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

Game #26 - Cleveland Guardians (15-12) v. Toronto Blue Jays (10-15)

 

Game #25 - Cleveland Guardians (15-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-15) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez hit a 2-run double in a losing effort as the Guardians held on to defeat the Blue Jays 8-6

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week long home stand as they welcomed the Clevelsnd Guardians to town. The Blue Jays and Guardians split the season series last year with the Blue Jays outscoring the Guardians 32-24. Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after serving as DH Wednesday (Lenyn Sosa served as DH tonight). Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend and homestand with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Daniel Schneeman led off the game with a solo jack to right and into the Guardians bullpen
• Four batters later, George Valera doubled scoring Jose Ramirez and Rhys Hoskins
• A batter later, Angel Martinex whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Valera
• Nathan Lukes left the game in the bottom half of the inning with an injured hamstring
• Two batters later, Davis Schneider scored on a ground out hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Jesus Sanchez hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Kazuma Okamoto drilled a solo bomb to straightaway center
• The Guardians added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Martinez smacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Hoskins
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 2.1IP 6H 7R (all earned) 3BB 0K 82 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Schneider
• The Guardians added a run in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Chase DeLauter
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring Lenyn Sosa and Okamoto\
• Gavin Williams pitching line: 6IP 7H 6R (all earned) 2BB 4K 96 pitches (63 for strikes)\
• Cade Smith pitched a scoreless 9th for his 6th save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 8 Blue Jays 6

My Take:

• Neither starting pitcher was exactly stellar tonight. Scherzer may be nearing the end of his time and potentially career with Trey Yesavage and Jose Berrios both nearing a return from the IL. Scherzer was lit up for 7 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out none over 2.1 innings. Clearly he didn't have it tonight. Was his forearm barking at him, was it lack of command or simply a day where he didn't have his best stuff going for him. With Yesavage very close to returning, one of Scherzer or Lauer will come out of the rotation. One or both could be put on the IL since both have been playing through things. One or both could be DFA'd with both pitchers out of options. It will be interesting to see if Lauer or Scherzer are yanked from the rotation first.
• The bullplen gave up a run on 4 hits while walking one and striking out 8 over the last 6.2 innings.This might have been a good situation for Jeff Hoffman, who is being removed from the closer's role for now, to pitch in given the game was pretty out of reach, though the Blue Jays did chip away at the deficit and had a chance to tie in the 9th but came up short. Mason Fluharty and Tommy Nance both retired every batter they faced and combined for 5 strikesouts over 2 innings
• The offense is slowly showing signs of the oomph it showed in 2025 when they were never really out of games. Davis Schneider (2 runs scored), Andres Gimenez (2-run double), Kazuma Okamoto (2 runs scored, including a solo HR) and Jesus Sanchez did the damage today.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays were 4-5 in ABS challenges, Davis Schneider and Tyler Heineman had both their challenges successfully overturned with Schneider overturnin 2 strike calls into balls and Heineman overturning 2 ball calls into strikes for his pitchers. Guardians catcher Bo Naylor was unsuccessful in his lone ABS challenge with the ball call being confirmed
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 7th series loss of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Gaurdians lefty Joey Cantillo
• 
  

Game #25 - Cleveland Guardians (14-12) v. Toronto Blue Jays (10-14)

 

Game #24 - Toronto Blue Jays (10-14) @ LA Angels (12-14) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in a run and scored a run in a 7-3 loss to the Angels

