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 #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 #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 #19 - Atlanta Braves (5-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (11-8) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a pair of runs,including himself on his first HR of the season, in a 3-1 win over the Braves

After a solid win thanks to a 5-run 5th inning thanks to a 2-run HR off the bat of Alan Roden and a 3-run HR off the bat of Anthony Santander,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 2nd series win and 1st series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate and Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 2nd series win and 1st series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bo Bichette
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 3H 0R 2BB 10K 90 pitches (59 for strikes) 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Guerrero Jr hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Spencer Strider pitching line: 5IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K  97 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Bichette doubled home Myles Straw
• The Braves got one back in the top of the 9th as Drake Baldwin smacked s solo blast to left
• Jeff Hoffman got the last 3 outs for his 4th save of the season 
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Braves 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 5 shutout innings, scattering 3 hits, walking 2 and striking out 10. His pitch efficiency wasn't the best, but he struck out a ton of batters and the Braves did a good job of working the count Bassitt continues to turn back the clock. If he keeps pitching like this the rest of the season, he'll command a decent price in free agency.
• The bullpen gave up a run (a HR off closer Jeff Hoffman) while walking 1 and striking out 9. Combined, Blue Jays pitchers struck out 19 batters. Yimi Garcia struck out all 4 batters he faced and Brandon Little struck out the side in the 6th inning.
• The two players with the most pressure on them, Vlad (trying to live up to the massive deal he signed) and Bichette (trying to play for a similary lucrative contract) carried the offense today. Vlad annihilated his first home run of the season and drove in a second run. Bo Bichette scored a run and drove in a run.
• The Blue Jays were 2-8 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games as they welcome their expansion cousins, the Seattle Mariners for an easter weekend series. Bowden Francis starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #18 - Atlanta Braves (5-12) @ Toronto Blue Jays (10-8) - game recap

 

Anthony Santander belted a 3-run HR in a 6-3 comeback win over the Braves

After a rough loss to the Braves thanks to the worst start of the season for lefty Easton Lucas, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Nathan Lukes was placed on the paternity leave list and Addison Barger was recalled from AAA-ball and was in the lineup in RF. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Will Wagner was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Austin Riley whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-centet
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 3rd on a fielder's choice hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr, that scored Alan Roden
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Roden belted a 2-run jack to right; also scoring Myles Straw
• Three batters later, Anthony Santander hammered a 3-run bomb to the 2nd deck in right; also scoring Bo Bichette and Guerrero Jr.
• Spencer Schellenbach pitching line: 4.2IP 6H 6R (all earned) 2BB 3K 86 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Braves got one back in the top of the 6th as Matt Olson hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 0BB 6K 98 pitches (68 for strikes)
• The Braves got one back in the top of the 9th as Ozzie Albies drilled a solo blast to left
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Braves 3

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 6 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 6. He gave up a pair of solo home runs but was able to limit the damage and give the Blue Jays bats a chance to take over the game
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits, walked 2 batters and struck out 3 batters over the last 3 innings. Nick Sandin retired the only batter he faced
• The offence did most of the damage in the 5th inning courtesy of a 2-run HR off the bat of Alan Roden (it was his first career HR) and a 3-run bomb from Anthony Santander for his first home home run. It was nice to see Vlad feeling good at the plate He drew 2 walks
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the rubber match of the series for season series bragging rights, to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 2nd series win of the season and 1st season series win. Chris Bassitt starts against Braves righty Spencer Strider

Game #17 - Atlanta Braves (5-11) @ Toronto Blue Jays (9-8) - game recap

 

