. The best part about the score: Louis Varland, Mason Fluharty and Tyler Rogers will be fully rested for the big game tomorrow.
• The offense, led by Vlad (5RBI, including a 3-run HR and finished a triple shy of the cycle), Myles Straw (2 runs scored, RBI), George Springer (run scored RBI) and Josh Smith (solo HR). They even got to face a position player pitching in the 9th. Big night for Vlad, hopefully it's the start of a hot streak after a horrible season for a  player getting paid top dollar.
• The Guardians were 2-1 on ABS challenges and Alejandro Kirk successfully overturned the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 7-15 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays are 1.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers and Orioles, who both lost today, are also 1.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins (curreently tied in their game tonight) are 3 games back of the  3rd WC spot, but will be 2.5 games back if they win and 3.5 games back if they lose. Finally, the Mariners (won today) are 4.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. 
• Up next: pretty simple, extend the win streak to 2 games, notch their 21st series win and 11th season series win, get within a half game of the Gurdiians for the 3rd WC spot and get that all important tiebreaker for winning the season series. Lose and the Guardians likely hold the tiebreaker for havng the better interdivision record. Jose Soriano starts against Guardians righty Tanner Bibee

Game #140 Toronto Blue Jays (68-71) @ Cleveland Guardians (70-68)

- Game #139 - Toronto Blue Jays (68-71) @ Cleveland Guardians (70-68) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto scored the Blue Jays only run with some heads-up base runnings in a 6-1 come-from-behind loss to the Guardians

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays hit the road for the second last time this season as they landed in Cleveland with a massive opportunity to snag the 3rd WC spot. The Blue Jays took the series in Toronto back at the end of April, outscoring the Guardians 15-13. Ricky Tiedemann and Sean Keys were recalled from AAA-ball as the September call-ups with the annual September roster expansion. Lefty Joe Mantiply was reinstated from the 60-day IL and utility man Josh Smith was reinstated from the 10-day IL. Daz Cameron was DFA'd. Simeon Woods Richardson cleared waivers and eleted free agency. Spencer Miles got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Ernie Clement was back in the lineup at 2B after the full day off Sunday.  Could the Blue Jays extend the winning streak to 4 games? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• Spencer Miles pitching line: 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 0K 16 pitches (12 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 5th on a wild pitch by ¹Gavin Williams that scored Kazuma Okamoto 
• The Guardians took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Patrick Bailey hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Angel Martinez 
• The Guardians added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Angel Genoa hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Martinez
• Gavin Williams pitching line: 7IP 2H 1R (unearned) 1BB 13K 97 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Guardians added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Martinez belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Petey Halpin 
• Final score: Guardians 6 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Stop me if you heard this one before: the Blue Jays had a bullpen game again today with Spencer Miles opening the game on the bump. It seems like every turn through the rotation has needed at least one bullpen game due to injury and performance (mostly injury). Miles has been a bulk pitcher and an opener in these scenarios and today, he got the ball first, giving up a hit in the 1 inning of work. The FO needs to address this in the  off-season and the Blue Jays should have a minimum of 6-7 pitchers built up to handle a starter's role.
• The rest of the bullpen gave up 6 runs on7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 7 innings. Spencer Arrighetti, Joe Mantiply and Michael Lorenzen all gave up 2-run HRs. The first one was back-breaking and demoralizing since the Blue Jays manufactured their only run in the top half of the 5th inning 
• Speaking of the offense, they were stymied by the Guardians pitching all night. They manufactured their only run only because Guardians catcher Patrick Bailey made a horrible decision to try and gun down Kazuma Okamoto on a pitch that was ball 4 and then Bailey was unable to corrall a nasty splitter for a wild pitch (and unearned run). Nobody reached base more than once
• Both catchers were 0-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays fell to 2.5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (losing in their game vs. the Rockies) are 1 game back of the 3rd WC spot for the moment, but will be 1.5 games back if the score holds and will be a half game back of the 3rd WC spot if they win. The Texas Rangers (ahead in their game vs. the A's) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot for the moment, but will be 1.5 games back if the score holds and will be 2.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot if they lose.  The Twins (won today) are 3.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the Mariners ((won today) are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC. I am eliminating the Tigers, who are 7.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot, from the WC race updates because they have to much ground to make up and too many teams to overtake.
• Up next, The Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 20th series loss of the season/ Ace Dylan Cease starts against Guardians lefty Joey Cantillo