After hanging on by the skin of their teeth for a dicey 9th inning save by Louis Varland, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 2nd series sweep of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Lenyn Sosa at 1B. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their second sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Angels opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd on a sac fly by Jo Adell that scored Jordan O'Hoppe
• The Angels added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Nolan Schaunel whacked a solo blast to right-center
• The Angels added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Mike Trout belted a solo jack to left and into the Angels bullpen
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 5IP 7H 0R 0BB 4K 84 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5IP 7H 3R (all earned) 2BB 3K 79 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a ground out hit by Tyler Heineman that scored Kazuma Okamoto
• A batter later, Nathan Lukes doubled scoring Andres Gimenez
• A batter after that, Ernie Clement singled home Lukes
• The Angels tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Schaunel doubled scoring Trout, Adell and Yoan Moncada
• A batter later, Vaughn Grissom singled home Schaunel
• Final score:Angels 7 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 5 innings, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3. Lauer got what he desired with being used as a traditonal starter after he complained about being used as a bulk pitcher last game. To be fair to Lauer, there is definitely a different routine for a starting pitcher, who generally takes longer to warm up, and a reliever, who can enter a game at the start of an inning or in the middle of an inning with the team in a jam. Dennis Eckersley is a rare pitcher who was excellent as a starter and a reliever. Lauer was clearly battling through something as evidenced by a noticeable drop in velocity and the very visible tape on his neck. At this point, Lauer may be heading for the IL once Trey Yesavage returns if he is still ailing.
• After the offense got Lauer off the hook in the top half of the inning, Tommy Nance and Brayden Fisher imploded for 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks in the bottom half of the inning. On a day where the bullpen was thin with several relievers down or not likely to be able to go longer than an inning, the lower leverahe relievers got the task of keeping the score close. None of the relievers retired every batter faced.
• Don't look now, but Nathan Lukes, who has gotten plenty of criticism for a poor start to the season, is red hot with hits in five of the last 6 games, including 2 more today. Vlad, who will play his 1000th career game Friday, saw his 12 game hit streak come to an end with an 0-4 effort today.
• Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit
• The Angels were 2-1 on ABS challenges with catcher Logan O'Hoppe had 2 balls overturned to strikes and Nolan Schaunel was incorrect in his ABS challenge with a strike confirmed. The Blue Jays were 1-2 in ABS challenges with catcher Tyler Heineman going 1-1 and Andres Gimenez being incorrect in his challenge.
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home for a week-long homestand starting with the Cleveland Guardians. Max Scherzer starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams

Game #24 - Toronto Blue Jays (10-13) @ Los Angeles Angels (11-14)

 

Game #23 - Toronto Blue Jays (9-13) @ Los Angeles Angels (11-13)

 

Game #22 - Toronto Blue Jays (8-13) @ Los Angeles Angels (11-12)

 

Game #21- Toronto Blue Jays (8-13) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (13-9) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in 3 runs and scored a run in a 10-4 victory over the Diamondacks

After another loss due to Jeff Hoffman giving up a grand slam, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time (first in a season series). Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's loss. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time (first in a season series)? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Nathan Lukes and Ernie Clement
• Two batters later, Eloy Jimenez singled scoring Guerrero Jr
• Two batters later Kazuma Okamoto doubled scoring Jesus Sanchez and Jimenez
• Three batters later, Lukes doubled home Andres Gimenez, Okamoto and Myles Straw 
• Ryne Nelson pitching line 0.1IP 8H 8R (all earned) 1BB 1K 30 pitches (19 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as James McCann singled scoring Adrian Del Castillo
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Okamoto whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Gimenez that scored Guerrero Jr.
• The Diamondbacks got one back in the button of the 6th as Del Castillo doubled scoring Lourdes Gurriel Jr 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 86 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks got a pair back in the bottom of the 7th as Jorge Barrosa smacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Diamondbacks bullpen; also scoring Ketel Marte
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Diamondbacks 4

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 6 solid innings giving up a pair of runs on 7 his while walking 1 and striking 4. For once, Gausman didn't have to be cy young today. He retired 5 in a row at one point and made the pitches he had to to escape the jams he got into. It must have been nice to be able to work with a sizable lead knowing a mistake pitch wouldn't be catastrophic.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 3 hits (both runs were charged to Mason Fluharty who was taken deep by Jorge Barrosa) while walking none and striking out 1 over the last 3 innings. Tommy Nance retired every batter he faced.
• Offensively, the bats exploded in the 1st inning like a shaken pop bottle, scoring 8 times, including a bases clearing double from Nathan Lukes, who has received a lot of criticism for early season struggles from fans. Lukes got 2 hits in the inning and Dbacks starters Ryne Nelson until the 9th batter of the inning and Lukes knocked him out of the game with the double a batter later. Vlad and Kazuma Okamoto, who later went deep, knocked in 2 runs each in that 1st inning. The trick will be replicating that result tomorrow in LA.
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once, all but Myles Straw had a hit and all but Brandon Valenzuela either scored a run or drove in a run.
• The Dbacks, and in particular catcher James McCann, were a perfect 2-2 in overturning ABS challenges. The Blue Jays were 0-2 with a ball confirmed on a challenge by catcher Brandon Valenzuela and a strike confirmed on a challenge by Myles Straw
• The Blue Jays were 5-13 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to LA to take on the Angels in the last stop of the road trip. The Blue Jays took the season series last year with both teams scoring 26 runs. Dylan Cease starts against Angels lefty Reid Detmers

