Game #86 - NY Mets (36-50) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-46) - game recap

Kevin Gausman fired 6 strong innings in a 3-0 shutout loss to the Mets

After eking out a win yesterday on the strength of a 6.2 inning effort from starter Trey Yesavage and just enough offense to carry the day, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to two games and notch their 10th series win and 4th season series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Sean Keys was added late lineup replacement for Vladimir Guerrero Jr, who was removed from the lineup with lower back tightness. Daulton Varsho was in CF, Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Andres Gimenez got the start at SS. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 10th series win and 4th season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mets opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Francisco Alvarez hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 96 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Nolan McLean pitching line: 6IP 5H 0R 2BB 7K 91 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Mets added a run in the top of the 7th as Luis Torrens whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right and into the Mets bullpen
• The Mets added a run in the top of the 9th on a sac fly by Brett Bat-y that scored AJ Ewing
• Devin Williams threw a scoreless 9th for his 12th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Mets 0

My Take:

• The pitching lines were virtually identical with both starters going 6 innings, giving up 5 hits, walking 2 and striking out 7. The difference was one of the hits off Kevin Gausman left the ballpark. Gausman also threw 5 more pitches (96 vesus 91) and got 2 more strikes (65 for Gausman). It was a better start for Gausman, who has experienced a regression in performance (due to age? injury? other factors?). Tonight's start could be important if the Blue Jays decide to sell at the deadline if they hit the all-star break still creeping along. 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. At this point, the Blue Jays are really just trying to work piecemeal with whichever armss are available and hope that the starteer is effective like Gausman was tonight. Buyers or sellers, the team needs some fresh bullpen arms for the stretch drive.
• The offense did nothing tonight, managing 8 total base runners. Luis Urias, who has made a good early impression since being acquired 10 days ago, was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times with 2 hits and a walk. The Blue Jays never advanced a runner past 2nd base
• The Blue Jays were a perfect 4-4 on ABS challenges with Alejandro Kirk overturning 3 calls for the pitchers. The Mets were unsuccessful on their only ABS challenge
• Quirky stat of the day: Both teams are a combined 0-25 with runners in scoring position. Will either team get a hit with a runner in scoring position tomorrow?
• Up next, the rubber match where the Blue Jays will be looking to extend the current and Canada day win streak to 2 games and notch their 10th series win and 4th season series win of the season. The Blue Jays have an overall record of 17-29 on Canada Day with no game on Canada Day in 1981 (player's strike) and 1993 (off-day) and 2020 (COVID-19 pandemic - season didn't start until end of July). It will be a bullpen day after the decision was made to move the struggling Patrick Corbin to the bullpen. Brayden Fisher, Spencer Miles or Adam Macko will likely come in as the opener. The Mets will counter with righty Freddy Peralta

Game #86 - New York Mets (39-50) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-45)

 

Just because I love the hell out of that guy...pew! pew!

Sometimes you CAN put lipstick on a pig.

Last night wasn't pretty but we'll take it.

We got out of the top of the 1st unscathed and then this little bit of magic happened...

Nothing like a little league homerun to fuel your offense...

Also encouraging was a decently deep effort by a starter in for what seems like ages.

So tonight...no Vlad due to back shittyness and the return of Dabs' new love Sean Keys.

Hopefully Gausman stops throwing that crappy slider too much for this start.

And Now An Important Message From JiTH Cares

As you know we at Jith Cares want everyone to have the utmost positive and nurturing experience here.

It's come to our attention that some (one) of our posters feel that they (he) are being personally attacked.

Let us stress that we cannot condone (unless it's funny) that kind of behaviour.

So in keeping with that spirit of harmony JiTH Cares has decided to issue each member here their very own JiTH protective interaction wear.

Stylish yet practical!!!

And for severe cases we offer this nifty little number...

Never again be afraid to get the last word in!!!

And now a word from JiTH Weather

If you live in Ontario it's gonna be stupid hot...so remember to hydrate!