Tyler Heineman drove in a pair of runs in an 8-4 loss to the Braves

After ending the road trip with a win, the Blue Jays started a week-long home stand against the Atlanta Braves, but the Blue Jays outscored the Braves 13-12. Lefty Easton Lucas got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Not surprisingly, George Springer was not in the lineup after leaving yesterday's game with a sore wrist after a wild swing. Anthony Santander served as DH with Alan Roden in LF and Nathan Lukes in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Sean Murphy hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Matt Olson
• The Braves added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Austin Riley drilled a 2-run bomb to left-center: also scoring Eli White
• The Braves added a run in the top of the 5th as Ozzie Albies doubled scoring Nick Allen.  A batter later Riley belted a 3-run jack to left-center also scoring White and Albies
• Easton Lucas pitching line: 5IP 6H 8R (all earned) 4BB 3K 87 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Myles Straw hammered a solo bomb to left-center
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 8th as Tyler Heineman doubled scoring Alan Roden and Nathan Lukes
• Grant Holmes pitching line: 7.2IP 2H 3R (all earned) 2BB 4K 94 pitches (78 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Ernie Clement singled home Anthony Santander
• Final score: Braves 8 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Easton Lucas was lit up for 8 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over 5 innings. The Braves took him deep three times for 7 of the runs.  He actually retired the first two batters he faced and four in a row at one point.  The trouble was he didn't have an answer when he got into jams and the Braves made him pay when he was off with his location. A good learning night for the lefty who has done well pitching in Max Scherzer's spot in the rotation. Here's hoping he bounces back against the Mariners in his next scheduled start Sunday. 
• The bullpen threw 4 perfect innings strikiing out 1 batter. 
• The offence did nothing until the 6th inning when Myles Straw went yard for his first home run as a Blue Jay. Tyler Heineman (2-run double) and Ernie Clement (RBI single) drove in the other runs
• Not sure who has more pressure on them: Bo Bichette, who is playing for a contract in free agency or Vlad, who just signed a 14-year contract that will put him in the top 5 for richest active MLB player. Both players were 0-4 and Bichette struck out 3 times. I suspect the pressure is on Vlad more, which is rich because fans would be all over the front office if the deal wasn't signed and both Vlad and Bo left for greener pastures. The front office will have it's critics still if Vlad struggles to live up to the hefty deal. He has yet to hit a home run this season but is still batting a solid .284
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Kevin Gausman starts against Braves righty Spencer Schwellenbach

Game #144 Toronto Blue Jays (68-76) @ Atlanta Braves (78-65) - game recap

 

Spencer Horwitz hit a 2-run HR in a 4-3 come-from-behind walk-off loss to the Braves

After a huge win thanks to a team effort offensively, especially from Ernie Clement, the Blue Jays were trying to make it 2 straight wins, 14 series wins and 8 season series wins. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Brian Serven behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after the complete day off yesterday. Joey Loperfido was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Luis De Los Santos got the start at the hot corner with Leo Jimenez at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 14 series wins and 8 season series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jarred Kelenic drilled a solo jack to right-center 
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 73 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Chris Sale pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 1BB 7K 113 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 8th as Spencer Horwitz hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Ernie Clement
• The Braves tied it in the bottom of the 9th on a sac fly by Matt Olson that scored Eli White
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 11th as George Springer singled scoring Addison Barger
• The Braves tied it in the bottom half of the inning on a throwing error by Clement that scored Michael Harris II
• Two batters later, White scored on a fielder's choice hit by Sean Murphy
• Final score: Braves 4 Blue Jays 3 (11 innings)

My Take:

• Yariel Rodriguez battled through 5 innings, giving up a run on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. He retired the last 6 batters he faced. It appears the Blue Jays are starting to limit Rodroguez's innings in the last month of the season, which makes a lot of sense given they have big injury concerns with some of their prospects (Alek Manoah won't pitch until the middle of next season after tommy john surgery in April and Rickey Tiederman has missed significant time in virtually every season and his pitching elbow is a big concern). At this point, Rodriguez has given the Blue Jays a pretty good sample size to evaluate him and make him even better in 2025.
• The bullpen blew save opportunities in the 9th and 11th innings. For Chad Green, it was the 3rd blown save in a row for him. Zack Pop was given the opportunity to close out the game after escaping a bases loaded jam the previous inning, but was unable to even record an out. The bullpen is likely the biggest need for the off-season for the Blue Jays, who need 2-3 solid reliable relievers. At this point, Branden Little, Genesis Cabrera and maybe Erik Swanson, who has bounced back after a terrible start to the season, and Green should have a spot in the rotation. A healthy Jordan Romano should start as the closer.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays did all their damage once Chris Sale was out of the game. Spencer Horwirz belted a 2-run HR and George Springer got a clutch base hit in the 11th to briefly restore the lead
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head home to begin a week-long homestand beginning tomorrow against the Mets. The Blue Jays swept the series against the Mets last season, outscoring the Mets 11-5.  Mets righty Nick Blackburn starts for the Mets. The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #143 Toronto Blue Jays (68-75) @ Atlanta Braves (77-65) - game recap

 

Spencer Horwirz hit a pair of home runs, drove in 3 runs and scored 3 runs in a 9-5 win over the Braves