Game #21 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-13) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (13-8)

 

Game #20- Toronto Blue Jays (7-13) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (13-8) - game recap

M-ax Scherzer threw 6 solid innings in a 6-2 loss to the Diamondbacks

After a hybrid bullpen day with Eric Lauer as the bulk inning guy went south, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and avoid losing their 6th straight series and 3rd straight season series. Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF, Myles Straw was in RF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid losing their 6th straight series and 3rd straight season series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jesus Sanchez singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Diamondbacks tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Geraldo Perdomo singled scoring Corbin Carroll
• The Diamondbacks took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Alek Thomas doubled scoring Jose Fernandez
• The Blue jaysFinal score:  tied it in the top of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Eloy Jimenez
• Zac Gallen pitching line: 5.2IP 9H 2R (both earned) 0BB 3K 88 pitches (63 for strikes
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 1K 74 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Diamondbacks retook the lead in the bottom of the 8th on a grand slam to the opposite field in left-center by Carroll that also scored Ildemaro Vargas, Thomas and Ketel Marte 
• Final score: Diamondbacks 6 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Max Scherzer fired 6 strong innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. He retired 8 in a row at one point and the drizzled veteran made pitches when he had to. The Blue jays should considering keeping him in the rotation even when everyone is healthy because he adds so much valuable knowledge in the dugout and tonight he showed he can still contribute meaningfully. Next start, Scherzer should reach the 3500 strikeout milestone. 
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 3 hits and a walk (all against Jeff Hoffman, who is apparently being moved out of the closer role, at least temporarily) and striking out 2. The Blue Jays should give Tyler Rogers, who has been fantastic so far this season, as crack at cloring games.
• The offense continues to sputter along. Nathan Lukes had a good night in the leadoff spot with 3 hits and he scored the Blue Jays first run.
• The Blue Jays had their chances, as evidenced by every starter except Andres Gimenez and Tyler Heineman with at least 1 hit.
• There were no ABS challenges for the second straight day, but the Blue Jays successfully overturned 2 calls in the field. When you are struggling as a team, you need to challenge every call you can.
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time (1st in a season series). Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Diamondbaacks righty Ryne Nelson

Game #20 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-12) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (12-8)

 

Game #19- Toronto Blue Jays (7-12) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (12-8) - game recap

 

Myles Straw scored twice, including a solo HR in a losing effort as the Diamondbacks came from behind to double up the Blue Jays 6-3

After dropping a 5th straight series and 2nd straight season series, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win and snap a 2-game skid. They began a weekend series against the Diamondbacks tonight. The Blue Jays took the season series last year, outscoring the Diamondbacks 18-14. Brayden Fisher got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (Lenyn Sosa served as DH tonight). Kazuma Okamoto was back at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Brandon Fisher pitching line: 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 0K 11 pitches (9 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 4th on a sac bunt by Lenyn Sosa that scored Myles Straw 
• The Diamondbacks tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Nolan Arenado whacked a solo blast to left and into the diamondbacks bullpen
• The Diamondbacks added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Corbin Carroll singled scoring Jorge Berrosa
• Two batters later, Jose Fernandez singled scoring Ketel Marte
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Straw belted a solo jack to left and into the Diamondbacks bullpen
• The Diamondbacks added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a throwing error by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a ball hit by Fernandez that scored Marte
• A batter later, Arenado singled scoring Carroll
• Michael Soroka pitching line: 7IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 94 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr singled scoring Tyler Heineman\
• The Diamondbacks added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Tim Tawa doubled scoring James Mccann
• Paul Sewald pitched a perfect 9th for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Diamondbacks 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher, the most effective pitcher on the night, did his job, pitching an efficient scoreless inning, allowing just the one hit. I'm not a big fan of using openers, mainly because it wastes a bullpen arm and generally the bullpen has a heavier use night on bullpen days, especially if the pitcher designated as the bulk reliever has an off-night. 
• Eric Lauer, the bulk reliever today, gave up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Spencer Miles gave up 2 unearned runs after a bad throw from Vlad that Miles couldn't handle cleanly. The bullpen can't keep giving up runs, especially when the offense can't generate runs consistently
• On the ouch files, Daulton Varsho left the game prior to the bottom of the 3rd with left knee soreness. Vlad caught a ball awkwardly in the 8th, jamming a finger. The Blue Jays can ill-afford to lose either player long-term. Varsho's injury could necessitate George Springer getting reps in the outfield. Ernie Clement and Kazuma Okamoto can both play 1st base if Vlad needs to miss a day or two.
• Offensively Straw scored twice, including a 4th inning solo blast to draw the Blue Jays within a run. Nice strategy by Lenyn Sosa to drive in the 1st run via a sac bunt. All runs count whether the ball is hit 400 feet or a foot. A speedy player could force a bad throw.
• There were no ABS challenges today.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 6th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Diamondbacks righty Zac Gallen