Game #139 Toronto Blue Jays (68-70) @ Cleveland Guardians (69-68)

Game #138 - Seattle Mariners (64-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-70) - game recap

 

Max Scherzer threw 7 shutout innings in a 7-0 shutout win over the Mariners

After a huge comeback win yesterday capped off by an Alejandro Kirk RBI singled and aided by 7 strong innings from Jose Soriano, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win and complete their second series sweep of the season. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF, Brett Bateman was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Ernie Clenent got the full daty of with Andres Gimenez at SS and Charles McAdoo at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win and complete their second series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Alejandro Kirk whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Brett Bateman
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Myles Straw
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 87 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 10K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring George Springer and Nathan Lukes
• Three batters later, Bateman doubled scoring Okamoto
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Mariners 0

My Take:

• Max Scherzer threw 7 shutout innings, giving up a hit, walking one and striking out 10, moving him past Gaylord Perry for 9th most career strikeouts in MLB history. For all the naysayers thinking Scherzer should hang them up, he still has a few bullets left in the legendary arm. This might have been Scherzer's best start in a Blue Jays uniform. He seems extremely motivated with the Blue Jays very much controlling their own destiny to snag the 3rd WC spot with series left against most of the teams they are battling for that one playoff spot. September is going to be a blast.
• The bullpen walked a batter and struck out 5 over the last 2 innings. Brayden Fisher retired every batter he faced.
• The offense today was led by Alejandro Kirk (2-run HR), Kazuma Okamoto (solo HR), Brett Bateman (RBI, run scored) and Andres Gimenez (2 RBI). It's nice to see the offense being spread around with better AB's lately. Vlad has 9 home games left to hit a HR at the Rogers Center
• Both teams were 0-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position.
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays are 1.5 games back of the Guardians, who also won today for the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (won today) are 1 game back of the 3rd WC spot. The Texas Rangers (won today) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins (won today) are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners are 5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the  Tigers (lost today) are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open their second-last road trip in Cleveland with the chance to take over the 3rd WC spot. The Blue Jays took the series in Toronto, outscoring the Guardians 15-13. Spencer Arrighetti starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams Tuesday

Game #138 Seattle Mariners (64-72) v. Toronto Blue Jays (67-70)

 

Game #137 - Seattle Mariners (64-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (67-70) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in the game winning run in a 4-3 comeback win over the Mariners

After a solid win thanks to a team effort offensively and 6 strong innings from ace Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season. Jose Soriano got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daz Cameron was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Brett Bateman was in RF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Charles McAdoo got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Taylor Ward singled scoring Josh Naylor and Raleigh
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 5th on a bases loaded walk to George Springer that forced in Myles Straw. Brett Bateman also scored on the play because ball 4 was a wild pitch by Eduard Bazardo that went to the backstop.
• Kade Andersob pitching line: 4.1IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 3K 85 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 6th as Bateman singled scoring Charles McAdoo
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Straw
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 7IP5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 6K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a perfect 9th for his 31st save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Mariners 3

My Take:

• Jose Soriano fired 7 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. It's always tough when a start is delayed by a pregame ceremony and it showed early. Soriano was taken deep by Cal Raleigh in the 2nd inning and  he gave up 2 more runs in the 4th inning, but then kept the score where it was at. Soriano got stronger as the game went on and retired 10 of the last 11 batters he faced.
• The bullpen threw 2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk and strking out 4. Closer Louis Varland looked sharp after a few days rest and retired the side in the ninth on a tidy 12 pitches.
• The offense get 'er done in the 5th, scoring a rare 2 runs on a wild pitch by Mariners reliever Eduard Bazardo, who gave up the series winning HR in last year's ALCS to Springer, who drew the bases loaded walk. The next inning, Bateman came through again with a game-tying RBI single and Captain Kirk followed that up immediately with his own clutch base hit to give the Blue Jays the lead. It feels like Vlad may never hit a home run at the Rogers center ever again. It is unfathomable that he still hasn't gone deep at home. The weight of that contract must feel like an albatross right now.
• Alejandro Kirk was successful on both ABS challenges. The Mariners were 1-2 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position.
• In terms of the wild card race, The Blue Jays, Rangers (play later tonight) and Orioles (play later tonight) are all 1.5 games back of the Guardians (lost today) for the 3rd WC spot. If the Rangers and Orioles win their respective games, they will gain another half game over the Blue Jays. The Mariners and Twins (lost today) are both 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Tigers (won today) are 4.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. 
• Uo next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win of the seasion and complete their 2nd series sweep of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Mariners righty Logan Gilbert.

