Game #68 - Philadelphia Phillies (36-31) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-35) - game recap

 

Brandon Valenzuela drove in the winning run in a 3-2 comeback walk-off win over the Phillies

After a loss yesterday due to Patrick Corbin imploding, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 9th series loss of the season. Dylan Cease was activated from the 15-day IL (and got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate) and Adam Macko was optioned to AAA-ball. George Springer got the full day off with Vlad getting the half day off as DH and  Chatles McAdoo at 1B. Jesus Sanchez was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and Yohendrick Pinago was in RF. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 9th series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Phillies opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Brandon Marsh doubled scoring Trea Turner
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 6th as Jesus Sanchez belted a solo jack to right-center
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 6IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 11K 93 pitches (60 for strikes)
• Zack Wheeler pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 0BB 5K 96 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Phillies took the lead in the top of the 9th as Bryson Stott doubled scoring Bryce Harper 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning on a wild pitch by Jhoan Duran that scored Myles Straw
• Same batter, Brandon Valenzuela singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Phillies 2

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 11. He had out streaks of 7 and 8 batters. Cease has been the Blue Jays best starting pitcher and a great off-season signing by Ross Atkins. He should be considered for the all-star game.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. It's amazing how often a leadoff walk comes back to bite a pitcher in the ass. Louis Varland, who should not only be an all-star, he should be the reliever of the year, walked Bryce Harper on 4 pitches to start the 9th, saw him score when Bryson Stott lined a double opposite field. Sometimes you just have to tip your cap to a nice swing on a solid pitch. Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced
• The offense came through when it mattered with a 2-run rally in the 9th. Brandon Valenzuela will only get credited for one RBI, but he played a huge role in Myles Straw scoring on the wild pitch to tie the game by waving the pinch runner home. Jesus Sanchez took starter Zack Wheeler deep for the other Blue Jays run on the day. Vlad hit leadoff and the move didn't really work with him going 1-4 on the day.
• Harper was successful on the Phillies only ABS challenge while the Blue Jays were 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 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. Max Scherzer starts against Phillies lefty Jesus Luzardo

Game #68 Philadelphia Phillies (36-30) v. Toronto Blue Jays (32-35)

 

Game #67 - Philadelphia Phillies (36-30) @ Toronto Blue Jays (32-35) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a solo HR in a 5-2 loss to the Phillies

After a huge win thanks to a 5- run 6th inning rally yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the homestand as they welcomed the Phillies to town. The Phillies won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 32-20. Tommy Nance was activated off the IL and Yariel Rodriguez was DFA'd. Patrick Corbin got the start with  Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Yohendrick Pinango was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF

Game Highlights:

• The Phillies opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Adolis Garcia whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Bryson Stott
• The Phillies added a run in the top of the 3rd as Alec Bohm singled scoring Trea Turner
• A batter later, JT Realmuto singled scoring Bryce Harper 
• A batter after that, Brandon Marsh scored on a bases loaded walk to Stott
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out hit by Yohendrick Pinago that scored Myles Straw
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 3IP 4H 5R (all earned) 4BB 3K 79 pitches (44 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays  got one back in the bottom of the 5th as Ernie Clement whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Christopher Sanchez pitching line: 7IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 10K 107 pitches (75 for strikes)
• Jhoan Duran threw a scoreles 9th for his 16th save of the season
• Final score: Phillies 5 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin was lit up for 5 runs on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over 3 innings. This is likely his last appearance in a Blue Jays uniforn with Dylan Cease and Max Scherzer both coming off the IL the next 2 days. Corbin did a nice job overall filling in when the Blue Jays were razor thin in the rotation with Jose Berrios, Cody Ponce, Scherzer and Cease all on the IL simultaneously at one point. The Blue Jays won't carry more than 6 starters in the rotation at a time and the bullpen has some long man options in SWR and Spencer Miles.
• The bullpen threw 6 scoreless innings, giving up 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 5. SWR looked fantastic in his Blue Jays debut (I bet the team was secretly hoping he would crash and burn to give them an easier DFA when they need to open a roster spot. Management is going to have some very difficult choices to make in the coming days as the injured players come back. Maybe there's a reliever, like Trevor Hoffman, who might be playing through an injury they can put on the IL, though he could be DFA'd. Maybe Scherzer retitres if his physical issues creep up again this week. Or the team could option a player who has options left.
• Yohendrick Pinago, another player likely to be optioned, had a very up and down day. He flubbed a fly ball in LF that he should have caught in the 1st inning, knocked in the Blue Jays 1st run in the 3rd inning on a productive ground out and legged out a double into a triple after that liner was misplayed by Adolis Garcia. Ernie Clement went deep in the 5th inning for the Blue Jays other run 
• George Springer and Vlad were a combined 0-8 with 5 strikeouts - not good enough. Vlad takes the most heat being the team's top paid player, getting what Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge are making but not giving the team the same bang fot the buck. He is still at 3 home runs on the season and all on the road. He'll likely be voted in as an all-star because the starting lineup amounts to a popularity contest at times. Springer isn't much better, barely hitting above the Mendoza line of .200. His resurgance from last season did not continue into this season.
• Tyler Heineman started what could be his last game in a Blue Jays uniform with Alejandro Kirk expected to come off the IL against the Yankees Friday. He was 0-2 today at the plate and did not attempt any ABS challenges. Simply put, rookie catcher Brandon Valenzuela has outplayed him and forced his way to the backup role behind Alejandro Kirk.
• The Phillies were 2-1 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays did not attempt any ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 9th series loss of the season. Dylan Cease starts against Phillies righty Zack Wheeler.