Game #19 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-11) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (11-8)

 

Game #18 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-11) Brewers (10-8) - game recap

After dropping the game yesterday due to the inept offense and an unfortunate fielding error by catcher Brandon Valenzuela, the Blue Jays were looking to escape Milwaukee with their 2nd series win of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF (batting leadoff) and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Kazuma Okamoto at 1B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 2nd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd on a sac fly by Tyler Heineman that scored Andres Gimenez 
• The Brewers tied it up in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Luis Rengifo that scored Brice Turang
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 79 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Brandon Sproat pitching line: 6.2IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 75 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Brewers took the lead in the bottom of the 7th on a sac bunt by Joey Ortiz that scored Garrett Mitchell
• Angel Zerpa threw a scoreless 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Brewers 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Both starting pitchers were equally effective today with Patrick Corbin and Brandon Sproat both surrendering a run on a sac fly. Both starters gave up 4 hits and walked a batter while striking out 6. Sproat was a bit more efficient going an extra inning and throwing four less pitches and a better strike to ball ratio. For Corbin, this will likely be his last start in a Blue Jays uniform with Trey Yesavage expected to return to the blue jays rotation next week. Jose Berrios shouldn't be too far behind either as he starts a rehab assignment.  Eric Lauer will likely be moved to the bullpen as a long man once Yesavage and Berrios return from injury. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 2.1 innings. Tommy Nance took the loss.  It's time for the Blue Jays to start working on infield defense because you can't be giving up runs on sac bunts. Alejandro Kirk can't return fast enough from his broken thumb
• The offense needs to find ways to manufacture runs. You can't expect the pitchers to have their best stuff going every game. Take the top of the 3rd for example, the Blue Jays got runners on the corners with none out and could only manage to bring in the one run on a sac fly. Vlad hit into a double play in the 6th inning and Davis Schneider was stranded at 3rd because Jesus Sanchez lined out to end the inning. In the 1st, 2nd, 5th and 8th innings, the Blue Jays were retired in order. This begs the question of who the team is missing more: Bo Bichette, who afforded some protection in the lineup because he was so consistent in hitting, or Don Mattingly, who played a large role in the offenses success from s coaching perspective last year. 
• There were 7 ABS calls that were overturned and one ABS call confirmed. Among the catchers requesting the challenges, Brewers catcher William Contreras was 2-1 and Tyler Heineman was a perfect 2-2. Jesus Sanchez was successful in both his challenges and Vlad got one ABS call overturned. You will see more challenges on days where umpires with bad reputations of high inaccuracy of calling balls and strikes is behind the plate. It will be interesting to see which umpire has the most overturned calls at the end of the season. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Arizona where they will look to snap a 2-game skid. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, outscoring the Diamondbacks 18-14. Eric Lauer starts against Diamondbacks righty Michael Soroka.

Game #18 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-10) @ Milwaukee Brewers (9-8)

 

Game #17 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-9) @ Milwaukee Brewers (8-8)

 

Game #16 - Toronto Blue Jays (7-9) @ Milwaukee Brewers (8-8) - game recap

 

Myles Straw hit a 2-run double in the 10th inning to lead the Blue Jays to a 9-7 extra innings comeback win over the Brewers