Game #85 - NY Mets (35-50) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-45) - game recap

 

Trey Yesavage threw 6.2 strong innings in a 2-1 victory over the Mets

After dropping yesterdays game after yet another pathetic effort by the offense and a bizarre wild pitch where pinch runner Jarred Kelenic scored from second base when Alejandro Kirk couldn't find the ball, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 6-game skid and start the week with a win as they welcome Bo Bichette and the Mets back to Toronto. Bichette hit .294 with 111HR and 437RBI over 7 seasons. He was arguably the Blue Jays most consistent hitter in most seasons, save for 2024 when he missed half the season with a calf injury. His defense left a lot to be desired, but I bet any Blue Jays fan would overlook that for a consistent bat. The Mets swept the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 10-3. Trey Yesavage got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate.  Myles Straw was in CF, Ernie Clement was at SS and Luis Urias got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 6-game skid and start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a little league HR that was scored as a triple and fielding error my Mets CF AJ Ewing
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a sac fly by Myles Straw that scored Luis Urias 
• Sean Manaea pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned)  2BB 4K 90 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Mets got one back in the top of the 7th as Francisco Lindor whacked a solo blast to right and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 0BB 3K 94 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 17th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Mets 1

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage pitched 6.2 strong innings, giving up a run on 3 hitas while walking none and striking out 3. The Blue Jays needed this kind of performance from Yesavage after a couple of rough outings meant heavy use on a taxed bullpen. He retired 11 in a row at one point.
• The bullpen threw 2.1 scoreless innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking out two. Mason Fluharty pitched a third of an inning but technically didn't retire the only batter he faced since Brandon Valenzuela gunned down one of the runners that were on base when he entered the game to end the 7th inning. Louis Varland is almost a lock to be at the all-star game in Philadelphis next month.
• The offense scored one ugly run on a George Springer triple that was booted around in the outfield so badly that Springer was able to score standing up and a sac fly. This is just not sustainable and if some of the bats don't get going soon, it'll be too late.
• Bo Bichette in his return to Toronto was quiet at the plate with an 0-4 effort. He immensly enjoyed the tribute video, watching from the outfield, tapping his heart once and then saluting the fans. Who knows, maybe there will be a reunion in a year or two.
• The Mets were 1-3 on ABS challenges and George Springer was unsuccessful on the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 10th series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Mets righty Nolan McLean

Game #85 - New York Mets (35-49) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-45)

 

Let me tell you about this one catch I made....

I'll give this team some credit...at least they found a creative and unusual way to lose yesterday.

So they're now staring a six game losing streak in the eyes and wondering if the Mets (with Bo in tow) will be the panacea they so desperately need.

I have no idea how this series is going to play out but knowing 2026 it may get ugly.

Also ugly is the starting line-up but get used to it cuz Barger is broken again and you'll get more Sosa before him and like it.

JiTH Social Calendar

Semi-respected poster IAO has informed us that he's soon leaving for an Alaskan cruise.

We wish his family all the best of luck while they spend "quality" time with him.

We here at JiTH will tepidly debate the merits of his lost input while he's away.

In the interests of science I've dusted off the JiTH ChronoViewer to take a sneak peek at IAO's future trip.

Yup...pretty much as I thought.

And if the game really lacks any appeal for you there's this handy little thing to amuse you...

Game #84 - Texas Rangerss (42-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-45) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit a 2-run HR in a 3-2 loss to the Rangers

After another loss due to ome rough pitching and not enough offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 5-game skid and avoid their 8th season series loss of the season and being swept for the 2nd time this season. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (George Springer served as DH today). Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid and avoid their 8th season series loss of the season and being swept for the 2nd time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Joc Pederson whacked a solo blast to right
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 6th as Elias Diaz singled scoring Brandon Nimmo
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 4BB 4K 92 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Kumar Rocker pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 1BB 5K 92 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 8th as Nathan Lukes whacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring George Springer
• The Rangers took the lead in the top of the 9th on a wild pitch by Louis Varland that scored Jarred Kelenic
• Tyler Alexander threw a perfect 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber battled threw 4.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 4. A bit of a rough 1st inning, gettung taken deep on the game's first pitch then loading the bases on a hit and a pair of walks but he limited the damage to a run. He gor better as the game went on and retired 6 in a row at one point.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over the last 3.2 innings. Baseball can be such a cruel sport sometimes. Louis Varland gave up a double then uncorked a wild pitch that went into the dugout to allow the runner to score from 2nd base. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced
• Another game another pitiful effort from the offense. Nathan Lukes went deep in the 8th inning for 2 runs and that was it. Only 4 Blue Jays got hits and reached base and Vlad wasn't one of them - another 0-4 day. Maybe he needs a day off or perhaps a 10-day IL stint.
• The Blue Jays were a perfect 4-4 on ABS challenges with Alejandro Kirk getting 3 calls overturned. Rangers catcher Elias Diaz was 0-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays welcome the NY Mets and Bo Bichetter back to Toronto. The Mets swept the season series last year, outscooring the Blue Jays 10-3. Trey Yesavage starts against Mets lefty Sean Manaea

Game #84 - Texas Rangers (41-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-44)

 

Spell my last name correctly or I'll make fun of Dabs.