Game #67 Philadelphia Phillies (35-30) v. Toronto Blue Jays (32-34)

 

Game #66 - Baltimore Orioles (31-35) @ Toronto Blue Jays (32-34) - game recap

 

Brandon Valenzuela drove in a pair of runs and scored once in a 6-4 comeback win over the Orioles

After a huge win thanks to Ernie Clement having a huge day at the plate and in the field, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 9th series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Yohendrick Pinago was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 9th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Colton Cowser smacked a solo blast to right-center and into the Orioles bullpen
• Three batters later, Blaze Alexander doubled scoring Jackson Holliday
• A batter later, Taylor Ward whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Holliday
• Kevin Gausman pitching line 5IP 5H 4R (all earned) 0BB 5K 93 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Yohendrick Pinago hammered a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• Four batters later, Jesus Sanchez scored on a ground out hit by Brandon Valenzuela
• A batter later, Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Ernie Clement
• A batter after that, Andrea Gimenez doubled scoring Okamoto
• A batter later, Nathan Lukes singled home Gimenez
• Shane Bas pitching line: 5.2IP 7H 5R (1 earned) 1BB 3K 81 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Valenzuela belted a solo jack to right
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 11th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Orioles 4

My Take:

• It was another subpar performance for Kevin Gausman, who notoriously struggles against the O's, the team that drafted him in 2012 and that he played for his first 5.5 seasons. Today, he gave up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 5. He retired 12 of the first 13 batters he faced before the Orioles finally got to him. Unfortunate inning for Gausy, who has been regressing this season. He will likely be traded at the deadline if the Blue Jays are out of the playoff race. 
• The bullpen threw 4 scoreless innings, giving up 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 5. The rubber arms in Tyler Rogers and Louis Varlannd combined to get the last 8 outs and Rogers got out of the mess created by Connor Seabold in the 7th inning. Adam Macko shoud be tried in some higher leverage situations.
• The offense rallied for 5 runs in the 6th inning and Brandon Valenzuela is doing absolutely everything in his power to be Alejandro Kirk's backup in a week or so. He drove in a pair, including a massive home run in the 8th for a 2-run cushion. Also made a nice play in the field. Very telling he started 3 straight games - something not seen very often with such a physically demanding position
• The Orioles successfully overturned both their ABS challenges and the Blue Jays were unsuccessful on both their ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays welcome the Phillies to town. The Phillies won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 32-20. Patrick Corbin starts against Phillies lefty Christopher Sanchez

Game #66 Baltimore Orioles (31-34) v. Toronto Blue Jays (31-34)

 

Game #65 - Baltimore Orioles (31-34) @ Toronto Blue Jays (31-34) - game recap

Ernie Clement scored three runs and drove in three runs, including a 3-run HR in a 6-4 comeback win over the Orioles

After an ugly blowout loss yesterday due to Trey Yesavage and the bullpen imploding, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. It was a bullpen day with Brayden Fisher serving as the opener and Patrick Valenzuela behind the plate. Myles Straw got the start in CF. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Brayden Fisher pitching line: 1IP 1H 0R 1BB 2K 18 pitches (10 for strikes)
• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Colton Cowser belted a solo jack to right-center
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 2nd as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Clement whacked a 3-run blast to left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Jesus Sanchez
• Three batters later, Andres Gimenez singled scoring Brandon Valenzuela. Okamoto was thrown out at 3rd base on the play
• Kyle Bradish pitching line: 4IP 9H 5R (all earned) 3BB 3K 81 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a sac fly by Valenzuela that scored Clement
• The Orioles got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Pete Alonso smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center and into the Orioles bullpen; also scoring Gunnar Henderson
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 7th as Blaze Anderson smacked a solo blast to left-center
• Louis Varland threw a perfect 9th for his 10th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Orioles 4

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher pitched his way out of a jam after a leadoff walk and base hit to the first 2 batters to start the game. Hopefully this is the last time a bullpen game is needed. Dylan Cease should make his next start barring a setback with the hamstring and Max Scherzer should be set in a start or two. Shane Bieber has started a rehab assignment and could be back either during the next road trip or the next homestand. Just hate seeing a reliever wasted right away.
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 10 over the last 8 innings. Jeff Hoffman continues to be a frustration as he gave up a 2-run HR after entering the game. It's getting to the point where he might be the odd man out when Yimi Garcia is ready to play again. You can't get much lower leverage than a 5-run lead and a runner on 1st that should have been erased with an inning ending double play. Louis Varland is turning into the Blue Jays best reliever and arguably should have been the closer right from the start of the season.
• It was the Ernie Clement show today, scoring three times and driving in three on a 3-run blast in left and he made a fantastic defensive play at 2B. He's been invaluable to the team with the ability to play the hot corner, 2nd base and SS. His bat has been inconsistent at times this season, but he has the ability to be a difference msaker at the plate. He's a bit of a quirky hitter too since he likes to use other players bats when things aren't going his way. Hey whatever works!
• Adley Rutschman was 1-1 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays did not challenge any pitches today
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 9th series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Orioles righty Shane Baz

Game #65 Baltimore Orioles (31-33) v. Toronto Blue Jays (30-34)

Game #64 - Baltimore Orioles (31-33) @ Toronto Blue Jays (30-34) - game recap

 

Brandon Valezuela hit a 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behnid to rout the Blue Jays  13-3