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After an off-day/travel day, the Blue Jays opened a road trip beginning in Milwaukee.  The Brewers won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-11. The Blue Jays acquired infielder Lenyn Sosa from the White Sox for minor league outfielder Jordan Rich and a player to be named later or cash considerations. Shane Bieber was transferred to the 60-day IL. Infielder Tyler Fitzgerald was optioned to AAA-ball. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Sunday's loss. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game losing streak and start the week and road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Brewers took the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Jake Bauers hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Brice Turang and Gary Sanchez 
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Andres Gimenez slammed a solo jack to the second deck in right
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Daulton Varsho whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 3BB 5K 97 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Jacob Misiorowski pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 76 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Brewers added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Sanchez belted a solo hash to the second deck in left
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 8th on a ground out hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr that scored Lenyn Sosa
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 9th as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Myles Straw
• A batter later, Davis Schneider scored on a ground out hit by Gimenez
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Okamoto
• The Brewers got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Turang singled scoring Sal Frelick
• Three batters later, Brandon Lockridge doubled home Turang
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 10th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Clement
• Two batters later, Straw doubled scoring Guerrero Jr. and  Jesus Sanchez
• The Brewers got one back in the bottom half of the inning as William Contreras singled scoring Joey Ortiz
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Brewers 7 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. Not a super efficient game for him and the Blue Jays needed him to go deep into the game after the starters in the last week have been unable to do their job, due to playing through injury like max Scherzer did or recovering from a bad flu and not being 100& like Eric Lauer was or just bad play as Patrick Corbin did. Gausman has been the Blue Jays best pitcher, but he lost the battle of he aces on one bad pitch that was hammered to the deepest part of the ballpark for 3 runs. Too bad he can't hit too and help himself offensively.
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 7 over the last 5 innings. Jeff Hoffman blew his 3rd save of the season as he continued his uneven start to the season. Louis Varland did his darndest to let the Brewers extend the game and got fortunate to strike out Gary Sanchez, who represented the game winning run. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced, but Mason Fluharty and Tyler Rogers kept the Brewers off the scoreboard. Certainly Rogers should get consideration to take over the closers role if Hoffman continues to struggle in save situations.
• It was the bench guys that made the impact offensively today. Myles Straw scored the run that tied the game in the 9th and had a huge 2-run double in the 10th to give the Blue Jays critical insurance runs they needed. Davis Schneider hit a ground-rule double to set up Kazuma Okamoto's game-tying RBI and scored the run to put the Blue Jays on top for the first time all game. Nice to see the offense starting to wake up and come through in crucial times
• It was a bad night for ABS challenges with both teams going 0-fer. Maybe the ABS system is having a positive effect on the umpires accuracy calling balls and strikes. It might even lead to what we saw 15 years ago where catchers held their gloves steady where they caught the ball as opposed to the nonsense we see today with catchers dramatically moving their gloves back in the strike zone
• Once George Springer comes back, Nathan Lukes might be the odd man out given his performance all around. Davis Schneider is more useful given he can play 2B. Myles Straw has also been looking better than Lukes.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 2nd series win and 1st season series win of the season. Dylan Cease starts against Brewers righty Chad Patrick 

Game #16 - Toronto Blue Jays (6-9) @ Milwaukee Brewers (8-7)

 

Game #15 - Minnesota Twins (9-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-9) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement scored both runs for the Blue Jays in a losing effort as the Twins came from behind to rout the Blue Jays 8-2

After a rough loss due to a tough 3rd inning that snowballed on Eric Lauer, the Blue Jays were looking to end the home stand and week with a win and notch their 2nd series win of the season. George Springer was placed on the 10 day IL with a fractured big toe.  Elon Jimenez was recalled from AAA- ball and took Springer's place at DH. Max Scherzer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Kazuma Okamoto was back in the lineup and at the hot corner with Ernie Clement sliding back to 2B. Could the Blue Jays hit the road on a winning note and notch their 2nd series win of the season?  Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Twins took the lead in the top of the 2nd as Tristan Gray belted a 3-3-run jack to the second deck in right; also scoring Josh Bell and Matt Wallner
• The Twins added a run in the top of the 3rd as Kody Clemens smashed a solo blast to the second deck in right-center 
• Four batters later, Wallner singled scoring Trevor Larnach 
• A batter later, Luke Keaschall scored on a sac fly by Victor Caratini
• Two batters later, Brooks Lee doubled scoring Bell and Wallner 
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 2.1IP 5H 8R (all earned) 2BB 3K 68 pitches (41 for strikes)
• Taj Bradley pitching line: 5IP 5H 1R (earned) 4BB 7K 106 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Jesus Sanchez that scored Clement-
• Final score: Twins 8 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• A day after Eric Lauer had an inning snowball on him, Max Scherzer couldn't get out of the 3rd inning and gave up 8 runs on 6 hits, 2 walks and 2 hit batters over 2 innings. Scherzer looked great in the 1st inning, retiring the side in order and  making it look easy. From there, it was all down hill. It's hard to see a role for Scherzer once everyone is healthy. The Blue Jays certainly can't have Scherzer only lasting a couple of innings and making the bullpen pick up the slack every 5 days.
• The bullpen was sharp today, holding the Twins to 2 hits while walking none and striking out 9 over the last 6 innings once Joe Mantiply escaped the 3rd inning. Tommy Nance, Mason Fluharty, Louis Varland and Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect inning each and got a combined 8 strikeouts.
• The Twins were 1-2 on ABS challenges. The Blue Jays did not challenge any pitches today.
• Offensively, Daulton Varsho drove in a run right away in the 1st inning and Jesus Sanchez knocked in Ernie Clement, who deserves another day in the leadoff spot after a strong 3-5 effort and scoring both Blue Jays runs today
• Where was the effort from Vlad after he hit one off the end of the bat in the 9th inning. You have to run that one out. Yes, the Blue Jays were going to lose, but be a pro and try on every play. Vlad's supposed to be a team leader and should be leading by example.
• The Blue Jays were a pathetic 2-14 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays  open a 9-game road trip that begins in Milwaukee. The Brewers won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-11. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Brewers righty Jacob Misiorowski

