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 #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 #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 #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 #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 #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 #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 #149 Baltimore Orioles (69-80) @ Toronto Blue Jays (87-62) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in 3 runs and scored a run in an 11-2 comeback win over the Orioles

After a walk-off win yesterday thanks to a clutch sac fly off the bat of Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 11th series sweep and to notch their 19th series win of the season. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Joey Loperfido was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 11th series sweep and to notch their 19th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Coby Mayo hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue jays tied it in the bottom of the 3rd as George Springer doubled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Albert Suarez pitching line: 3IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 53 pitches (31 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Daulton Varsho
• The Blue jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Springer belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Joey Loperfido doubled scoring Clement
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 5K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 7th as Colton Cowser whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Blue jays added 3 runs in the bottom half of the inning as Addison Barger doubled scoring Springer, Nathan Lukes and Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• A batter later, Kirk singled scoring Barger
• Two batters later,  Clement singled scoring Tyler Heineman 
• A batter later,  Varsho scored on a fielder's choice hit by Loperfido 
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Orioles 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and  striking out 5. He retired 11 of the last 13 batters he faced and only really threw one pitch he'll want back (the one Coby Mayo crushed to deep center field. Bieber should be in the playoff rotation
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. The score allowed the Blue Jays to rest their high leverage relievers for a tougher series in Tampa Bay starting tomorrow
• Offensively, George Springer (2 RBI, 2 runs scored including solo HR), Addison Barger (3RBI, run scored), Alejandro Kirk (RBI, run scored) Ernie Clement (3RBI, run scored) and Joey Loperfido (2RBI) led the way
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Davis Schneider and  Vlad had at least one hit.
• The Blue Jays were 6-13 with runners in scoring position
• The comeback kids did it again! The Blue Jays completed their 46th comeback win of the season and are now just 4 comeback wins shy of the franchise record set by the juggernaut 1987 squad
• Standings wise, the Blue Jays will remain 2.5 games up on the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS, along with an all-important bye to the divisional round. For the moment, The Yankees are 3.5 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East and it is looking like the division title will be between the Blue Jays and Yankees with the Red Sox slipping to 6 games back of 1st in the AL East and picking a bad time to slump.
• Up next, the Blue Jays commence their final road trip of the season as they head south to take on the Rays in Tampa Bay. The Rays have taken 5 of the first 6 games in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 39-17. Number 2 prospect Trey Yesavage will make his big league debut. The Rays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #147 Baltimore Orioles (69-78) @ Toronto Blue Jays (85-62) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in a pair and scored once in a 6-1 comeback win over the Orioles

After a win yesterday thanks to a complete game gem, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they welcomed the Orioles, who won the first 6 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 73-48. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in CF and George Springer was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner, Ernie Clement was at SS and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Jackson Holliday singled scored Samuel Basallo
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Davis Schneider. Orioles CF Colton Cowser was charged with a fielding error on the play
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 75 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Trevor Rogers pitching line: 5IP 3H (unearned) 4BB 6K 79 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Myles Straw doubled scoring IKF
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Ernie Clement singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Straw and Springer
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled home Varsho. Guerrero Jr, was thrown out at 2B on the play.
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Orioles 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 5 innings, giving up a run on 2 hits, while walking 1 and striking out 6. Bassitt retired 5 of the first 6 batters he faced and the last 8 batters in a row. Unfortunately he couldn;t continue after the 5th inning due to his back tightening up on him. Bassit could be the odd man out of the playoff rotation.
• After a complete day off yesterday, the bullpen pitched 4 scoreless innings, giving up a hit, walking 3 and striking out 3. Brayden Fisher was credited with the win. Louis Varland and Brandon Little retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Daulton Varsho (2RBI, run scored), George Springer (2 runs scored) and Myles Straw (RBI, run scored) led the way.
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position
• The comeback kids did it again! The Blue Jays notched their 44th comeback win of the season. They have a chance of matching the franchise record, 50 comeback wins, set by the 1987 team. the 1992 and 1993 world series winning teams had 40 and 44 comeback wins respectively.
• Standings wise, the Red Sox dropped to 4.5 game back with their loss to the Yankees, who remain 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. The Blue Jays are also a game up on the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 27th series win of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Orioles righty Tomoyuki Sugano