After salvaging a game against the mighty Chris Sale on a team effort offensively, the Blue Jays returned home as they opened a 9-game, 10-day homestand against the Orioles. The two teams split the 4 games in Baltimore a week ago with the Orioles outscoring the Blue Jays 21-18. Chad Dallas was optioned to AAA-ball and Simeon Woods Richardson reported to the team after the trade with the Twins on Wednesday. Trey Yesavage got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Adley Rutschman hammered a solo bomb to  dead center
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. that scored George Springer
• Daulton Varsho left the game prior to the bottom of the 4th with wrist inflammation
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Brandon Valenzuela belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Kazuma Okamtoto
• The Orioles tied it in the top of the 6th as Rutschman doubled scoring Jackson Holliday and Gunnar Henderson
• A batter later, Jeremiah Jackson doubled scoring Rutschman
• A batter after that, Coby Mayo hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 6R (all earned) 2BB 5K 91 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Brandon Young pitching line: 6.1IP 7H 3R (all earned) 0BB 4K 85 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 8th as Jackson singled scoring Rutschman
• Two batters later, Colton Cowser singled scoring Jackson
• A batter later, Mayo scored on a ground out hit by Leody Taveras
• The Orioles added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Rutschman singled scoring Taylor Ward and Henderson
• A batter later, Rutschman and Pete Alonso scored on a throwing error by Okamoto on a ball hit by Taveras
• Final score: Orioles 13 Blues Jays 3

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 5.2 innings, giving up 6 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. He retired 8 in a row but lost it in the 6th inning, when he was tagged for 5 runs, capped by  a 2-run HR hit by Coby Mayo. Yesavage is still pretty new to the MLB, but teams are building a playbook to use against him, Command was an issue today. Could he be pitching though an injury?
• The bullpen gave up 7 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 3.1 innings. Tyler Heineman was the only pitcher to retire every batter he faced.  Adam Macko was the only other reliever to not give up any runs.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got a 2-run HR off the bat of Brandon Valenzuela, who is doing everything he can to make the decision hard when Alejandro Kirk comes off the IL, and a sac fly from Vlad.
• The Blue Jays cannot catch a break on the injury front. Daulton Varsho had to leave the game with inflammation in his wrist. Backup options are Myles Straw and Nathan Lukes and George Springer in a break glass emergency where the latter 2 got hurt.
• Orioles pitcher Yennier Cano was unsuccessful on the only ABS challenge of the night
• The Blur Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. It'll be a bullpen day for the Blue Jays with Spencer Miles expected to factor in heavily. The Orioles will counter with righty Kyle Bradish

Game #64 Baltimore Orioles (30-33) v. Toronto Blue Jays (30-33)

 

Game #63 - Toronto Blue Jays (30-33) @ Atlanta Braves (42-21) - game recap

 

Myles Straw drove in 3 runs and scored a run in a 7-2 victory over the Braves

After another loss due to a bad day for the pitchers, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season and 1st in a season series. Righty Chad Dallas was selected to the MLB roster, righty Hayden Juenger was optioned to AAA-ball and righty Tanner Andrews was DFA'd. Mason Fluharty got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup at DH. Daulton Varsho got the complete day off with Myles Straw at CF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Charles McAdoo was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season and 1st in a season series? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• Mason Fluharty pitching line: 1.1IP 1H 0R 1BB 1K 25 pitches (14 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Charles McAdoo singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• Two batters later, Myles Straw singled scoring Kazuma Okamoto and McAdoo
• The Braves got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Matt Olson that scored Ronald Acuna Jr. 
• Chris Sale pitching line: 5.2IP 10H 3R (all earned) 2BB 6K 108 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Braves got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Mauricio Dubon whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Ernie Clement
• A batter later, Myles Straw singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• A batter after that, Tyler Heineman doubled scoring Lukes and Straw
• Louis Varland got the last 4 outs for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Braves 2

My Take:

• Mason Fluharty threw 1.1 scoreless innings, giving up a hit, walking 1 and striking out 1. Still not a fan of the whole opener piggy backed by a bulk inning guy phenomen that was started largely by the Rays who were in a similar injury situation that the Blue Jays are facing right now. First and foremost, it burns a reliever right away. Second, what happens if the opener can't get out of the 1st inning? Then you either have to use a SECOND reliever to escape the jam or bring your bulk guy into a mess right away. Also, the bulk guy is going to face the entire lineup at least once and likely twice anyway, so why not let them start the game and settle in right away? Teams should start getting more than just the five pitchers expected to be the traditional starters stretched out in spring training so there is no need for an opener/bulk reliever.
• The rest of the relievers held the Braves to a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking ut 4 over the last 7.2 innings. Chad Dallas had a decent debut holding the Braves to a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1. He'll likely be optioned back to AAA-ball soon once Dylan Cease comes off the IL, likely his next turn. Jeff Hoffman, Tyler Rogers and Louis Varland retired every batter they faced
• The offence took full advantage of an ineffective Chris Sale. Myles Straw (3RBI, run scored), Vlad (2 runs scored) and Tyler Heineman led the way today
• Every Blue Jays starter except Yohendrick Pinago had a hit and all but Pinago and George Springer either scored a run or drove in a run
• The Braves were 2-2 on ABS challenges and Myles Straw was unsuccessful on the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 7-18 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays open 10-day, 9-game homestand against the Orioles. The two teams split the 4-game series in Baltimore a week ago with the Orioles outscoring the Blue Jays 21-18. Righty Kyle Bradish starts for the Orioles. The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #63 Toronto Blue Jays (29-33) @ Atlanta Barves (42-20)

 

Game #62 - Toronto Blue Jays (29-33) @ Atlanta Braves (42-20) - game recap

Nathan Lukes scored twice, including a solo HR in a 7-3 loss to the Braves

After a late game really fell short yesterday, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 3- game skid and avoid their 9th series loss of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate.  George Springer got the complete day off (Jesus Sanchez served as DH tonight). Could the Blue Jays snap the three game skid and avoid their 9th series loss of the season?  Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a double play ball hit by Jesus Sanchez that scored Nathan Lukes 
• The Braves tied it in the bottom of the 2nd as Ha-Seong Kim singled scoring Eli White. Lukes was charged with s throwing error on the play. 
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Lukes belted a solo jack to right
• The Braves took the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a 3-run bomb to dead center by Mauricio Dubon; also scoring Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies 
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 5IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 1K 85 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Grant Holmes pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 89 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Braves added 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th as Albies whacked a 3-run blast to left; also scoring Dominic Smith and Olson
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 9th as Brandon Valenzuela hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• Final score: Braves 7 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