Game #137 Seattle Mariners (64-71) v. Toronto Blue Jays (66-70)

Game #136 - Seattle Mariners (64-71) @ Toronto Blue Jays (66-70) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto drove in 3 runs, including a solo HR in an 8-1 rout over the Mariners

After a beat-down yesterday due to a bad day for the pitchers and the offense doing nothing yet again, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win as they welcomed the Seattle Mariners to town. The Mariners took the series in Seattle back on the 4th of July long weekend, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-2. Simeon-Woods Richardson, who was a disaster yesterday, was DFA'd. Righty CJ Van Eyk was recalled from AAA-ball. Ace Dylan Cease got the start with Brandon Valenzuelsa behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Brett Bateman was in CF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and  Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Dominic Canzone whacked a solo blast to right-center
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Brett Bateman
• Three batters later, Guerrero Jr. scored on a sac fly by Kazuma Okamoto
• A batter later, Andres Gimenez singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Nathan Lukes belted a solo jack to right
• Two batters later, Springer hammered a solo bomb to the 2nd deck in left
• Emerson Hancock pitching line: 5IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 1K 67 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Okamoto whackeda solo blast to left
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 92 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Myles Straw singled scoring Lukes
• A batter later, Okamoto singled scoring Springer
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Mariners 1

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. Cease became the first pitcher since some guy named Randy Johnson in 2001 to have 19 consecutive starts with 7+ strikeouts. Cease has easily been the best starter in the rotation and should garner some Cy Young votes
• The bullpen held the Mariners to a hit and 3 walks while striking out 1 over the last 3 innings, None of the relievers retired every batter they faced
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes (2 runs scored, including solo HR), George Spinger (3 runs scored, including solo HR), Kazuma Okamoto (3 RBI, including solo HR) and Vlad (RBI, run scored) led the way
• The Mariners were 1-1 on ABS challenges. The Blue Jays didn't attempt an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 5-11 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jaus are 2.5 games back of the Guardians, who lost tonight, for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers (lost tonight) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot, the Orioles (leading the A's at the moment) are 2.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot, but will be 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot if they hang on to win tonight. The Twins (lost tonight) are 4 games back of the final WC spot, the Mariners fell to 5 games back of the final WC spot and the free falling Tigers are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it 2 straight wins (and guarantee a season series splut) and notch their 19th series win of the season. Jose Soriano starts against Mariners lefty Kade Anderson

Game #136 Seattle Mariners (64-70) v. Toronto Blue Jays (65-70) AppleTV+ Exclusive

 

Game #135 - Kansas City Royals (60-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-70) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run HR as the Blue Jays were pummeled 13-2 by the Royals