Game #110 Toronto Blue Jays (64-46) @ Baltimore Orioles (50-59) - game recap

Nathan Lukes hit a 3- run HR in a 9-8 comeback win over the Orioles

After getting swept in the double header yesterday,  the Blue Jays were trying to snap unge 4-game skid and avoid getting swept for the 5th time this season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Ali Sanchez behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Will Wagner at 1B. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing in the second game of the double header.  Davis Schneider was in LF and Joey Loperfido was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4 game skid and avoid being swept for the 5th time this season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a sac fly by Adley Rutschman that scored Jackson Holliday
• A batter later,  Ryan O'Hearn hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Gunnar Henderson
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 2nd as Myles Straw whacked a 2- run blast to left- center; also scoring Addison Barger 
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Ali Sanchez
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Jordan Westburg belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Alex Jackson
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 5R (2 earned) 0BB 3K 73 pitches (49 for strikes)
• Dean Kremer pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 87 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Straw doubled scoring Davis Schneider
• The Blue jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Joey Loperfido and Ernie Clement 
• Three batters later,  Nathan Lukes drilled a 3-run blast to right; also scoring Barger and Bichette
• The Orioles got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Henderson singled scoring Holliday
• A batter later,  Westburg scored on a fielding error by Blue Jays 1B Ernie Clement on a ball hit by Rutschman 
• Two batters later, Henderson was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Colton Cowser 
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 25th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Orioles 8

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 5 runs (2 earned) on 6 hits while walking none and striking out 3. A throwing error by Ernie Clement resulted in three unearned runs. He wasn't at his best, but he limited the damage after a rough 1st inning. 
• The bullpen gave up three runs (2 earned) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 9 over the last 4.2 innings. Brandon Little, Seranthony Dominguez (who switched bullpen yesterday after a trade in the middle of yesterday's double header), Brayden Fisher and Jeff Hoffman all retired every batter they faced. Odd decision to use both lefty relievers back to back. It hindered the teams ability to match at the end of the ball game. 
• Myles Straw (3 RBI, including a 2- run HR), Vlad (RBI single), Bo Bichette (2-run single) and Nathan Lukes (3-run HR) drove the offense today
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Addison Barger,  Will Wagner and Davis Schneider had a hit 
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next,  after an off-day/travel day, the Blue Jays open a brief homestand against the Kansas City Royals, who took the season series last year 5-2, outscoring the Blue Jays 26-18. Michael Wacha starts for the Royals. The Blue Jays haven't set their rotation for the series yet

Game #107 Toronto Blue Jays (63-44) @ Baltimore Orioles (48-58) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run HR in an 11-4 loss to the Orioles

After a tough loss yesterday due to the bullpen imploding, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win as they continued the road trip in Baltimore. The Blue Jays and Orioles split the first 6 games of the season series with the Orioles outscoring the Blue Jays 35-29. Will Wagner is back from seeing his dad inducted into the baseball hall of fame and was reinstated from the restricted list. Alan Roden was optioned back to AAA-ball. Bowden Francis was transferred to the 60-day IL. Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Addison Barger was in RF. Will Wagner got the start at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Cedric Mullin hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Ryan O'Hearn
• A batter later, Coby Mayo drilled a solo bomb to left-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 3rd as Nathan Lukes whacked a solo blast to right-center
• Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring George Springer
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Adley Rutschman doubled scoring Jordan Westburg and Gunnar Henderson
• Two batters later, Ramon Laureano singled scoring Rutschman
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 2.1IP 7H 6R (all scored) 1BB 4K 69 pitches (43 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th on a line out hit by Will Wagner that scored Ernie Clement
• Zach Eflin pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 4R (all earned) 1BB 3K 79 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 5th as O'Hearn doubled scoring Rutschman
• A batter later, Laureano belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring O'Hearn
• Three batters later, Colton Cowser scored on a ground out hit by Mayo
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Cowser hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Very scary moment in the 9th inning with Springer getting drilled in the head by a fastball. Expect him to miss at least tomorrow's double header.
• Final score: Orioles 11 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Chris Bassit was lit up for 6 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over 1.2 innings. Unfortunate timig for a bad day at the office with the Blue Jays set for a double header tomorrow and an early game Wednesday. The Blue Jays may need to make a move for a fresh arm to get through tomorrow. the 27th man may not suffice. They have a few options in Baltimore with Lazaro Estrada, Paxton Schultz and Easton Lucas all having lockers. At least one will be the 27th man and possibly Justin Bruihl could be optioned since he has played 2 days in a row
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 11 hits while walking 2 and striking out 3 over the last 5.2 innings. Four of the runs were charged to Brandon Little who only retired one of the batters he faced. Brayden Fisher retired every batter he faced. A little surprised the Blue Jays didn't throw a position player out there to pitch the 9th.
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes (solo HR), Vlad (2-run HR) and Will Wagner (RBI lineout) carried the day
• Every Blue Jays starter except Addison Barger reached base at least once and all but Barger, Springer and Wagner had a hit
• There has to be comcerned about Springer's health after he wa drilled up high by a fastball. Luckily it hit his shoulder first and he was able to turn away to lessen the blow a tad. Very good sign he was able to walk off the field with the assistance of the two Blue Jays trainers. He likely won't play tomorrow and could be out longer if he has a concussion
• The Blue Jays were 0-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the first game of tomorrow's double headeer. Eric Lauer will start the 1st game. The Orioles haven't announced their starter for the 1st game.