I gotta admit...this team is really hard to watch right now.

I thought we'd go at least 7-3 on this homestand but I was obviously wrong.

Losing always sucks but it's the way we're doing it...crappy starting pitching, lack of timely hitting, indifferent play...it's depressing.

Normally I'd be optimistic about the All Star break coming up but there's the matter of a pesky little nine game west coast trip to get out of the way first.

That might very well be the end of the season.

C'MON GUYS!!! GET YOUR SHIT TOGETHER!!

On a positive note it's good for you soccer fans to at least have the World Cup to distract you from the Jays.

Sadly the thought of watching either makes me want to scoop my eyes out with a melon baller.

SPECIAL BEHIND THE SCENES ACTION!

   Actual footage of Hot Dog filling out the line up.

Game #83 Texas Rangers (41-42) Blue Jays (39-44) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk hit aa solo HR, his 50th career hit, in a 7-4 loss to the Rangers

After another loss due to an ugly start from Patrick Corbin, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4-game skid anrd avoid their 12th series loss of  the season. Infielder Sean Keys was added to the MLB roster (and got the start at 1B with Vlad getting the half  day off as DH), Davis Schneider was optioned to AAA-ball, Jesus Sanchez was placed on the 10-day IL with an ankle sprain and Yohendrick Pinago was recalled from AAA-ball (and got the start in LF). Dylan Cease got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid their 12th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights: 

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jake Burger singled scoring Brandon Nimmo
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 5th as Burger singled scoring Josh Jung
• Two batters later, Alejandro Osuna singled scoring Nimmo and Burger 
• A batter later,  Elias Diaz doubled scoring Ezequiel Duran and Osuna
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 4.2IP 4H 4R (all earned) 5BB 10K 107 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Cal Quantrill pitching line: 4IP 2H 0R 1BB 5K 55 pitches (36 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Yohendrick Pinago hammered a 2-run run bomb to right-center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 6th as Corey Seager smacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Rangers bullpen
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk belted s solo jack to left
• Four batters later, Andres Gimenez singled scoring Sean Keys
• Tyler Alexander threw a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Dylan Cease battled through 4.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking 5 and striking out 10. Not a great 1st inning, walking 3 batters, but at least he was able to limit the damage to 1 run. Not so much in the 5th when the Rangers scored 5 times in the inning, three of which were charged to Cease. Good sign he was racking up the strikeouts. Locate the ball a bit more and maybe he prevents a few baserunners.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3 over the last 4.1 innnings. Mason Fluharty was only able to retire one batter and Brayden Fisher was taken deep the next inning to put the game out of reach. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• What to do with Vlad. 0-5 today and not hustling to first meant a double play that could havve been prevented had he run with a bit of effort. He should definitely be moved down the order and maybe get a day off tomorrow. Alejandro Kirk (solo HR) and Yohendrick Pinago (2-run HR) did the damage offensively
• Alejandro Kirk was 3-1 on ABS challenges and Rangers catcher Elias Diaz was 2-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 5 game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season. Shane Bieber starts against Rangers righty Kumar Rocker

Game #83 - Texas Rangers (40-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-43)

 

Best stuff in the organization...

This team is maddening as all hell. 

From .500 to a four game losing streak.

I've chilled on the .500 thing....let's get out of 1st without giving up 3 or more runs....baby steps.

As you can see they've called up Dab's flavour of the second: Sean Keys.

Pinango is back and whipping boy Sanchez is on the IL.

Hot Dog Jr. has been optioned back to AAA.

And now some sad news to report...

If you've read the game re-cap thread you'll see that beloved poster IAO has left us permanently and will never....hhmmm??....what's that?

FFS..

And since we've never determined IAO's gender conclusively...

Lastly, I'll leave you with some solid advice for the Jays...