After a win thanks to a great bullpen day effort and a 3-run HR off the bat of Nathan Lukes, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season. Michael Lorenzen was claimed off waivers from the Rockies. Jonatan Clase was transferred to the 60-day IL and Chad Dallas was optioned to AAA-ball. Spencer Arrighetti got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daz Cameron was in LF and Myles Straw was in CF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Charles McAdoo got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and notch their 19th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Carter Jensen hammered a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• Four batters later, Bobby Witt Jr. scored on a fielder's choice hit by Salvaador Perez
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the top of the 2nd as Jac Caglianone singled scoring Witt Jr. and  Josh Rojas
• Spencer Arrighetti pitching line: 4IP 5H 4R (3 earned) 2BB 4K 79 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 6th as Kyle Isbel doubled scoring Rojas
• Two batters later, Witt Jr. doubled home Isbel
• A batter later, Caglianone singled scoring Witt Jr. and Jensen
• A batter after that, Vinnie Pasquantino whacked a solo blast to righ, also scoring Caglianone
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer hammered a 2-run bomb to desd center; also scoring  Alejandro Kirk 
• Noah Cameron pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 3K 81 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 8th as Pasquantino singled scoring Caglianone
• The Roysls added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Caglianone drilled a 2-run jack to the 2nd deck in right; also scoring Tyler Tolbert
• Final score: Royals 13 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Spencer Arrighetti batlled through 4 innings, giving up 4 runs (3 earned thanks to a fielding error committed by him) on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. The Blue Jays needed more out of him after another bullpen game yesterday. He's going to be a work in progress
• The rest of the bullpen gave up 9 runs on 11 hits while walking 4 and striking out 5 over the last five innings. None of the pitchers were particularly effective today.
• Offensively, George Springer broke the shutout bid with a 2-run HR in thhe 6th inning. Good that the home run jacket wasn't used given the score.
• The Blue Jays were successful on both their ABS challenges and the Royals didn't use an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-6 with runners in scoring position
• It was a missed opportunity to gain ground in the WC race. The Blue Jays are now 3.5 games back of the Guardians for the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (also lost today) are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The remaining teams in the WC hunt were idle today. The Rangers are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot, the Tigers and Mariners are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the Tigers are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot
• Up next, a huge series against the Mariners, who took the series in Seattle 4th of July long weekend, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-2. Ace Dylan Cease starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #135 Kansas City Royals (59-75) v. Toronto Blue Jays (65-69)

Game #134 - Kansas City Royals (59-75) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-69) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit a 3-run HR to lift the Blue Jays to a 3-0 shutout win over the Royals

After dropping yesterday's game due to a lste game rally falling short, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 21st series loss of the season. It was another bullpen day with Spencer Miles starting with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez got the start in LF. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH after a day off yesterday. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 21st series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Spencer Miles pitching line: 2IP 2H 0R 0BB 1K 33 pitches (20 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Nathan Lukes belted a 3-run jack to right-center; also scoring Jesus Sanchez and Kazuma Okamoto
• Randy Dobnak pitching line: 6IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 92 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Louis Varland got the last 4 outs for his 30th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Royals 0

My Take: 

• It was bullpen day for the upteenth time with Spencer Miles as the opener. It is unprecedented the amount of injuries the Blue Jays have suffered in 2026. However, the injuries have also created opportunities for some of the prospects like Spencer Miles to break into the majors and Miles has done a great job, largely playing a role as a multi-inning guy, but was aldo stretched out to be a starter when the injury woes/suboptimal performances from Eric Lauer were at their peak. Tonight, Miles pitched the first 2 innings, giving up 2 hits, walking none and striking out 1. The Blue Jays need to address the lsck of pitching depth in the rotation, both in the off-season (acquiring 2 or 3 starters who have the ability to throw 5 or 6 innings on a consistent basis via free agency and the trade market) and in spring training (building up at minimum 6 and ideally 7 or 8 to offset any injuries and/or performance woes.
• The rest of the bullpen threw 7 shutout innings, giving up 4 hits, walking 2 and striking out 8. Chad Dallas, Paul Sewald and Mason Fluharty retired every batter they faced. Louis Varland, who had to escape a jam the normally reliable Tyler Rogers got into in the 8th inning for his 30th save of the season. Varland is the first closer since Roberto Osuna in 2017 to record at least 30 saves. Duane Ward has the single season Blue Jays record with 45 saves in 1993. Ward is the only Blue Jays closer with at least 40 saves.
• Nathan Lukes got some redemption after making the final out of the ball game and killing a late game rally by going deep for the only 3 runs of the game. Jesus Sanchez had a multi-hit game. I'm not convinced this offense can do enough to give the Blue Jays enough wins to make the playoffs. The Blue Jays really need Vlad's bat to catch fire.
• Alejandro Kirk was 1-2 on ABS challenges and the Royals were unsuccessful in their only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays are 3 games back of the Guardians, who won earlier today for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers are 1.5 games back oFthe Guardians for the 3rd WC spot, but they are looking like they will be 2 games back with the White Sox ahead by six runs and the Guardians down to their last 3 AB's with the game in the bottom of the 8th. The Orioles are 3 games back for the moment and will gain a half game if the score, that has the Orioles leading the Cardinals by a run in the bottom of the 9th holds. The Tigers are pretty much out of the race and sit 5.5 games back of the 3rd and final WC spot after a shutout loss to the Rays earlier today. The Mariners are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot after a shutout loss to the Phillies. Finally,  the Twins lost as well and are 3.5 games back of the 3rd WC race.
• A shoutout to the Little League team from Little Mountain in East Vancouver, who repped Canada at the Little League World Series and kicked some butt, beating a heavily favored South Korea. They were knocked out of the tournanent by the formidable team from Japan. There have been some fine basebaall players who were born in BC, led by Larry Walkers. BCers who played for the Blue Jays include Jeff Francis, Michael Saunders, and Brett Lawrie. Who knows, maybe some of the kids from this little league squad will play in the majors or at least get drafted.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season. Spencer Arrighetti starts against Royals lefty Noah Cameron