Game #16 - Toronto Blue Jays (9-7) @ Baltimore Orioles (6-9) - game recap

 

Myles Straw drove in the winning run in a 7-6 extra-innings thrilling comeback win by the Blue Jays over the division rival Orioles

After a tough loss thanks to Bowden Francis giing up 5 runs in the 5th and 6th innings combined, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and end the first road trip of the season with a win. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Anthony Santander in RF. Davis Schneider was in LF and Miles Straw was in CF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and end the 1st road trip of the season on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st on a wild pitch by Jose Berrios that scored Gunnar Henderson
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 2nd as Alejandro Kirk whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Ryan Mountcastle smacked a solo blast to left
• The Blue jays tied it up in the top of the 3rd as Vladimir Guerrero Jr.  singled scoring Davis Schneider
• The Orioles retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a fielder's choice hit by Adley Rutschman that scored Henderson
• Orioles manager Brandon Hyde was ejected from the game for arguing balls and strikes
• The Orioles added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Tyler O'Neill belted a solo jack to left-center
• George Springer left the game after the top of the 5th street he appeared to injure his wrist swinging the bat
• Cade Povich pitching line: 4.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 2K 76 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a run back in the top of the 6th as Myles Straw singled scoring Ernie Clement
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 6K 86 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning on a fielding error by Guerrero Jr on a ball hit by Jackson Holliday that scored Heston Kjerstad and Mountcastle
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 8th as Kirk doubled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Three batters later, Tyler Heineman scored on a ground out hit by Schneider
• A batter later, Bo Bichette singled home Clement
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th on an infield single by Straw that scored Gimenez
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Orioles 6 (10 innings) 

My Take: 

• Jose Berrios battled through 5 innings,  giving up 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. The Orioles were able to tack on runs in each of the first 4 innings and took Berrios yard twice.  Berrios also uncorked a wild pitch. He also picked off a runner at 2nd base for the second straight start to escape the 3rd inning jam. The Blue Jays offense was able to get him off the hook for a no decision.
• The bullpen was solid when it needed to be. It gave up a pair of runs in the 6th, but that was a result of a fielding error by Vlad on a play he should have made. Brandon Little and Yimi Garcia both retired every batter they faced. Jeff Hoffman channeled his inner Trevor Hoffman with 2 solid innings and ended the game with 2 straight K's. 
• The bottom haldf of the lineup did most of the damage. Myles Straw had 2 RBI, including the game-winning run in the 10th. Ernie Clement was 4-5 on the day and scored twice, and Davis Schneider knocked in a run and scored a run. Alejandro Kirk hit his first HR of the season and had a very big RBI double to start the 3-run rally in the 8th
• Every Blue Jays starter except George Springer, who left the game after injuring himself on a hard swing, had at least one hit.
• The Blue Jays were 7-20 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home to start a weeklong homestand starting tomorrow night against the Braves, who who the season series last season, but the Blue Jays outscored the Braves 13-12. Easton Lucas starts against Braves righty Grant Holmes

Game #15 - Toronto Blue Jays (8-7) @ Baltimore Orioles (6-8) - game recap

 

Anthony Santander hit his first home run as a Blue Jay against his former team in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 5-4