Game #82 - Texas Rangerss (40-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-43) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run double in a 5-4 loss to the Rangers

After a loss due to an ugly start from ace Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and snap the 3-game skid. Lefty Adam Macko was recalled from AAA-ball and righty Simeon Woods Richardson was DFA'd. Patrck Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Brandon Nimmo doubled scoring Wyatt Langford
• Two batters later, Justin Foscue singled scoring Josh Jung
• A batter later, Ezequiel Duran singled home Nimmo
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Fosque hammered a 2-run bomb to the 3rd deck in right; also scoring Jake Burger
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 4.1IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 5K 94 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Nathan Eovaldi pitching line: 7IP 5H 0R 1BB 9K 92 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 9th as Vladimir Gurrero Jr. doubled scoring Andres Gimenez and George Springe 
• A batter later, Kazuma Okamoto hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also snoring Guerrero Jr
• Jacob Latz threw a scoreless 9th for his 16th save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 5 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Corbin put the Blue Jays behind instantly, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits and a hit batter in the opening inning. Justin Fosque took him deep for 2 more runs against in the 3rd inning. He is likely the move when Max Scherzer returns. Perhaps they need to use him as a bulk reliever like they did with Eric Lauer.
• The bullpen threw 4.2 scoreless innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking out 5. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced. You have to wonder if the Blue Jays consider swapping Corbin and Spencer Miles in 5 days. Corbin is simply not consistently getting batters out and Miles has done well as a fifth starter/platoon guy. The team needs to do something with the rotation being so inconsistent, other than Dylan Cease.
• For the second straight night, a late game rally by the offense fell short a run. Vlad (2-run double) and Kazuma Okamoto (2-run HR) did the damage. I can see hitting coach David Popkins being a scapegoat if the Blue Jays miss the playoffs
• The Rangers were 1-2 on ABS challenges and Blue Jays catcher Brandon Valenzuela was unsuccessful on both ABS challenges he attempted
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and avoid losing their 12th series of the season. Dylan Cease starts against Rangers righty Cal Quantrill

Game #82 - Texas Rangers (39-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-42)

 

What Blue Jays record do I hold?

Two steps forward eight steps back.

Let's try to get above .500 before the end of this homestand....plz??

Adam Macko is back and SWR is DFA'd...baseball is a funny sport.

On the bright side at least Sanchez isn't in the.....oh...shit.

Game #81 - Texas Rangers (39-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-42) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto hit a 2-run HR in the 9th in a 6-5 loss to the Rangers

After dropping a winnable series thanks to a leaky bullpen and the inept offence, the Blue Jays were looking to open the next series against the Texas Rangers with a win. The Blue Jays took the season series last year, outscoring the Rangers 28-20. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in CF. Ernie Clement got the start at SS. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend before Canada Day with a win and snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Joc Pederson hammered a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• The Rangers added 3 runs in the top of the 3rd as Wyatt Langford whacked a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Nicky Lopez and Pederson
• Three batters later, Jake Burger smacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Corey Seager
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 5th on a sac fly by Davis Schneider that scored Kazuma Okamoto
• A batter later, Myles Straw doubled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Nathan Lukes
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 10H 6R (all earned) 2BB 4K 99 pitches (67 for strikes)
• MacKenzie Gore pitching line: 7IP 4H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 98 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 9th as Okamoto hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Jacob Latz got the last 3 outs for his 15th save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 6 Blue Jays 5

My Take:-

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 6 runs on 10 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. It's troubling the decline Gausman has had this season. Last year, he was consistently getting strikeouts and pitching quality starts of 3 runs or less in at least 6 innings. He has been getting hit hard this season, getting taken deep three times tonight for the 6 runs against. Hopefully this is an age-related regression and Gausman isn't playing through an injury.
• Simeon Wood Richardson threw 3 scoreless innings walking 4 and striking out 1. Spencer Miles and SWR will be invaluable if they can eat innings to allow the heavily used relievers such as Jeff Rogers, Mason Fluharty and Louis Varland days off. Getting fresh arms at the trade deadline will be crucial.
• Kazuma Okamoto, who should be an all-star as a reserve if not voted as a starter, came up clutch again with a 2-run bomb to straightaway center to pull the Blue Jay within a run in a game they had no business being in with the inept offense. Myles Straw also doubled in a pair to put the Blue Jays within 3 runs in the 5th inning. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer were a combined 0-8 with 3 strikeouts. If the two have any integrity, they will decline being a starter in the all-star game. The all-star game - and the starter selections, at times amount to a popularity contest and don't necessatily reflect the best players that season. Anyway, the team needs Vladdy and Springer at their very best post-all star break since they will be fighting for a wild card spot.
• The Blue Jays successfully overturned both their ABS challenges and Rangers catcher Kyle Higashioka was 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and snap the 3-game skid. Patric Corbin starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi

Game #81 - Texas Rangers (38-42) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-41)

 

                                     

You know me....you hate me.

What can you say about last night? At least we didn't leave a ton of runners on base.

The Jays now find themselves two games under .500 and seemingly unconcerned about it.