Game #134 Kansas City Royals (59-74) v. Toronto Blue Jays (64-69)

 

Game #133 - Kansas City Royals (59-74) @ Toronto Blue Jays (64-69) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in a pair of runs in a 5-3 loss to the Royals 

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week long homestand, taking on the KC Royals for the first time this season. The Royals won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 45-21. Shane Bieber was placed on the 15-day IL (retroactive to August 21) with a right major teres strain. Chad Dallas was recalled from AAA-ball. Max Scherzer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF, Brett Bateman was in CF and Nathan Lukes wad in RF. Andres Gimenez was back in the lineup at SS after missing a few days with a strained hamstring. Ernie Clement was at 2B. Jesus Sanchez served as DH. Could the Blue Jays start the week and homestand with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a double play ball hit by Salvador Perez that scored Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Jesus Sanchez that scored Brett Bateman
• The Royals took the lead in the top of the 5th as Perez singled scoring Witt Jr.
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 4H 2R (both earned) 5BB 4K 92 pitches (51 for strikes)
• Seth Lugo pitching line: 5IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 89 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Royals took the lead in the top of the 6th on a throwing error by Vlad on a ball hit by Kyle Isbel that scored Nick Loftin
• A batter later, John Rave scored on a sac fly hit by Carter Jensen
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 9th as Rave singled scoring Tyler Tolbert
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Daz Cameron and Bateman
• Final score: Royals 5 Blue Jays 3

My  Take:

• Max Scherzer battled through 5 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 5 and striking out 4. He struggled with his command right from the get-go and got fortunate to escape the 1st inning with just one run allowed thanks to Salvador Perez hitting into a double play. He did settle down to retire 8 in a row at one point. The Blue Jays need Scherzer to go deeper in games as they continue to be pummeled in the injury department.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs (just 1 earned thanks to a bad throw to first from Vladdy after fielding a bunt) on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 5 over the last 4 innings. None of the relievers got through an inning cleanly, but at least none of the runs were charged to Brendan Little, Mason Fluharty or Paul Sewald.
• The offense didn't do muchh except tying the game immediately after the Royals took the lead thanks to a Jesus Sanchez ssac fly and a clutch base hit by Nathan Lukes, who ended the game trying to stretch the single into a double. Alejandro Kirk's hitting streak came to an end. Gutsy effort by Ernie Clement to stay in the game after fouling the ball off his balls. Next time he'll be weariing a cup after that experience
• The Blue Jays were 3-1 on ABS challenges. Royals catcher Carter Jensen was unsuccessful on the Royals only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were a dreadful 1-11 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, The Blue Jays are now 2.5 games back of the Guardians (who are currently losing their game against the Angels, who are playing the spoiler role very well) for the 2rd WC spot. The Rangers (who lost to the White Sox) are a half game back of the 3rd WC spot The Orioles (spanked the Cardinals 13-1) and Twins (currently losing to the A's) are both 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners (currently tied with the Phillies in their game tonight) are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. Finally, the Tigers, whp won today, are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. There's going to be lots of scoreboard watching in the last month of the season. Buckle up Blue Jays fans.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 21st series loss of the season. It will be an all too familiar bullpen game for the Blue Jays. The Blue Jays offense will take on Royals righty Randy Dobnak.