•  Patrick Corbin battled through 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 1. It was unfortunate he gave up a 3-run HR immediately after the Blue Jays knotted the game at 2. Corbin struggled with getting out of innings cleanly, getting the first 2 outs and then getting into a jam. Very interesting that the Blue Jays traded for Simeon-Woods Richardson after he was DFA'd by the Twins, especially since Shane Bieber, and Dylan Cease all on rehab assignments this week. The Blue Jays could opt for a 6-man rotation but pitchers are creatures of habit and would likely falter if off their typical 5 day rotation more than a turn or two.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 3 hits while walking 1and striking out none over the last 3 innings. Rookie Adam Macko was taken deep for the three runs against. Hayden Juenger retired every batter he faced
• Nathan Lukes led the way offensively, scoring twice, including a solo HR. Brandon Valenzuela also went deep in the 9th. Valenzuela is doing everything he can to force his way into the backup catcher role when Alejandro Kirk returns in a week or two.
• The Blue Jays were 0-1 on ABS challenges and the Braves succeessly overturned their only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 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 and 1st time in a season series. It will be another bullpen day with righty Chad Dallas is in Atlanta on the taxi squad so will likely figure in as a bulk reliever or traditional starter. The Braves will counter with lefty Chris Sale

Game #62 Toronto Blue Jays (29-32) @ Atlanta Barves (41-20)

 

Game #61 - Toronto Blue Jays (29-32) @ Atlanta Braves (41-20) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto hit a 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Braves hung on to edge the Blue Jays 4-3

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Atlanta. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, outscoring the Braves 13-12. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup at DH after the complete day off Sunday. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH Sunday. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Yohendrick Pinago was in RF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Michael Harris II doubled scoring Ronald Acuna Jr,
• Two batters later, Harris II scored on a sac fly by Ozzie Albies
• The Blue jays tied it in the top of the 2nd as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Yohendrick Pinago 
• The Braves retook the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as Albies singled scoring Matt Olson
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 6th on a sac fly by Daulton Varsho that scored Nathan Lukes
• The Braves retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Olson smacked a solo blast to right
• Bryce Elder pitching line: 6.2IP  6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 6K 103 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 8K 96 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Raisel Iglesias threw a scoreless 9th for his 11th save of the season
• Final score: Braves 4 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8. The Braves got to him right away, scoring twice in the 1st inning. Three starters may be getting close to returning with Shane Bieber, Max Scherzer and Dylan Cease all eyeing starting rehab assignments in the coming days. This will take the pressure off Gausman to have to pitch deep in games to save the bullpen.
• The bullpen pittched 2 scoreless innings. Brayden Fisher and Connor Seabold both retired every batter they faced
• Offensively, Kazuma Okanoto (2-run HR) and Daulton Varsho had clutch game-tying RBI's, but the Blue Jays weren't able to score the go-ahead run. Caase in point, 9th inning, the Blue Jays had 2 chances to at least send the game to extra innings, only to see Andres Gimenez and pinch hitter Jesus Sanchez pop out to end the game. George Springer and Vlad both need to do more to help out.
• Lots of ABS challenges in this one. Brandon Valenzuela was unsuccessful in the Blue Jays only ABS challenge. The Braves were a perfect 4-for-4 with Braves catcher Sandy Leon overturning three ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 10th series loss and 5th season series loss of the season. Patricjk Corbin starts against Braves righty Grant Holmes

Game #61 Toronto Blue Jays (29-31) @ Atlanta Barves (40-20)

 

Game #60 - Toronto Blue Jays (29-31) @ Baltimore Orioles (28-32) - game recap

 

Yohendrick Pinago hit a 3-run HR in a 9-5 loss to the Orioles

After a brutal come-from behind loss yesterday after another brutal Jeff Hoffman meltdown, the Blue Jays were looking to escape Baltimore with their 9th series win of the season. Spencer Miles got the start with Brandon Valenzuuela behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Charles McAdoo at 1B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 9th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd on a ground out hit by Colton Cowser that scored Pete Alonso
• The Orioles addeed a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Alonso singled scoring Gunnar Henderson
• A batter later, Samuel Bassalo doubled scoring Adley Rutschman
• Two batters later, Cowser hammered a 3-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Alonso and Basallo
• Spencer Miles pitching line: 3IP 5H 6R (all earned) 3BB 2K 70 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 6th on a fielder's choice hiit by Taylor Ward that scored Cowser
• A batter later, Henderson doubled scoring Blaze Alexander
• A batter after that, Ward scored on a sac fly by Rutschman
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a fielder's choice hit by Charles McAdoo that scored Ernie Clement. Orioles 2B was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Kyle Bradish pitching line: 7IP 4H 1R (unearned) 3BB 4K 94 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Clement doubled scoring Nathan Lukes
• A batter later, Yohendrick Pinago hammered a 3-run bomb to right; also scoring Clement and Kazuma Okamoto
• Final score: Orioles  Blue Jays 5

My Take:

• The baseball gods have a way of humbling baseball players playing well. Today, it was Spencer Miles' turn. Miles was lit up for 6 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 2 over 3 innings. He took 70 pitches to get 9 outs. Every pitcher is due for a stinker every now and then so hopefully this is just a one-off.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 5 innings Hayden Juenger, making his big league debut, was responsible for all 3 runs given up by the bullpen. Mason Fluharty was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced, striking out the side in the bottom of thec 8th
• Offensively, Ernie Clement (2 runs scored, RBI) and Yohendrick Pinago (3-run HR) carried the day. Vlad should go back to hitting 3rd in the order because hitting 2nd isn't helping him.
• As if the injury situation couldn't get any kookier, Jesus Sanchez was forced to leave the game in the 6th after a fan threw a ball on the field, evidently misinterpreting a friendly chat as an invitation to play catch. Hopefully he won't miss more than a day or two.
• All three ABS challenges were successfully overturned with the Blue Jays overturning 2 ABS challenges and the Orioles overturning 1 ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Atlanta. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, outscoring the Braves 13-12. Ace Kevin Gausman starts for the Blue Jays. The Braves haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #60 Toronto Blue Jays (29-30) @ Baltimore Orioles (27-32)

 

Game #59 - Toronto Blue Jays (29-30) @ Baltimore Orioles (27-32) - game recap

Kazuma Okamoto drove in a pair of runs in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to walk-off the Blue Jays 6-5

 

After eking out a win thanks to a pair of 2-run HR off the bats of Andres Gimenez and Charles McAdoo and a clutch 2-run double by Vlad, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games and notch their 9th series win of the season. Austin Voth was DFA'd after yesterday's disastrous appearance and righty Hayden Juenger was added to the MLB roster. Trey Yesavage got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Jesus Sanchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games and notch their 9th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Gunnar Henderson singled scoring Jeremiah Jackson
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 5th as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• A batter later, Ernie Clement singled home Guerrero Jr.
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 7BB 4K 92 pitches (48 for strikes)
• Brandon Young pitching line: 6.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 7K 86 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Kazuma Okamoto doubled scoring Nathan Lukes and Guerrero Jr 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Gu-errero Jr. doubled scoring Lukes
• The Orioles got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Leody Taveras tripled scoring Coby Mayo
• A batter later, Jackson Holliday singled home Taveras
• Three batters later, Holliday was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Henderson
• A batter later, Colton Cowser was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Adley Rutschman
• A batter after that, Pete Alonso singled scoring Taylor Ward
• Final score: Orioles 6 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage definitely didn't have his best stuff going for him, especially since he walked 7 batters on the day. He was able to make enough pitches to largely get of out jams unscathed and give the Blue Jays a much needed 5 innings with a bullpen game on tap tomorrow. Yesavage is likely still establishing a good rhythm after missing the first 6 weeks with injury.
• Oh boy did John Schneider ever overthink his choices to get the last 6 outs. First, he used closer Louis Varland to get the 3 outs in the 8th due to the perceived tougher part of the lineup that inning. Then he elected to bring in Jeff Hoffman in what had turned into a non-save situation because Vlad had a clutch hit to give the Blue Jays a 4-run cushion. Knowing Hoffman's issues in this scenarios, Schneider should have kept Connor Seobold throwing so the second Hoffman started showing signs of faltering, he could have been brought in with a 2 run lead to work with instead of the bases being loaded and facing a dangerous hitter in Adley Rutschman. How long will the Blue Jays keep trying to work with Hoffman? Austin Voth was DFA'd today after an equally ugly pitching line yesterday and he didn't blow a lead. Hoffman should have had the blown save attached to him today since the run was his responsibility. I don't care that he was out of the game. Seabold was put in an impossible situation by Hoffman that never should have happened.
• If there is a silver lining to this loss, Vlaf's bat is heating up and he's starting to drive the ball and come up with extra base hits. He's streaky like his father was but there's still time for him to develop into that dangerous power bat of Vladimir Guerrero Sr. Kazuma Okamoto continues to impress in his first year in North America with another clutch 2-RBI hit.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Andres Gimenez and Tyler Heineman had a hit. It's very likely Heineman will be out of a job once Alejandro Kirk returns from the fractured thumb in the coming weeks.
• Heineman was 1-2 in ABS challenges and Orioles 3B Coby Mayo was successful in the Orioles only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to escape Baltimore with their 9th series win of the season. It will be a bullpen day with Spencer Miles either starting or following someone like Adam Macko. The Orioles will counter with righty Kyle Bradish

Game #59 Toronto Blue Jays (29-29) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-32)

 

Game #58 - Toronto Blue Jays (29-29) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-32) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a pair of runs and scored a run in a 6-5 comeback win over the Orioles

After eking out a win on a bases loaded walk, the Blue Jays were trying to extend the win streak to 4 games. Adam Macko got the start in a bullpen day with Dylan Cease on the IL with a hamstring strainand Brandon Valenzuela was behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF and Yohendrick Pinago was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at SS with Charles McAdoo at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games?  Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• Adam Macko pitching line: 1.2IP 3H 0R 0BB 1K 30 pitches (20 for strikes)
• The Orioles opened the scoring in the button of the 3rd on a bases loaded walk by Adley Rutschman that forced in Jackson Holiday
• Two batters later, Taylor Ward scored on a sac fly by Samuel Basallo
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Holiday hammered a solo bomb to right
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Pete Alonso whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center
• A batter later, Basallo smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 7th as Kazuma Okamoto belted a 2-run jack to left also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Charles McAdoo whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• Trevor Rogers pitching line: 6IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 3K 84 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair or runs in the top of the 8th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring George Springer and Ernie Clement
• Brayden Fisher threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Orioles 5

My Take:

• Adam Macko is reminding me a lot of Tim Mayza, who was an effective lefty and could be used in different situations. Ideally, you want Macko to come in as a reliever towards the middle of the game, but with the Blue Jays injury situation, they are going to have to resort to bullpen games at least another couple of weeks. The Blue Jays should have guys stretched out in the minor league system so they can be used as a traditional starter and eat up several innings. The brass in the minors should be monitoring things in the bigs and know when a pitcher might be headed to the IL and skip a starter for a potential call-up.
• At the other extreme is Austin Voth who was lit up for 5 runs on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out none. Not sure the result would have been different if the Blue Jays had opted to use Voth as a traditional starter. Connor Seabold, Mason Fluharty and Fisher combined for 4 perfect innnings while striking out 2 to give the bats a chance to wake up. Fluharty was credited with the win and Fisher notched his first save of the season.
• After being stymied by Trevor Rogers for 6 innings, the Blue Jays finally got to him via a pair of 2-run HR, including a career first for Charles McAdoo. Vlad led the way offensively, driving in a pair and scoring once. Kazuma Okamoto extended his team lead in HR, going deep for the 12th time this season to put the Blue Jays on the board
• Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo was unsucceessful in the Orioles only ABS challenge and Valenzuela successfully overturned a ball call into s strike call in the Blue Jays lone ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 2-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 5 games and notch their 9th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage starts against Orioles righty Brandon Young 

Game #58 Toronto Blue Jays (28-29) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-31)

 

Game #57 - Toronto Blue Jays (28-29) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-31) - game recap

 

Patrick Corbin threw 5 solid innings in a 2-1 victory over the Orioles

After eking out a win yesterday thanks to Kazuma Okamoto going deep, the Blue Jays were looking extend the win streak to 3 games as they started a road trip in Baltimore against old friend Chris Bassitt. -The Blue Jays took the season series last year 7-6, but the Orioles outscored the Blue Jays 80-70. Lenyn Sosa was placed on the 10-day IL with a wrist contusion and Chase Lee was optioned to AAA-ball. Charles McAdoo had his contract selected to the MLB roster. Righty Lazio Estrada was transferred to the 60-Day IL. Patrick Corbin got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Nathan Lukes got the start 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 3rd as Andres Gimenez belted a solo jack to right-center
• The Orioles tied it in the bottom of the 5th as Coby Mayo hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 5IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 4K 80 pitches (49 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 2K 80 pitches (48 for strikes)\
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 8th on a bases loaded walk to Yohendrick Pinago that forced in George Springer
• Louis Varland got the last 4 outs for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Orioles 1

My Take:

• It was a pretty even pitcher's duel to start this important series with both Chris Bassitt and Patrick Corbin allowing a run on 4 hits while walking 1. Bassitt went an extra inning. Corbin threw an extra strike (49 vs. 48 for Bassitt; both threw 80 pitches) and got double the number of strikeouts (4 for Corbin and 2 for Bassitt. Corbin continues to give the Blue Jays a chance to win mostly every night - a great pickup by Ross Atkins
• The bullpen held the Orioles to 4 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Oh boy, here's hoping Tyler Rogers isn't down more than a day or 2 after taking a comebacker off the ankle. The Blue Jays practically have a full roster on the IL already and Yimi Garcia, Joe Mantiply (who now needs athroscopic surgery on his knee, and Tommy Nance aren't close to returning. Louis Varland and Jeff Hoffman will have more on their shoulders while Rogers is down. Jeff Hoffman was credited with the win.
• When the offence isn't going consistently, you need to find other ways to manufacture runs. Tonight, the Blue Jays won on a bases loaded walk in the 8th inning. Andres Gimenez also moved into a tie for 2nd on the team in home runs by going deep for the 6th time this season. Some of  the guys who were raking last season like Ernie Clement, Vlad, George Springer and Daulton Varsho need to get the bats going soon, the calendar turns to June on Monday.
• Neither of the catchers were successful on ABS challenges with Adley Rutschmann going 0-2 and Brandon Valenzuela 0-1. At least Valenzuela was able to come up with a massive pick off to end the 8th inning
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games. Lefty Trevor Rogers starts for the Orioles tonight. The Blue Jays haven't decided who will make the spot start for Dylan Cease, who's on the IL with a hamstring issue. It'll likely be one of Austin Voth or Chad Dallas.  John Schneider indicated earlier this week the spot start will likely be handled as a traditional start as opposed to an opener followed by a bulk reliever. The Blue Jays have a chance to get back to .500 for the first time since April 3rd.

Game #57 Toronto Blue Jays (27-29) @ Baltimore Orioles (26-30)

 

Game #56 - Miami Marlins (26-31) @ Toronto Blue Jays (27-29) - game recap

 

After a win thanks to a 6-run 6th inning capped by a Jesus Sanchez grand slam?, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 straight wins and notch their 7th series win and 2nd season series win of the season. Tanner Andrews was optioned to AAA-ball and lefty Aaron Voth was added to the big league roster. Alejandro Kirk was transferred to the 60 day IL. The Blue Jays also acquired righty Connor SeaWorld from the Tigers for minor league lefty Juanmi Vasquez.  Jose Berrios was transferred to the 60-day IL. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.  George Springer got the full day off with Jesus Sanchez serving as DH. Vlad was back in the lineup after missing a couple of days after getting drilled in the elbow by a pitch in the right elbow. Nathan Lukes got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jaysmake it 2 straight wins and notch their 7th series win and 2nd season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Otto Lopez singled scoring Xavier Edwards
• Eury Perez pitching line: 4IP 3H 0R 0BB 9K 73 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue jays tied it up in the bottom of the 5th as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring Tyler Heineman
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 95 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-field and into the Marlins bullpen 
• Tyler Rogers pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up s run on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. He was working his way in and out of jams most of the day. Also not his most efficient outing, needing almost 100 pitches to get 15 outs. He seems to be having a regression year. Hopefully his trajectory doesn't continue in this path.
• The bullpen threw 4 scoreless innings, scattering 5 hits, walking none and striking out 3. I've said all along that Tyler Rogers should be the closer.  He's been the Blue Jays best pitcher and doesn't mess around when he's on the mound. Jeff Hoffman, who went 2 innings, was credited with the win. 
• The offense did just enough to win the day. Nathan Lukes came through with a clutch hit in the 5th and Kazuma Okamoto went deep to the opposite field in right-center. Despite a sore elbow, Vlad was the most effective hitter with 2 hits and drawing a walk. Heck he even managed to steal a base
• The Marlins were successful in the only ABS challenge of the day. 
• The Blue jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Baltimore to face their division rivals in the Orioles for the first time this season. The Blue jays took the season series last year 7-6, but the Orioles outscored the Blue Jays 80-70. Patrick Corbin starts against Orioles righty and old friend Chris Bassitt. 