After dropping the opener of the weekend set against the Braves thanks to a poor effort from the inept offense and a rough 2nd inning from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were trying to snap the 3 game skid, avoid their 25th series loss and 13th season series loss. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at SS. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid, avoid their 25th series loss and 13th season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Games Highlights:

• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Spencer Horwitz hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Horwitz belted a solo jack to right0-center 
• Four batters later, Ernie Clement doubled scoring Addison Barger 
• A batter later, Joey Loperfido doubled home Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Horwrz doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Braves second baseman Luke Williams was charged with a throwing error on the play
• A batter later, Horwirz scored on a ground out hit by Will Wagner
• The Braves got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Michael Harris II singled scoring Gio Urshela
• Spencer Schwellenbach pitching line: 5IP 10H 6R (3 earned) 0BB 3K 72 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line:6IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 90 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Clement
• Two batters later, Loperfido scored on a fielder's choice hit by Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Wagner singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Braves got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Jarred Kelenic singled scoring Matt Olson
• Three batters later, Luke Williams singled scoring Ramon Laureano and Kelenic
• A batter later, Orlando Arcia scored on a ground out hit by Harris II
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Braves 5

My Take:

• Jose Berrios fired 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. His biggest out streak was 6 tonight. Berrios will be a key cog in the rotation the next few seasons and likely the ace next year.
• The bullpen, namely newbie Luis Frias, gave up 4 runs on 5 hits. A recent waiver claim, Frias won't last long if he gets knocked around like he did tonight. Brandon Little was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, Spencer Horwitz (2 solo HR, 3 runs scored, 3RBI), Nathan Lukes (RBI), Vlad (2 runs scored, 1 RBI), Will Wagner (2RBI), Ernie Clement (2 runs scored, RBI) and Joey Loperfido (run scored, RBI) did the damage
• Every Blue Jays starter except Addison Barger had at least one hit and all but Alejandro Kirk and Daulton Varsho either scored a run or drove in a run
• I like to see everyone contributing in the lineup. The kids are trying to show management they deserve a spot on the roster in 2025. Not everyone will make the cut, but at this time they are doing their darndest to make off-season decisions difficult ones.
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 2 straight wins, 13 series wins and 9 season series wins. Yariel Rodriguez starts against Braves lefty Chris Sale

Game #142 Toronto Blue Jays (67-75) @ Atlanta Braves (77-64) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes scored the Blue Jays only run in a 3-1 loss to the Braves

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays hit the road for a weekend as they traveled to Atlanta to take on the Braves. The Blue Jays swept the season series last year, outscoring the Braves 14-7. Righty Luis Frias was recalled from AAA-ball and lefty Brandon Eisert was optioned to AAA-ball. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Nathan Lukes in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner with Vlad back at 1B, Leo Jimenez was at SS and Will Wagner got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jarred Kelenic singled scoring Jorge Soler 
• Two batter later, Gio Urshela singled scoring Travis d'Arnaud
• A batter later, Kelenic scored on a ground out hit by Michael Harris II 
•  The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd on a ground out hit by Vladimir Guerrero Jr that scored Nathan Lukes
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 3H 3R (all earned) 3BB 5K 109 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Max Fried pitching line: 7IP 5H 1R (unearned) 1BB 8K 104 pitches (70 for strikes)
• Raisel Iglesias threw a scoreless 9th for his 31st save of the season

My Take:

• Kevim Gausman fired 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 3 hits while walk-ing 3 and striking out 5. He wasn't real efficient, especially early on when he needed 55 pitches to get 6 outs. Gausman retired 10 of the last 11 batters he faced. He should be the number 2 or 3 starter in the rotation next year
• The bulllpen threw 2 shutout innings, giving up a hit, walking none and striking out 3. Tommy Nance retired every batter he faced
• The Blue Jays manufactured their only run in the top of the 3rd on a productive ground out from Vlad
• The Blue Jays were 1-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3 game skid and avoid their 23rd series loss and 13th season series loss of the season. Jose Berrios starts against Braves righty Spencer Schwellenbach

Game #40 - Atlanta Braves (25-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (24-16) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a clutch 2-run single as the Blue Jays came from behind to walk-off the Braves 6-5

After a huge come-from-behind win over the Braves, the Blue Jays were going dfor 3 straight wins and their second sweep of the season. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield got the start in LF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 2nd sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #39 - Atlanta Braves (25-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (23-16) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in a pair of runs in a 5-2 come-from-behind win over the Braves