After the first rainout of the season, the Blue Jays moved to the 3rd and final stop of the season-opening road trip and a rematch with the Orioles. The two squads split the 4 games of the season-opening series in Toronto with the Orioles outscoring the Blue Jays 24-18. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the lineup and at 1B after missing the last game to nurse an ailing wrist. The rest of the lineup was the same as Thursday's extra innings loss in Boston. Could the Blue Jays start the abbreviated weekend with a win? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 2nd as Bichette singled home Nathan Lukes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Anthony Santander hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• Tomoyuki Sugano pitching line: 4.2IP 8H 3R (all earned) 2BB 0K 73 pitches (45 for strikes)
• The Orioles got a pair back in the bottom of the 5th as Heston Kjerstad hammered a solo bomb to dead center; also scoring Cedric Mullins
• The Orioles tied it up in the bottom of the 6th as Adley Rutschman belted a solo jack to right-center
• Three batters later,  Mullins tripled scoring Jordan Westburg and Ryan O'Hearn
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 5.2IP 4H 5R (all earned) 2BB 5K 96 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th on a double play ball hit by Bichette that scored Lukes
• Felix Bautista pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Orioles 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take

• Bowden Francis retired the first 13 batters he faced before the Orioles got to him to the tune of 5 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks. Was Francis trying to pitch too fine knowing the potential of what was happening? The Orioles took him deep twice and capped off the damage with a triple. Pitching from the stretch is different from pitching with no runners on, although Francis uses a stance more similar to a reliever, standing sideways to the bitter as opposed to facing the bitter dead on.  Francis has been one of the more pleasant surprises of the past few seasons. 
• The bullpen did its part to give the Blue Jays a chance to mount a comeback, limiting the Orioles to a hit and a hit batter over the last 2.1 innings. Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced.
• The offense jumped on starter Tomoyuki Sugano early, scoring a run in three of the first four innings. Anthony Santander homered for the first time in a Blue Jays uniform back in his old stomping grounds at Oriole Park in Camden Yards. Bo Bichette scored a run and drove in a run. Vlad also contributed an RBI double. The trouble was after they knocked Sugano out of the game, the Blue Jays produced one more run in the 7th, but could not tie the game with Bichette striking out to end the game.
• Quirky play of the day: a fly ball out by Santander that appeared to advance Vlad and Bichette on the play turned to to be a double play because Vlad left 1st base before Orioles RF Tyler O'Neill had caught the ball
• The Blue Jays were 4-13 with runners in scoring position. The Orioles were 2-3 with runners in scoring position and that was the difference maker in today's loss
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the road trip with a win and escape Baltimore with a series split. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Orioles lefty Cade Povich

Game #4 - Baltimore Orioles (2-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-2) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run single in a 3-1 win over the Orioles

After a dreadful loss thanks to a disasterous effort from the bullpen, the Blue Jays were looking to salvage a series sweep and avoid the first series loss of the season. Max Scherzer was placed on the 15-day IL as he deals with a thumb issue that caused him to leave yesterday's game after just three innings when his right lat tightened up. Lefty Richard Loveday was DFA'd after an ugly appearance yesterday where he was tagged for 4 runs. Lefties Lucas Eason and Mason Fluharty were recalled from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the half day off as DH with George Springer in RF. Myles Straw got the start in CF. Will Wagner was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays earn the series split? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st on a wild pitch by Chris Bassitt that scored Ryan O'Hearn
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer singled scoring Bo Bichette and Andres Gimenez
• Tomoyuki Sugano pitching line: 4IP4H 2R (both earned) 2BB 1K 73 pitches (45 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 8H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 106 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Tyler Heineman whacked a solo blast to left
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 1st save of the season 
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Orioles 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7. He threw a wild pitch in the 1st inning for the run he squandered. He dealt with base runners in every inning, but he was able to pitch his way out of the jams.
• The bullpen threw 3 scoreless innings, giving up a hit, walking none and striking out 4. Little had a nice efficient inning after leaving an appearance 2 days ago with a lat strain. Hoffman also looked good for his first save of the season.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got the key insurance run from an unlikely source with Tyler Heineman hitting his first home run since way back on September 26, 2019 in his 4th career game. George Springer also contributed with a clutch 2-run single.
• The Blue Jays were 1-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a 3-game series agaainst the Nationals. The Nats won the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 23-17. Bowden Francis starts against Nationals righty Michael Soroka

Game #3 - Baltimore Orioles (2-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 4-4 with 2 runs scored in a 9-5 loss to the Orioles