Game #56 Miami Marlins (26-30) v. Toronto Blue Jays (26-29)

 

Game #55 - Miami Marlins (26-30) @ Toronto Blue Jays (26-29) - game recap

 

Jesus Sanchez hit his first career grand slam in an 8-1 rout of the Marlins

After an ugly loss due to some sloppy defense, a bad day for the pitchers and the inept offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. It was bullpen day with Brayden Fisher first man on the bump and Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate.  Vlad remained out with a sore elbow from a hit by pitch Sunday so Lenyn Sosa got another start at 1B. Daulton Varsho was back in CF after a complete day off yesterday.  Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• Brayden Fisher pitching line: 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 1K 12 pitches (9 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Marlins got one back in the top of the 5th as Heiberto Hernandez singled scoring Jakob Marsee
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Yohendrick Pinago belted a solo jack to straightaway center\
• Five batters later, George Springer singled scoring Brandon Valenzuela 
• Two batters later, Jesus Sanchez hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Lenyn Sosa, George Springer and Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher did his part in getting through the 1st inning, allowing a hit, walking none and striking out 1 on 12 pitches. Still not a huge fan of the use of the opener for  several reasons. Firs, pitchers are very much creatures of habit and there are definitely different routines they do to get themselves ready for a game. Also you burn a reliever right away that could have been used in a different way. Third, what happens if the reliever can't get through the 1st inning and now your bulk guy has to come into the game to escape the jam or, as the Blue Jays are facing, there are 2 spots in the rotation and you only have 3 reliable healthy starters. There are already so many injuries to pitchers and you really need 5 traditional starters that can eat innings as opposed to a bullpen game. 
• The rest of the bullpen held the Marlins to a run on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 8 innings. Spencer Miles was credited with the win and Adam Macko and Yariel Rodriguez both retired every batter they faced
• The bats came through big time starting with Ernie Clement going deep and capped off with Jesus Sanchez crushing a grand slam. From top to bottom the lineup raked tonight. They say hitting is contagious and hopefully this is the start of the offence busting out 
• Every Blue Jays starter except Andres Gimenez and Lenyn Sosa had a hit and all but Gimenez either scored a run or drove in a run
• And the injury bug keeps on biting the Blue Jays in the butt. This time Spencer Miles was hit in the leg by a comebacker and four Blue Jays were hit by pitches. Everyone was able to finish the game, but the ice packs will be used plenty tonight
• The Marlins were a perfect 3-0 on ABS challenges and Brandon Valenzuela was unsuccessful on the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the rubber match of this series as the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 2 games and notch their 8th series win and 3rd season series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Marlins righty Eury Perez

Game #55 Miami Marlins (26-29) v. Toronto Blue Jays (25-29)

Game #54 Miami Marlins (25-29) v. Toronto Blue Jays (25-28)

 

Game #53 - Pittsburgh Pirates (27-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-28) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 4-1 loss to the Pirates

After a huge win on the backs of a 3-run rally in the 6th and a fine effort from starter Patrick Corbin, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games and complete their 2nd sweep of the season and first season series sweep of the season. Dylan Cease got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Kazuma Okamoto was back at the hot corner after the complete day off yesterday and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games and complete their 2nd series sweep and 1st season series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Pirates took the lead in the top of the 1st as Spencer Horwitz led off the game with a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• The Pirates added a run in the top of the 2nd as Oneil Cruz hammered a solo bomb to the 3rd deck in right
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 4.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 76 pitches (49 for strikes) - left with a hamstrain strain
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left the game in the bottom of  the 5th after getting drilled in the right elbow by a pitch
• The Pirates added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Esmerlyn Valdez whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right
• Mitch Keller pitching line: 6IP  4H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 101 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Gregory Soto pitched a scoreless 9th for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Pirates 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Dylan Cease gave up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8.  He was taken deep twice, but was otherwise solid. The bigger concern is that he left the game with hamstring tightness. The Blue Jays can ill afford to lose Cease for even one start.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4 over the last 4.1 innings. Yariel Rodriguez had a bounceback appearance after a couple of rough outings. Brayden Fisher also had a clean inning.
• Offensively, Ernie Clement drove in the Blue Jays only run. Here's hoping Vlad doesn't miss more than a game.
• The Pirates were 2-1 on ABS challenges and the Blue Jays did not have an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 1-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the home stand continues as the Blue Jays welcome the Marlins to town. The Marlins took the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-13. Trey Yesavage starts against Marlins righty Janson Junk

Game #53 Pittsburgh Pirates (26-26) v. Toronto Blue Jays (25-27)

 

Game #52 - Pittsburgh Pirates (26-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (25-27) - game recap

 

Patrick Corbin threw 6 solid innings in a 5-2 viictory over the Pirates

After a win thanks to a strong start by Kevin Gausman and 2 RBI efforts from George Springer and Yohendrick Pinago, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 7th series win of the season. Patrick Corbin got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Ernie Clement was aat the hot corner and Lenyn Sosa was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 7th 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 George Springer led off with a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Pirates tied it in the bottom of the 6th as Marcell Ozuna doubled scoring Bryan Reynolds
• The Blue Jays retiook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Ernie Clement
• A batter after that, Sanchez scored on a ground out hit by Andres Gimenez
• Paul Skenes pitching line: 5IP 9H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 98 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 7K 84 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Tyler Heinema whacked a solo blast to right
• The Pirates got one back on a ground out hit by Ozuna that scored Konnor Griffin
• Jeff hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Pirates 2