Game #133 Kansas City Royals (58-74) v. Toronto Blue Jays (64-68)

 

Game #132 - Toronto Blue Jays (64-68) @ New York Yankees (74-56) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a run and extended his hitting streak to 12 games in an 8-3 loss to the Yankees

After a huge win on the strength of 6.2 strong innings from Dylan Cease and a 2-RBI effort from Nathan Lukes, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 20th series win and 9th season series win of the season. Jose Soriano 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 extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 20th series win and 9th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Spencer Jones doubled scoring George Lomard Jr.
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Brett Bateman that scored Charles McAdoo
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 4th on asac fly by Daz Cameron that scored George Springer
• Carlos Rodon pitching line: 4IP 2H 2R (1 earmed) 2BB 2K 76 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Yankees took the lead in the bottom of the 6th on a bases loaded walk to Trent Grisham that forced in Lombard Jr.
• A batter later, Ben Rice singled scoring Jones and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 5IP 7H 5R (all earmed) 3BB 7K 100 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Yankees added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Chisholm belted a 2-run jack to the second deck in right; also scoring Cody Bellinger
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Myles Straw
• The Yankees added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Grisham hanmmered a solo bomb to dead center
• Final score: Yankees 8 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Jose Soriano battled through 5 innings, giving up 5 runs on 7 hits while walking 3 and striking out 7. Three of the runs should not have been charged to him because he should have been done after 5 innings. This game shows the inability of the front office to address the lack of pitching depth. Yes, they could not have anticipated every single injury that occurred, but they knew Shane Bieber, Jose Berrios, Trey Yesavage (pitched through 4 tiers last season) and Bowsdenn Francis would all be unavailable to start the season. It didn't help that Cody Ponce tore his ACL his first start of the season and both Eric Lauer and Max Scherzer were unable to replicate the 2025 season.
• The bullpen gave up 3 more runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. At least they stayed away from most of the high leverage guys, other than Mason Fluharty
• The sputtering offence produced a run on a sac fly and a clutch base hit off the red hot bat of Alejandro Kirk, who extended his hitting streak to 12 games. Not good enough 
• Neither team was successful in ABS challenges with the Yankees 0-2 and Alejandro Kirk unsuccessful on the Blue Jays only ABS challenge.
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays and Twins (could gain a half game if they win today) are 1.5 games back of the Rangers for the 3rd WC spot.. The Guardians look like they are going to be tied with the Rangers with a win today. The Orioles already lost and are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners are losing and could fall to 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Tigers have already lost and are 3.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Tigers, Rangers, Guardians, Mariners, and Twins all play tomorrow and would gain a half game on the idle Blue Jays with wins
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open a week long homestand as they take on the Royals for the first time this season. The Royals took the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 45-21. Max Scherzer starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #132 Toronto Blue Jays (64-67) @ New York Yankees (73-56)

Game #131 - Toronto Blue Jays (64-67) @ New York Yankees (73-56) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes came off the bench and drove in a pair of runs as the Blue Jays hung on to edge the Yankees 4-3

After dropping yesterday's loss due to the inconsistent offense not getting anything going against an average Cam Schlittler, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 18th series loss and 13th season series loss of the season. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL (and took his spot at 1B) and Davis Schneider was optioned to AAA-ball. Ace Dylan Cease got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daz Cameron was in LF Myles Straw was in CF and Brett Bateman was in RF. George Springer served as DH. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 18th series loss and 13th season series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer singled Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Charles McAdoo singled scoring Kazuma Okamoto
• Ryan Weathers pitching line: 3.1IP 8H 2R (both earned) 0BB 3K 72 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• The Yankees got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Austin Wells singled scoring George Lombard Jr.
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 6.2IP 2H 1R (earned) 5BB 8K 111 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Lukes hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• The Yankees got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Luis Garcia Jr. belted a 2- run jack to the second deck in right; also scoring Ben Rice
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 29th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Yankees 3