After a shutout win over Braves, highlighted by a complete game effort from Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and 9th series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as last night. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and 9 series wins on the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #38 - Atlanta Braves (25-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (22-16) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw a complete game shutout in a 3-0 shutout win over the Braves 

After an off day yesterday, the Blue Jays returned home to take on the Atlanta Braves. This game also marked Buck Martinez's return to the broadcast booth (the longtime Blue Jays play-by-play man is reducing his schedule after last season's health scare with cancer). In 2021, the Blue Jays swept the season series against Atlanta, outscoring the Braves 43-20. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after missing a couple of games with a nagging injury. The rest of the lineup was the same as Wednesday's game. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-gane skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #36 Toronto Blue Jays (20-16) @ Atlanta Braves (17-20) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in 3 runs and scored twice in an 8-4 come-from-behind victory over the Braves. It was the Blue Jays first season series sweep over the Braves since 2006

After a strong win last night on the backs of a strong pitching performance from Hyun-Jin Ryu and a 2 HR effort from Teoscar Hernandez, the Blue Jays were going for the season series sweep against the Braves. Ross Stripling got the start against Braves ace Charlie Morton. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Randal Grichuk was given the day off. Could the Blue Jays complete the season series sweep vs. the Braves? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Ronald Acuna Jr. hammered the first pitch by Ross Stripling into the 2nd deck in left
• Four batters later, Ehire Adrianza singled home Freddie Freeman
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 2nd as Jonathan Davis singled scoring Cavan Biggio
• The Blue Jays tied  the game in the top of the 5th as Bo Bichette singled home Reese McGuire 
• Two batters later, Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Bichette 
• Charlie Morton pitching line: 4.2IP 7H 3R (all earned) 2BB 4K 94 pitches (57 for strikes)The 
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 5IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 9K 84 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Braves took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Dansby Swanson crushed a 2-run blast to the upper deck in left; also scoring Marcell Ozuna. They also lost outfielder Cristian Pache to a leg injury
• scary moment in the bottom of the 7th: Acuna Jr. was injured while trying to beat out an infield single. After several moments writhing in agony, he was able to leave the field under his own power 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 8th as Biggio doubled home Hernandez
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 9th as Bichette doubled scoring Danny Jansen and Marcus Semen
• Two batters later, Biggio doubled home Bichette 
• A batter later, Hernandez scored on a sac fly by Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Braves 4

My Take:

• Ross Stripling faced a crucial start as the Blue Jays start to get their pitchers back from the IL. He gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 9. He had a rough start in the first inning with Ronald Acuna finding the upper deck on his first pitch of the game, He then allowed a second run on a further three hits. He settled down nicely after that, retiring seven in a row at one point and allowing just one base runner after the 1st inning on a walk. Stripling was 0-1 at the plate and had one successful sac bunt
• The bullpen was strong again, giving up 2 runs on 2 hits, walking one and striking out 6 over the game's final 4 innings. Tim Mayza was touched up for both runs as Dansby Swanson crushed a 2-run bomb into the second deck. Jordan Romano struck out the side in the 9th 
• It's the first time the Blue Jays swept a season series over Atlanta since 2006, and this was more impressive since they only had one 3-game series in 2008; whereas they had to win 6 games this time around
• Timely hitting and a huge 4-run 9th inning was the difference in this one.
• Bo Bichette (3 RBI, 2 runs scored), Cavan Biggio (2RBI 1 run scored), Marcus Semien (run scored) and Reese McGuire (run scored) drove the offense today.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head home to Dunedin to begin a 10-game in 11 days home stand beginning with a weekend series vs. the Phillies. It will be the last home stand in Dunedin. The Blue Jays will play out of Buffalo starting June 1st against Miami. This will either be for the balance of the season or until the Canadian border reopens and/or the Blue Jays get permission to play out of Toronto again. Last season, the Blue Jays and Phillies split the 6 games and the Phillies outscored the Blue Jays 31-26. On Friday, the Blue Jays will send lefty Steven Matz to the mound against Phillies righty Vince Velasquez.