Game #15 - Minnesota Twins (8-7) v. Toronto Blue Jays (6-8)

 

Game #14 - Minnesota Twins (8-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-8) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Twins came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-4

After a strong comeback win over the Twins yesterday thanks to a solid team effort offensively, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the winning streak to 3 games and notch their 2nd series win of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 2nd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.? 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Daulton Varsho whacked a 2-run blast to right-center and into the Twins bullpen; also scoring George Springer
•  The Twins got one back in the top of the 3rd as Brooks Lee smacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Five batters later, Byron Buxton was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Ryan Jeffers
• A batter later, Josh Bell singled scoring Austin Martin and Luke Keaschall
• Two batters later, Trevor Larnach hammered a three run bomb off the second deck in right; also scoring Jeffers and Bell 
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 7R (all earned) 5BB 3K 95 pitches (53 for strikes)\
• George Springer left the game after his second AB after fouling a ball off his big toe and fracturing it.
• Joe Ryan pitching line: 7IP2H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 91 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 9th as Jesus Sanchez drilled a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Twins 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 5.1 innings, giving up 7 runs on 5 hits while walking 5 and striking out 3. One inning, the 3rd, snowballed on him to the tune of 7 runs on 5 hits and 2 walks. Lauer actually retired 6 of the 7 batters he faced. Maybe he should have done what Shohei Ohtani did on Wednesday and tied his shoelaces a few times in the 3rd inning to slow things down a bit. That was important that Lauer pitch into the 6th inning with Scherzer due to start tomorrow and liable to blow out his arm the way the Blue Jays injury luck has gone this season (he is dealing with forearm tightnessm often a precursor to UCL tears).
• Spencer Miles was outstanding today, finishing the game to save the bullpen for tomorrow. Miles held the Twins to a hit and a walk while striking out 2 over 3.2 innings. The Bllue Jays could have some interesting decisions to make once they start getting some injured bodies back since there is only room for 5 pitchers in the rotation. The Blue Jays could opt for a 6-man rotation once or twice, but that's not sustainable since pitchers are creatures of habit and an extra day of rest doesn't necessarily mean they will have their best stuff going.
• And the injury bug continues to hit the Blue Jays hard. This time, George Springer went down with a fractured big toe after fouling a ball off it in his second AB. While Springer completed the at-bat, he was clearly in pain running to 1st base on the ground out. Best case scenario would see Springer back in 2-4 weeks if it's not a displaced fracture. Likely Eloy Jimenez gets the callup and you could see a platoon of players filling the void both at DH and at the leadoff spot.
• Offensively, Daulton Varsho went deep in the 1st inning and Jesus Sanchez went deep in the 9th inning. With Springer now probably out at least a couple of weeks, the Blue Jays are going to be searching for runs even more.
• The Blue Jays were a perfect 3-3 on ABS challenges and the Twins were successful on their one ABS challenge. I'm a little surprised teams aren't challenging more often, considering there are some bad/gullible umpires who routinely fall for catchers dramatically moving their gloves back in the strike zone. I guess with only 2 challenges, one would want to be pretty sure that the call is incorrect
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the home stand with a win and notch their 2nd series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Twins righty Taj Bradley.