If only there was a way to convey a message to them.

A message about goals you'd like achieve before time runs out.

You could even organize those goals...nah...they'd never listen to me so...

And here's the Jays bucket list...

Game #80 - Houston Astros (39-43) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-41) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit a solo HR in a 3-1 loss to the Astros 

After dropping yesterday's rare Tuesday matinee due to the bullpen blowing up with Tyler Rogers blowing the save and Brayden Fisher taking the L after ex- Blue Jay Joey Loperfido hit a bomb off him, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 11th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 11th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Isaac Paredes doubled scoring Jeremy Pena
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes whacked a solo blast just over the wall in right
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.2IP 2H 1R (earned) 5BB 5K 105 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Mike Burrows pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 93 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Astros retook the lead in the top of the 8th on a throwing error by Jeff Hoffman that scored Joey Loperfido
• The Astros added a run in the top of the 9th as Pena singled scoring Brice Matthews
• Josh Hader pitched a scoreless 9th for his 6th save of the season
• Final score: Astros 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Both starting pitchers had pretty similar pitching lines tonight with Trey Yesavage and Mike Burrows both giving up a run on 2 hits. Both threw 61 strikes as well. Burrows went a bit deeper in the game completing 6 inningd while Yesavage was an out shy of 6 complete innings. Yesavage's pitch count was higher since he walked 5 batters and also struck out 5 batters. The Blue Jays needed some length from Yesavage after a long game yesterday that went into the 11th inning.
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 3.1 innings. Real unfortunate and terrible decision by Jeff Hoffman, who took the loss, and rightly so, after throwing the ball away on a pick-off attempt ... to 3rd base! There's a reason why pickoffs aren't attempted at 3rd base. First, they are not exactly practiced on a regular basis. Second, it was  highly unlikely Joey Loperfido was going to steal home in that situation. Mason Fluharty didn't have his best stuff going either, giving up an insurance run on a hit and 2 walks. Tommy Nance retired every batter he faced.
• Four total bases runners and one was a solo HR and facing the worst starting pitcher in the majors. Tonight, the Blue Jays made him look like Cy Young. They need to bring in Vlad Sr. to give his son a good pep talk. Maybe the hall of famer can even fix his swing. This $500 million contract is aging like vinegar and not a top quality vinegar.
• The Blue Jays were 1-2 on ABS challenges and Astros catcher Yainer Diaz was 1-1 on ABS challenges.
• Up next, a 4-game series against the Texas Rangers. The Blue Jays took the season series last year, outscoring the Rangers 28-20. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Rangers lefty MacKenzie Gore.

Game #80 - Houston Astros (38-43) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-40)

 

"Hello there! My name is....Dr. Death!!"

Last night was a bit of a kick in the pants to say the least.

The goal to reach .500 beckons to us yet again.

Hopefully the boys have put yesterday behind them we'll reach the promised land.

I also hope they don't leave a crap load of runners on base again.

And now onto a more serious matter...

As you most likely know, we here at JiTH Cares are concerned about the quality of life for our fellow posters.

In accordance with that philosophy we offer this special...

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT !!!!

As a service to fellow posters that are not tech savvy we offer this following update:

At the time of this game thread posting the score in the Houston Astros - Toronto Blue Jays game is:

0 - 0

Hang in there Joe. We got your back!!

- Game #79 - Houston Astros (38-43) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-40) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto drove in 3 runs and scored a run in a 9-7 extra innngs loss to the Astros