Game #35: TORONTO @ ATLANTA

 

Game #34 Toronto Blue Jays (18-16) @ Atlanta Braves (17-18) - game recap

    Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had 2 clutch game-tying hits as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Braves 5-3

After dropping 2 of 3 vs. the Astros over the weekend, the Blue Jays continued the road trip with a trio of games against the Braves, who they swept in Dunedin a week ago. Today Robbie Ray was on the bump, looking to replicate a strong start last time out. It's the first time, and perhaps last time, pitchers will have to bat. Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate and Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday. After a rough start, Nate Pearson was optioned to AAA to work on his arsenal. Righty Jeremy Beasley was recalled from AAA. Could the Blue Jays make it four in a row vs. the Braves? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Ozzie Albies singled home Ronald Acuna
• The Braves added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Acuna hammered a solo bomb to straightaway center
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. lined a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Marcus Semien
• The Braves retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a solo bomb to left-center by Marcell Ozuna
• Bryse Wilson pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 84 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (all earned) 1BB 10K 99 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 8th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Jonathan Davis
• A batter later, Teoscar Hernandez singled scoring Semien
• Two batters later, Bo Bichette scored on a bases loaded walk to Cavan Biggio
• Jordan Romano pitched the 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Braves 3

My Take:

• Robbie Ray had himself a quality start, allowing 3 runs on 5 hits while walking one and striking out ten. He pitch out of a jam in the 1st inning, giving up run on 2 hits and a walk.. At one point, he retired nine in a row before the Ozuna HR. He earned a no decision after the Blue Jays bailed him out in the 8th with 3 runs. At the plate, he was 0-2 and popped out trying to sac bunt to move Reese McGuire over to second base. He also grounded out leading off the 6th inning. Ray is one of  the Blue Jays more experienced pitchers offensively having played 147 games as a starting pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks. In his career, he has a .142 average and 25 sac bunts
• Jonathan Davis nearly ran himself into an out in the 8th, just sliding back into 2nd base ahead of the throw from Braves reliever AJ Minter. Had he been called out, it might have changed the Braves approach to Bo Bichette. They might have been able to get out of the inning on a double play. Instead, Davis scored a couple of batters later and the Blue Jays added 2 more runs to take  a 2-run lead. Davis was thrown at home out to end the 9th trying to secure a 3-run lead
• Vlad was a big catalyst of the offense today with not one but two game-tying hits
• Both bullpens threw three innings. The Blue Jays relievers allowed 2 hits and a walk while striking out 3, The Braves relievers allowed 5 hits, 3 runs and a walk and struck out 5. All three runs were charged to AJ Minter, who did not record an out
• Rowdy Tellez blew a chance to extend the lead. He flew out to left, but not deep enough to score Vlad
• Up next, the Blue Jays look to make it five in a row vs. Atlanta. Tomorrow features a battle of the lefties as the Blue Jays send ace Hyun-Jin Ryu to the hill against Braves southpaw Max Fried

Game 34: Blue Birds @ Barfs

 

Game #25 Atlanta Braves (12-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-12) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen snapped a 13-game hitless streak in a 7-2 victory over the Braves

 It was both potential sweep day and getaway day. The Blue Jays wrapped up a week long homestand and were looking to sweep the Braves after a nice rout on Friday and a come from behind extra innings walk-off Saturday. There was both good and bad news injury wise. On the good news front, Ross Stripling was activated from the 10-day IL after missing a couple of weeks with a forearm strain. Onto the bad news. Alejandro Kirk (left flexor strain), Tommy Milone (left shoulder inflammation) and Anthony Castro (right forearm strain) were all added to the 10 day IL. Catcher Riley Adams and lefty Anthony Kay were added to the roster from the alt squad to fill the necessary roster spots. Danny Jansen got the start behind the plate. George Springer continues to DH as he works his way to full health from a nagging quad strain. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Braves opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as William Contreras singled scoring Ozzie Albies
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Danny Jansen singled home Randal Grichuk
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Marcus Semien doubled scoring Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Bichette doubled home Jansen
• The Braves got one back in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Ronald Acuna that scored Austin Riley
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 4.1IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 70 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Ian Anderson pitching line: 4IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 89 pitches (56 for strikes)
• George Springer left the game in the 6th as he appeared to tweak his quad again. Joe Panik pinch hit for him
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Semien cranked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Grichuk
• Four batters later, Panik doubled scoring Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Braves 2

My Take:

•  Ross Stripling pitched into the 5th inning, but could not get out of it to make him eligible for the win today. It was his first start since straining his right forearm April 15. He gave up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over 4.1 innings. He had clean 1-2-3 innings in the 1st 3rd, and 4th and had to work out of jams in the 2nd and 5th. He retired 7 in a row at one point.
•  Danny Jansen finally broke an 0-34 slump with an RBI single in the 2nd. Jansen was 2-3 with a run scored and an RBI. He also drew a walk
• There has to be concern with George Springer on the limp again. He was pinch hit for in the 6th and was grabbing at his leg yesterday too. The best thing is to shut him down, get him 100% and that includes being able to play in the field. Now that the minor league season has begun, Springer can be sent on a rehab assignment when he's physically ready
• Every Blue Jays starter except Springer, Cavan Biggio and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had at least one hit. All but Springer got on base at least once
• Up next, the Blue Jays begin a 10-game, 11-day road swing that begins tomorrow in Oakland and ends May 13 in Atlanta. The Blue Jays swept the season series against Oakland in 2019 6-0, including a season ending ACL tear to Matt Shoemaker April 20 in a run down. The Blue Jays outscored the A's 36-13. Tomorrow's pitching matchup will be lefty Steven Matz going up against an unannounced Oakland pitcher.

Game 25! Atlanta Braves @ The Toronto BP Days

 

Game #24: Braves @ Jays | Dunedin, 7:30 PM

 

Game #24 Atlanta Braves (12-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-12) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk had his first multi-HR game of his career in a 13-5 rout over the Atlanta Braves

After a tough loss to earn the series split to Washington, the Blue Jays welcomed the Braves for a weekend series in Dunedin. Last season, the Braves won 2/3 games in the season series and outscored the Blue Jays 15-6. Tonight was a battle of veteran lefties with Drew Smyly pitching against Blue Jays southpaw Robbie Ray. Teoscar Hernandez returned to the lineup in RF after missing 16 games with a bout of COVID-19. Jonathan Davis was option to the alt. squad. Tanner Roark was DFA'd. Nate Pearson was activated from the IL yesterday but will do a rehab assignment in the minors first. George Springer was in the leadoff spot serving as the DH, as he continues to work his way back to full health from a nagging quad strain. Alejandro Kirk got the start as Ray's personal catcher. Randal Grichuk was in CF. Espinal Santiago got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays open the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Randal Grichuk hammered a 2-run bomb to right-center also scoring George Springer 
• The Blue Jays added two runs in the bottom of the 4th as Alejandro Kirk hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Randal Grichuk whacked a solo blast down the left field line
• Four batters later, Kirk annihilated a two-run bomb to dead center also scoring Marcus Semien
• Drew Smyly pitching line: 4IP 7H 6R (5 earned) 4BB 3K 84 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added three runs in the bottom of the 6th as Teoscar Hernandez hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center also scoring Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Braves got a pair back in the top of the 7th as Ozzie Albies cranked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Marcell Ozuna
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6.2IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 95 pitches (68 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a wild pitch by Sean Newcombe that scored Santiago Espinal
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Kirk 
• The Braves got one back in the top of the 8th as Freddie Freeman singled scoring Ehlre Adrianza
• A batter later, Ozuna singled scoring Alex Jackson and Ronald Acuna
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Gurriel Jr. cranked a solo blast to left-center 
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Braves 5

My Take:

• Robbie Ray had a strong start, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 5 over 6.2 innings. At one point, Ray retired 13 batters in a row. The only inning he got in trouble was the 7th where he allowed his only two runs on a 2-run HR and 2 other hits.
• It was a home run fest right from the get-go. Thirteen of the combined eighteen runs came courtesy of the long ball. Alejandro Kirk had the first multi-home run game of his career and drove in four runs. Teoscar Hernandez, in his first game back after batting COVID-19, hammered a 3-run bomb. Bo Bichette got it started with a 2-run shot of his own. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Randal Grichuk both had solo shots
• Every Blue Jays hitter but Marcus Semien had at least one hit. Semien drew a walk and scored
• George Springer is finding his stroke as well. He got his first hit as a Blue Jay, leading off the game with a single. He also drew a pair of walks and scored his first run as a Blue Jay on Bichette's HR,
• A bit unfortunate that the Blue Jays had to use three relievers to get the final 8 outs, especially with tomorrow expected to be a bullpen day. Unfortunately Ryan Borucki was knocked around, giving up 3 runs on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out one and only managing 2 outs in the 6 batters he faced.
• Despite putting up 13 runs, the Blue Jays could have had many more runs. They were 4-13 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the weekend series vs. the Braves. It will be another 7:37EDT start time. Charlie Morton will be starting for the Braves and the Blue Jays will likely turn to one of Ttent Thornton or David Phelps to be the opener in a bullpen day