After both teams traded blowout wins, the Blue Jays were looking to take the series lead. Veteran Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Anthony Santander was in RF. Will Wagner served as DH. George Springer got the complete day off. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Colton Cowser led off the game with a solo bomb to dead center
• Three batters later, Jordan Westburg belted a solo jack to straightaway center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Anthony Santander singled scoring Bo Bichette, Santander's 1st RBI as a Blue Jay
• Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 3rd as AndresGimenez drilled a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Bichette
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 3IP 3H 2R (both earned) 0BB 1K 45 pitches (28 for strikes)
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Gary Sanchez that scored Ryan O'Hearn
• Two batters later Roman Urias doubled scoring Cedric Mullins, Hester Kjerstad and Jackson Holliday
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 4th as Mullins singled scoring Adley Rutschman
• A batter later, Westburg scored on a sac fly by Kjerstad 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out by Guerrero Jr. that scored Nathan Lukes
• Dean Kremer pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 5R (all earned) 0BB 1K 81 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 7th as Westburg hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Final score: Orioles 9 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

• It was a disappointing outing for Max Scherzer, who left his first start in a Blue Jays uniform after just 3 innings and 45 pitches with tightness in his right lat. He gave up a pair of solo home runs in the 1st inning, 3 hits overall, didn't walk a batter and struck out 1 batter. The bigger concern is his health, which has been hampered by a nagging thumb injury that seems to affect him around the 45 pitch mark. Hopefully the issue is not too serious and Scherzer doesn't miss more than a start. Last season, Scherzer was limited to just 9 starts and 43.1 innings.
• The bullpen gave up 7 runs on 9 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8 over the last 6 innings. The Blue Jays have to be second-guessing letting Ryan Yarbrough go with lefty Richard Loveday struggling immensley. I do think having a couple of lefties in the bullpen is an asset to face the left-handed batters in the lineups and turn around the switch hitters and make them bat right-handed. Maybe the Blue Jays should take a flyer on Aaron Loup or Taylor Saucedo again.
• Offensively, Andres Gimenez continues to swing a hot stick (he went yard for 2 runs in the 3rd inning of this game). Anthony Santander got his 1st RBI as a Blue Jay. Bo Bichette had his best game of the season, going 4-4 with 2 runs scored. At the end of the day, the Blue Jays couldn't manufacture a run when it mattered and that was a problem last year too.
• The Blue Jays were an abysmal 1-14 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for the series split to start the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Orioles righty Tomoyuki Sugano.

Game #2 - Baltimore Orioles (1-1) @ Toronto Blue Jays (1-1) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit a 2-run double in an 8-2 victory over the Orioles

After a blowout loss to open the 2025 season, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the half day off as DH with Alan Roden in LF. Nathan Lukes was in CF and George Springer was in RF. Will Wagner was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Jackson Holiday hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Tyler O'Neil that scored Adleu Rutschman
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a bases loaded walk to Nathan Lukers that forced in Alejandro Kirk
• A batter later, George Springer scored on a sac fly by Alan Roden
• A batter later, Will Wagner scored on a wild pitch by Albert Suare
• A batter after that, Lukes scored on a sac fly by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• A batter later, Anthony Santander singled scoring Bo Bichette
• Charlie Moron pittching line: 3.1IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 3K 80 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Bichette singled scoring Lukes
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Ernie Clement doubled home Santander and Andres Gimenez
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Orioles 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman had a solid 1st start of the season, firing 6 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4.. He retired the first 7 batters he faced and the final 5 batters he faced. What was especially encuraging was the good velocity he had going tonight, which made his splitter even nastier.
• The bullpen threw 3 scoreless innings, ceding 3 walks and striking out 5. Nick Sandin was responsible for the 3 walks.
• Offensively, small ball was the key factor. Case in point, they scored 4 of the 5 runs in the 4th inning rally on a bases loaded walk, a wild pitch and 2 sac flies
• A few firsts to note: Alan Roden recorded his first career RBI, Anthony Santander had his first hit in a Blue Jays uniform and scored his first run as a Blue Jay and Nick Sandin recorded his first strikeout as a Blue Jay
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and try to take the series lead. Max Scherzer starts against Orioles righty Dean Kremer

Game #1 - Baltimore Orioles (1-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (0-1) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez hit a 2-run HR in a 12-2 loss to the Orioles to snap a 5-game opening day win streak