Game #14 - Minnesota Twins (7-7) v. Toronto Blue Jays (6-7)

 

Game #13 - Minnesota Twins (7-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-7) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider scored twice and drove in 2 runs in a 10-4 comeback win over the Twins

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After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a series against the Twins. The Blue Jays took the season series last year outscoring the Twins 38-33. Patrick Corbin got the start with Patrick Valenzuela behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Twins took the lead in the top of the 1st as Ryan Jeffers whacked a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Austin Martin and Luke Keaschall
• The Twins added a run in the top of the 4th as Brooks Lee belted a solo jack to left
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• Two batters later, Davis Schneider doubled home Sanchez
• Two batters later, Andres Gimenez singled scoring Schneider
• A batter later, Brandon Valenzuela smashed a 2-run blast to right and into the Twins bullpen; also scoring Gimenez
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 4IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 3K 85 pitches (52 for strikes)
• Simeon Woods Richardson pitching line: 4IP 6H 5R (all earned) 1BB 2K 68 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Daulton Varsho drilled a solo blast to right-center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Schneider
• Three batters later, George Springer doubled scoring Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottiom of the 7th as Schneider singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Valenzuela
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Twins 4

My Take:

• Paatrick Corbin battled through 4 innings, giving up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. The Blue Jays might have rushed him to play in the majors with the current health of the starting rotation with 8 starters either too hurt to play, playing hurt or very ill. If Corbin plays well, he might get a spot in the bullpen, but he won't be in the rotation when Jose Berrios, Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber return from the IL.
• The bullpen slammed the door shut with 5 shutout innings, giving up 1 hit, walking 1 and striking out nine. Lefty Joe Mantiply, who struck out the side in his inning of work, was credited with the win. Brayden Fisher, who had 2 perfect innings and struck out 4 also deserves an honorable mention.
• The offense started rolling in the 5th inning and plated at leas one run in each of the last 4 innings. Davis Schneider (2RBI, 2 runs scored), Vlad (an RBI, 2 runs scored) and Brandon Valenzuela (2 runs scored, including a 2-run HR, the first of his big-league career) led the way. 
• Every Blue Jays starter except Kazuma Okamoto had a hit and either scored a run or drove in a run. It was a team effort tonight.
• The Twins were 1-2 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were 2-2 with ABS challenges.
• The Blue Jays were 5-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and to notch their 2nd series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Twins righty Joe Ryan

Game #13 - Minnesota Twins (7-6) v. Toronto Blue Jays (5-7)

 

Game #12 Los Angeles Dodgers (9-2) v. Toronto Blue Jays (4-7)

Game #11 - LA Dodgers (9-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (4-7) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 4-1 loss to the Dodgers

After a brutal blowout loss to the Dodgers after the bullpen imploded and the offense did next to nothing, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 5-game skid and avoid their 3rd series loss of the season. Lefty Patrick Corbin was activated from A-ball and lefty Josh Fleming was DFA'd. Addison Barger was placed on the 10-day IL with an ankle sprain and infielder Tyler Fitzgerald was recalled from AAA-ball. Alejandro Kirk had a screw placed in his thumb and is expected to miss 6 weeks. Cody Ponce could be done for the year after ACL surgery next week. Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid and avoid their 3rd series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Shohei Ohtani singled scoring Hyeseong Kim
• Two batters later,  Alex Freeland scored on a fielder's choice hit by Will Smith
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 5th as Freeland singled home Kim
• John Schneider was ejected in the top of the 5th for arguing a balk call against Kevin Gausman
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 84 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as George Springer doubled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 97 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 9th as Kyle Tucker singled scoring Freeland
• Edwin Diaz pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Dodgers 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 5.1 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. Other than the 3rd and 5th innings, Gausman held the Dodgers to a leadoff walk in the 1st to Shohei Ohtani. Very nice to see John Schneider defend him on a brutal balk call that eventually allowed the 3rd Dodger run to score. Gausman should be getting some Cy Young votes and early consideration to make the all-star team.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. Louis Varland was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. You simply cannot give up an insurance run to this team, which has shown why they won back-to-back world series.
• The Blue Jays offense continues to sputter. They are just 1-17 with the bases loaded. Myles Straw is the only one hitting over .300 and there are three players hitting below the Mendoza line, or .200 average: George Springer (.159), Daulton Varsho (.171), Nathan Lukes (.118) and Brandon Valenzuela (.143)
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 6 game losing streak and avoid being swept for the 2nd consecutive series. Dylan Cease starts against Dodgers righty Shohei Ohtani.