After prevailing to open the week versus the Texas teams on the strength of some productive outs in the form of three sac flies, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 11th series win of the season and get above .500 for the first time since April 4th, which came the day Alejandro Kirk went on the IL with a fractured thumb. It was a rare Tuesday matinee with a world cup game happening later on in the day. Shane Bieber came off the 60-day IL (and made the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate). Righty Lazaro Estrada was optioned to AAA-ball and righty Hayden Juenger was DFA'd. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. The newly acquired Luis Urias got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 11th series win of the season and get above .500 for the first time since April 4th? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Isaac Paredes singled scoring Jose Altuve
• The Astros added a run in the top of the 4th as Yandy Diaz smacked a solo blast to left and into the Astros bullpen
• A batter later, Cam Smith hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• A batter after that, Taylor Trammell whacked a solo blast to right
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 3.2IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 2K 75 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Luis Urias belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• Peter Lambert pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 6K 92 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 7th as Varsho hammered a 2-run bomb to the 2nd deck in right; also scoring Kazuma Okamoto
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Okamoto singled scoring George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Astros got one back in the top of the 9th on a catcher's interference call against Brandon Valenzuela that forced in Altuve
• A batter later, Yordan Alvarez scored on a sac fly by Smith
• The Astros took the lead in the top of the 11th as Joey Loperfido hammered a 3-run bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Altuve and Alvarez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as  Okamoto singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Astros 9 Blue Jays 7 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Shane Bieber battled through 3.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits while walking none and striking out 4. There has to be concern about his fastball velocity being too close to that of his off-speed pitches. It's hard to get big league hitters out when they are seeing pitches roughly the same speed and not located well. Case in point, the back-to-back-to-back home runs he coughed up in the 4th inning. Clearly the Astros could see Bieber was not able to get his velo up and they weren't missing the mistakes. 
• he bullpen gave up 5 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 8 over the last 7.1 innings. Tyler Rogers blew his 3rd save of the season and Brayden Fisher took the loss after ex-Blue Jay Joey Loperfido annihilated a pitch into the second deck for 3 runs. Mason Fluharty was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• Offensively, Kazuma Okamoto (3RBI, run scored), Luis Urias (2-run HR) and Daulton Varsho (2-run HR) led the way. George Springer and Vlad went a combined 2-11 with a walk and 3 runs scored.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Brandon Valenzuela had a hit
• The Astros were 2-2 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 3-14 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to get back to .500 and notch their 11th series win of the season. Trey Yesaavage starts against Astros righty Mike Burrows

Game #79 Houston Astros (37-43) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-39)

C'mon....you remember him...don't you?

Back at .500...now let's get over the hump and start curb stomping some of these teams!

Also of note is that this is Bieber's first start so hopefully he doesn't get any of that yucky 2026 mojo on him.

Hopefully IAO has noticed the odd start time but of course he has duties and responsibilities to attend to!!

Duty bound IAO...Yes!!! He's really a cat!!

Game #78 - Houston Astros (37-43) @ Toronto Blue Jays (39-39) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto hit a solo HR in a 4-2 comeback win over the Astros 

After a rain-out yesterday, the Blue Jays returned home to start a 10-game, 3-team homestand as they welcomed the Astros to town. The Astros won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 21-14. The Blue Jays aquired Luis Urias from the Diamondbacks and Yohendrick Pinago was optioned to AAA-ball to make room on the roster. Dylan Cease got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF. Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Astros opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Isaac Paredes singled scoring Jeremy Pena
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 2nd as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Hunter Brown pitching line: 3IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 85 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored Andres Gimenez
• The Astros tied it in the top of the 6th as Jose Altuve singled scoring Yordan Alvarez
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 4BB 8K 110 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Myles Straw that scored Daulton Varsho
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored George Springer
• Louis Varland pitched a scoreless 9th for his 16th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Astros 2

My Take:

• Dylan Cease battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 4 and striking out 8. For a bit there it looked like a taxed bullpen would need to record at least 12-15 outs, but Cease was able to make enough pitches to almost make 18 outs or 6 innings. You have to wonder if the extra day of rest may have impacted Cease. Pitchers are very much creatures of habit and throwing off the routine by adding an extra day of rest doesn't necessarily mean that Cy Young will be on the mound. Also, pitchers usually need to figure out which pitches are working on a given day.
• The bullpen threw 3.1 scoreless innings, giving up 2 hits, walking 2 and striking out 1. Tyler Rogers got into a rare jam by allowing 2 hits and walking a batter, but he was able to pitch his way out of the inning. Brayden Fisher, who retired every batter he faced, was credited with the win. Loois Varland should be on the all-star tea. He's been magnificent all season.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got three productive outs with Vlad, Myles Straw and Alejandro Kirk all hitting sac flies. Kazuma Okamoto with his 17th HR of the season, more than double the total of George Springer, who has gone deep 7 times this season. What's it going to take to get Vlad going? It might be a good idea to let him hit lower in the lineup and maybe have a batting threat like Okamoto hit in front of him.
• The Blue Jays lost their ABS challenges. The Astros were an impressive 5-1 on ABS challenges. As I mentioned at the beginning of the season, in games where the home plate umpire of the day has a bad reputation for ball-strike accuracy, you will see more ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position. The team is definitely missing Don Mattingly
• Up next, a rare matiness with the World Cup game scheduled in Toronto. The Blue Jays will be looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and get above .500 for the first time since April 4th and to notch their 11th series win of the season. Shane Bieber makes his season debut against Atros righty Peter Lambert