The Blue Jays kicked off the 2025 season against their division rivals the Baltimore Orioles. The Blue Jays will be looking to improve on a dreadful 2024 season that saw them finish last in the AL East with a 74-88 record. The Blue Jays came into today's game with a 25-20 record on openig day and were looking to extend their opening dsy streak. The Blue Jays were 39-42 at home last season. The Orioles won the season series 7-6, outscoring the Blue Jays 75-51 last season. Newcomer Anthony Santander (LF) will be looking to add some pop to the lineup. Andre Gimenez will strengthen the infield defense and give the Blue Jays stability at 2B. Alan Roden will make his big league debut in CF today (he and Nathan Lukes will likely platoon in CF until Daultom Varsho is ready to play. Jose Berrios got his  3rd opening day start in the last 4 seasons with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette opened the season as the leadoff hitter. George Springer was in his customary CF position and bashed 6th in the lineup behind Kirk.  Alan Roden made his regular season MLB debut in RF and free agent slugger Anthony Santander made his blue jays debut in LF. Andres Gimenez made his Blue Jays debut batting cleanup. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner.  Could the Blue Jays open the season with a win? Here is  today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Adley Rutschman hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 2nd as Cedric Mullins singled scoring Tyler 
• The Orioles added three runs in the top of the 3rd as O'Neill smacked a 3- run blast to the opposite field in right and into the Orioles bullpen, also scoring Colton Cowser and Rutschman
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 4th as Mullins belted a solo jack to right-center
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Andres Gimenez drilled a 2- run bomb to right- center, also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5IP 9H 6R (all earned) 2BB 5K 90 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Zach Eflin pitching line: 6IP 2H 2R (both earned) 1BB 2K 78 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Orioles added 3 runs in the top of the 7th as Mullins drilled a 3- run bomb to right- center; also scoring O'Neill and Ryan Mountcastle
• The Orioles added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Rutschman annihilated a 2-run bomb to the 2md deck in right; also scoring Jackson Holiday
• A batter later, Jordan Westburg hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Final score: Orioles 12 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios had a rough outing, giving up 6 runs on 9 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5 over 5 innings. The Orioles took him deep 3 times and he dealt with multiple base runners every inning. Could he have been too hyped up for this start, being at home for the first time in 2 years? The last time he had a rough opening day start was in 2022 at the Roger's Center. He had a better opening day start on the road in Tampa Bay last year.
• The bullpen gave up 6 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 4 innings. Righty Nick Sandin was the only reliever to retire eery batter he faced
• Offensively, Andres Gimenez gave the Blue Jays their only 2 runs, going yard for 2 runs. How many fans had Gimenez hitting the first Blue Jays home run of 2025?
• Bo Bichette was 0-4 in the leadoff spot. Might George Springer get the opportunity tomorrow? I personally think Bichette is more suited in the number 2 spot in the lineup. I would also move Vlad and Santander down a spot each
• Apparrently spring training really has no  bearing on the regular season. The Blue Jays were terrific in spring training and then had this clunker on opening day. Of course, baseball is the only league where the playing dimensions differ stadium to stadium and the spring training facilities differ from regular season dimensions. Also, there were three full days off after the last spring training game on Sunday.
• Here's hoping the Vlad not signing a long-term deal doesn't become a major distraction that ultimately affects both his and the team's performance.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series.  Kevin Gausman starts against Orioles righty Charlie Morton

-Game #115 - Baltimore Orioles (68-48) @ Toronto Blue Jays (53-62) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was 3-4 with 4RBI and 2 runs scored and finished a sungle shy of the cycle in a 7-6 win over the Orioles

After a tough loss due to the bullpen coughing up another lead, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid their 20th series loss of the season. Genesis Cabrera was placed on the paternity leave. Tommy Nance, acquired from the Padres for cash considerations took his roster spot. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger. Joey Loperfido was in LF. Vlad was back at 1B, Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Spencer Horwitz was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays avoid their 20th series loss? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring George Springer. The hit extended Guerrero Jr's hitting streak to 20 games
• Two batters later, Daulton Varsho scored on a balk charged to Dean Kremer
• Same batter, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Orioles got a pair back in the bottom of the 3rd as Colton Cowley whacked a 2-run blast to  the opposite field in left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Ramon Urias 
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. Smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center and into the Orioles bullpen; also scoring Varsho
• Dean Kremer pitching line: 4.1IP 4H 5R (all earned) 5BB 6K 96 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Varsho  singled scoring Leo Jimenez
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. tripled home Jimenez
• Kevin Gausman pitching line; 8IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 2K 100 pitches (69 for strikes)
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 9th as Ryan O'Hearn scored on a fielder's choice on a ball hit by Jackson Holliday 
• A batter later, Cedric Mullins doubled scoring Ryan Mountcastle
• Two batters later, Cowley singled scoring Mullins and Holliday
• Chad Green got the last 3 outs for his 10th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Orioles 6