Game #11 Los Angeles Dodgers (8-2) v. Toronto Blue Jays (4-6)

 

Game #10 - LA Dodgers (8-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (4-6) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in a run in a 14-2 blowout loss to the Dodgers

After another tough loss to the White Sox thanks to an ailing Eric Lauer, who wasn't well enough to help the team, and the inept offence. Lefty Josh Fleming was added to the MLB roster. Righty Austin Voth was DFA'd. Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win and snap the four-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Dodgers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Kyle Tucker
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Ernie Clement singled scoring George Springer
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 2IP 2H 2R (both earned) 1BB 2K 36 pitches (24 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Freddie Freeman belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Shohei Ohtani
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Tucker that scored Dalton Rushing 
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 5th on a double play ball hit by Alex Freeland that scored Max Muncy
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 6th as Ohtani hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Four batters later, Alan Pages doubled scoring Tucker and Hernandez
• Justin Wrobleski pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 4BB 2K 78 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 7th as Rushing whacked a solo blast to right-center
• Four batters later, Freeman doubled scoring Heyseong Kim
• A batter later Hernandez singled home Tucker and Freeman
• The Dodgers added a run in the top of the 8th as Rushing hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 9th on a ground out hit by Andres Gimenez that scored Daulton Varsho
• Final score: Dodgers 14 Blue Jays 2

My Take:-

• Max Scherzer battled through 2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. His velocity was down and he gave up a 2-run HR to ex-Blue Jay Teoscar Hernandez, who knows the Rogers Centre well. Scherzer was forced to leave with forearm tightness, a classic precursor to UCL surgery. Apparently the team was so desperate for a starter that they let him pitch with the injury. A bit of deja vu, since Scherzer also didn't last long in his regular season debut last year. It's time to review the medical staff for letting players play hurt.
• The bullpen, running on fumes, gave up 12 runs on 15 hits while walking 4 and striking out 6 over the last 7 innings. To be fair, lower leverage relievers were used for the most part once the game was out of hand. The Blue Jays must have had a sense that Scherzer might not be able to go long since they recalled long reliever Josh Fleming, who gave the Blue Jays 3 innings. Tyler Heineman was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• The offense, even at its peak, probably wouldn't have overcome this deficit, but scoring twice won't be enough to defeat a deep Dodgers roster, who showed why they are 2-time defending champs tonight
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 5-game losing streak and avoid their 3rd series loss of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Dodgers righty Yoshinobu Yamaoto, the MVP of last year's world series, who was basically unhittable in that series.

Game #10 Los Angeles Dodgers (7-2) v. Toronto Blue Jays (4-5)

 

Game #9- Toronto Blue Jays (4-5) @ Chicago White Sox (4-5) - game recap

 

After another loss thanks to Brendon Little blowing another lead, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season. Little and righty Lazaro Estrada were optioned to AAA-ball. Lefty Joe Mantiply and righty Austin Voth were recalled from AAA-ball. Righty Cody Ponce and outfielder Anthony Santander were transferred to the 60-day IL. Eric Lauer got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the first time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Miguel Vargas tripled scoring Chase Miedroth 
• The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Lenyn Sosa doubled scoring Munetaka Murakami
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 0K 49 pitches (26 for strikes)
• The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Austin Hays singled scoring Luisangel Acuna
• Addison Barger left the game prior to the bottom of the 6th after injuring both ankles running the bases
• Davis Martin pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 2BB 6K 85 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Chris Murphy pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: White Sox 3 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 2 innings, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out none. A valiant effort despite being very ill to the point where he was struggling to keep smoothies down. The pressure is now on Max Scherzer to giving the Blue Jays some length as they begin an early season test against the defending World Series champs LA Dodgers. Could Lauer be asked to throw from the bullpen on Wednesday?
• The bullpen gave up a run on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6 over the last 6 innings. Joe Mantiply retired every batter he faced. If he keeps pitching like that, he'll earn some opportunity in higher leverage situatiions.
• The offense contnues to sputter early on. George Springer (.158 average) is hitting himself out of the leadoff spot. Daulton Varsho, in a contract year, hitting .172. The Blue Jays batters aren't showing the patience at the plate they had last year or hitting the good pitches they were  in 2025. 
• And the injury bug continues to strike early and often. This time, Addison Barger hurt both ankles running the bases. Here's hoping the flight back doesn't cause any swelling.
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, an early season test in a rematch of last year's world series. The Dodger won the regular season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-7. Max Scherzer starts against Dodgers lefty Justin Wrobleski