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 6.2 strong innings, giving up a run on 2 hits while walking 5 and striking out 8. His command wasn't the best today and the walks and strikeouts drove up the pitch count. Cease is so good that evven when he isn't at his best, it's hard to get to him. Cease had a no-hitter going into the 7th inning. It would have been nice to let him finish the 7th inning, but the Blue Jays are pretty much in must win territory every game now. They have very little margin for error with so many teams fighting for one playoff spot.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 2 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over the last 2.1 innings. Tyler Rogers experienced 2 firsts on the season: he hit his first batter and was taken deep for the first time this season. Spencer Miles retired the only batter he faced
• Nathan Lukes came off the bench and gave the Blue Jays 2 massive insurance runs, including a solo HR in the 8th inning. Alejandro Kirk didn't waste any time extending is hitting streak to 11 games with a base hit in the 1st inning. Vlad also got a base hit right away in his return to the lineup. George Springer and Charles McAdoo drove in the other two runs the Blue Jays scored
• The Blue Jays were 1-2 on ABS challenges and the Yankees were 3-2 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 4-18 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays, Twins and Guardians are a game back of the Texas Rangers for the 3rd WC spot for the moment. The Orioles are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot, the Tigers are 2.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the Mariners are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. Hope you all have like 5 tvs because the Rangers, Orioles, Tigers, Guardians and Mariners all start their games in a couple of hours and all could potentially gain a half game on the Blue Jays if they win their respective games
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 17th series win and 9th season series win of the season. Jose Soriano starts against Yankees lefty Carlos Rodon

Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (63-67) @ New York Yankees (73-55)

Game #130 - Toronto Blue Jays (63-67) @ New York Yankees (73-55) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 3-1 loss to the Yankees

After pulling off a huge series win in Tampa thanks to 7 strong innings from Shane Bieber, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they continued the road trip in the Bronx. The Yankees and Blue Jays split the first 10 games of the season series with the Blue Jays outscoring the Yankees 36-35. Josh Smith was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to August 20) with left hamstring inflammation and Davis Schneider was recalled from AAA-ball. Spencer Arrighetti was activated from the 10-day IL and lefty Brendan Cellucci was optioned back to AAA-ball. It was another bullpen day with Mason Fluharty opening and Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Brett Bateman was back in the lineup in CF after missing a couple of days with a sore hamstring. Myles Straw was in LF. Kazuma Okamoto was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS, Charles McAdoo was at 2B and Brandon Valenzuela got the start at 1B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• Mason Fluharty pitching line: 0.2IP 0H 0R 2BB 0K 14 pitches (4 for strikes)
• The Yankees opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Spencer Jones hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in right, just inside the foul pole; also scoring Trent Grisham
• The Yankees added a run in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Jose Caballero that scored George Lombard Jr.
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Brett Bateman
• Cam Schlittler pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 96 pitches (59 for strikes)
• David Bednar threw a scoreless 9th for his 30th save of the season
• Final score: Yankees 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• It was another bullpen day and I'll bet Mason Fluharty won't be tapped as the opener again. He walked 2 batters and only threw 4 strikes of the 14 pitches he threw. This is why I hate the opener. Starting a game vs. coming out of the bullpen are two very different beasts and  require very different preparation. Dennis Eckersley was probably the best pitcher to have succeeded in both roles. Mariano Rivera, the most famous closer in the game was a starting pitcher his first season in the bigs and he wasn't successful at it. He was much better as a closer. The Blue Jays should have at least 2 or 3 relievers who can handle a starter's role and workload on top of the traditional five to account for injury and poor performance. Having bullpen days once or twice every 5 days is not sustainable and will wear down the bullpen.
• The rest of the bullpen gave up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 12 over the last 7.1 innings. Spencer Arrighetti took the loss for giving up the three runs. Brayden Fisher and Paul Sewald retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Alejandro Kirk drove in the Blue Jays' only run and extended his hitting streak to 10 games at the same time. His bat needs to stay in the lineup while it is sizzling hot. Brett Bateman also had a good  day at the plate with 3 base hits and scored the only run for the Blue Jays. Jesus Sanchez was the only other Blue Jay to reach base more than once with 2 base hits.
• Alejandro Kirk was 2-1 on ABS challenges and Yankees catcher Ali Sanchez was unsuccessful on the Yankees only ABS challenge of the game
• The Blue Jays were an abysmal 1-14 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays and Guardians are both a game back of the Rangers and Twins for the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles and Tigers are 1.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners are 3 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins and Rangers are currently tied in their respective games while the Guardians are winning big in their game and could move into a tie with the Blue Jay if the lead holds. The Mariners are leading their game and could gain a half game if they win. The Orioles won their game and the freefalling Tigers lost their game. Every game feels like a must win with so many teams very much in contention for the 3rd WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 19th series loss and 12th season series loss of the season. Ace Dylan Cease starts against Yankees lefty Ryan Weathers