My Take:

• Patrick Corbin fired 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 7. Corbin retired 13 in a row at one point. He was a very smart signing when the Blue Jays ran into injury trouble in the rotation and Eric Lauer could not find his form from 2025. The veteran lefty has kept the Blue Jays in games and given the offence a chance to come through.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 walks while striking out 5 over the last 3 innings. Yariel Rodriguez is struggling to find his form the last couple outings. Jeff Hoffman has found his and has looked fantastic in locking up 2 straight saves. He might get his closer role back soon.
• The offence is slowlly heating up at the right time. George Springer got things started with his 65th career leadoff home run, putting him 16 behind the late legendary Rickey Henderson, who had 81 career leadoff home runs. The Blue Jays had a three run rally in the 6th inning with Jesus Sanchez scoring a run and driving in a run and Tyler Heineman went deep in the 8th for a crucial insurance run. Yohendrick Pinago is doing everything he can to force management to make a tough choice in the coming days when Nathan Lukes and Addison Barger return from the IL. Lukes should be ready by the next series and Barger shouldn't be far behind him.
• The Pirates successfull overturned their only ABS challenge and Tyler Heineman was 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 2nd series sweep of the season. Dylan Cease starts against Pirates righty Mitch Keller

Game #52 Pittsburgh Pirates (26-25) v. Toronto Blue Jays (24-27)

 

Game #51 - Pittsburgh Pirates (26-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-27) - game recap

 

Ace Kevin Gausman threw 6.2 strong innings in a 6-2 comeback win over the Pirates

After eking out win yesterday thanks to some fine work from the bullpen to escape NY with a series split, the Blue Jays opened a week long home stand against the Pirates, who won the seson series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays with both teams scoring 10 runs. Ace Kevin Gausman got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Yohendrick Pinago was in LF and Jesus Sa nchez was in RF. Andres Gimenez was back at SS with Ernie Clement getting the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Pirates opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a sac fly by Spencer Horwitz that scored Brandon Lowe
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 3rd on a throwing error by Horwitz on a fielder's choice hit by Daulton Varsho that scored George Springer
• Two batters later, Yohendrick Pinago doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Varsho
• Bubba Chandler pitching line: 5IP 2H 3R (1 earned) 2BB 11K 99 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 6H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Pirates got one back in the top of the 8th on a ground out hit by Bryan Reynolds that scored Lowe
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Jesus Sanchez doubled scoring Ernie Clement\
• Three batters later, Myles Straw and Brandon Valenzuela scored on a ground-rule double by George Springer
• Louis Varland pithed 2 perfect innings for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Pirates 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 6.2 strong shutout innings. This was vintage Kevin Gausman. The veteran ace racked up thr strikes while also needing an efficient 94 pitches to get 20 outs. He'll be relied on to go deep in games with the Blue Jays expected to be extremely cautious with Trey Yesavage and Shane Bieber. Max Scherzer also can't be relied on to go deep in games either due to age and injury.
• The bullpen gave up a run on a hit while walking 1 and striking out 3. Louis Varland did a fantastic job bailing out Mason Fluharty.
• The offense had a good night. George Springer drove in a pair on a ground rule double and Yohendrick Pinago drove in a pair. There's no way Pinago should be optioned over Davis Schneider
• The Pirates were 0-2 on ABS challnges and Brandon Valenzuela was 1-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 3-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 4 games and to notch their 7th series win of the season. Patrick Corbin starts against Pirates ace and righty Paul Skenes

Game #51 Pittsburgh Pirates (26-24) v. Toronto Blue Jays (23-27)

 

Game #50 - Toronto Blue Jays (23-27) @ New York Yankees (30-21) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a solo home run in a 2-0 shutout win over the Yankees

After eking out a win yesterday thanks to some small ball in the 7th and an excellent start from Trey Yesavage, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 straight wins and earn the series split. It was bullpen day with Brayden Fisher as the opener and Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was at SS with Lenyn Sosa getting the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and earn the series split?  Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• Brayden Fisher pitching line: 1.1IP 0H 0R 1BB 4K 23 pitches (15 for strikes)
• Carlos Rodon pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 7K 94 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as George Springer smacked a solo blast to left
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Yankees 0

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher did his job, allowing a walk and striking out the other 4 batters he faced.  The Blue jays will have to go through this process another 2-3 times with Shane Bieber nearing the start of a rehab assignment, although the Blue jays will certainly be careful using him given he will have missed the first two months of the season and was coming off Tommy John surgery last season. Max Scherzer hasn't been great but maybe his effectiveness is better healthy. Either way, these bullpen games should end soon
• There were some fine performances from the bullpen. Spencer Miles fired 4.1 innings, holding a dangerous Yankees lineup to 2 hits and a walk while striking out 6. Jeff Hoffman retired the side in order in his first savve opportunity in a month on just 12 pitches and rookie Adam Macko hasn't looked out of place in the bigs and struck out Ben Rice to end his day.
• If there's any Blue Jays player that needed a big hit it is George Springer. After turning back the clock last season, Springer has been unable to replicate his work in 2025. No question the broken toe he's been playing through has impacted him at the plate. He went deep in the 7th to give the Blue Jays a huge insurace run. Vlad should move back to his familiar 3rd spot in the batting order.
• Both catchers (Valenzuela and Yankees backsop JC Escarra successfully overturned their teams only ABS challenge.
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a home stand against the Pirates, who won the seson series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays with both teams scoring 10 runs. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Pirates righty Bubba Chandler

Game #50 Toronto Blue Jays (22-27) @ New York Yankees (30-20)

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

Game Highlights:

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

My Take:

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

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

 

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

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

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

Game Highlights:

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

My Take:

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