My Take:

•  Kevin Gausman pitched 8 strong innings, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 2. He retired the first 8 batters he faced and after walking a batter with one out in the 4th, Gausman retired 14 of the last 15 he faced. Gausman should be a candidate for the opening day start next year and if the 2025 season goes sideways, he should fetch a big return in a trade.
• The bullpen very nearly blew the lead. Zack Pop, who did not record an out, loaded the bases on 3 singles. Chad Green gave up a further 2 hits. The bullpen needs a major revamping in the off-season. At this point, Green, Branden Little and maybe Erik Swanson have strong holds on roles next year. Genesis Cabrera has also earned a chance. 
• It was the Vladdty show again. The red-hot Blue Jays star not only extended his hit streak to 20 games in his first AB, driving in the opening run in the process, Vlad finished a single short of the cycle. Forget about plugging the holes in the lineup, the top priority has to be signing Vlad to a big 10 year deal. He's the one this team needs to be built around. 
• Oh yeah and Daulton Varsho (2 RBI, 3 runs scored) and Alejandro Kirk (2RBI) had good days at the plate too
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays open their final series against the Oakland A's, who will be moving to Sacramento until the stadium is ready in their new home in Vegas in a couple of years. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 from Oakland in their final visit there 2 months ago, outscoring the A's 14-6. Jose Berrios starts against A's righty Mitch Spence

Game #114 - Baltimore Orioles (68-47) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-62) - game recap

 

Bowden Francis threw 5 solid innings in a losing effort as the Orioles came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-3

After playing spoiler and pulling off a win over the Orioles on the back of a 5-run rally in the 6th inning, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win and 12th series win. Bowden Francis got the start with Brian Serven behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start in LF, Vlad was at the hot corner and Spencer Horwirz was at 1B. Leo Jimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and 12 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Orioles opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Anthony Santander whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scorring Colton Cowser
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extended his hitting streak to 19 games with a single in the 1st inning
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac fly by Spencer Horwitz
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom of the 2nd as Brian Serven singled scoring Leo Jimenez
• Two batters later, Serven scored on a throwing error by Orioles 3B Coby Mayo that scored Serven
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 7K 81 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Trevor Rogers pitching line: 5IP7H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 2K 94 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Orioles took the lead in the top of the 7th as Jackson Holliday belted a 2-run jack to right; also scoring Eloy Jimenez
• The Orioles added a run in the top of the 8th as Santander hammered a solo bomb to left-center
• Six batters later, Jimenez doubled scoring Austin Slater and Adley Rutschman
• Final score: Orioles 7 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Bowden Francis may have had his best start in a Blue Jays uniform, firing 5 innings, allowing a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. After giving up a leadoff double in the 2nd, Francis retired 8 of the next 10 batters he faced. He needs to pitch well to show he can be an option in the rotation next year since there will be 2 open spots with Yusei Kikuchi gone and Alek Manoah not coming back before June and could be after the all-star break.
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. Ryan Burr was tagged with both a blown save and the loss after giving up a 2-run HR in the 7th inning. Newbie Ryan Yarbrough was responsible for the other three runs the bullpen gave up. Yerry Rodriguez was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.The bullpen has to be the priority in the off-season
• Offensively, Ernie Clement (RBI and forced a throwing error for another run) and Brian Serven (run scored, RBI) did the damage.
• As has been a problem the last couple of season, the Blue Jays had their opportunities to score, but largely failed to get the clutch hits. Tonight, the team was 2-10 with runners in scoring position.
• Up nextt, the Blue Jays try to avoid their 20th series loss of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Oroles righty Dean Kremer

Game #113 - Baltimore Orioles (67-47) @ Toronto Blue Jays (52-61) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk hit a 3-run HR in a 5-3 win over the Orioles

After an off-day yesterday, the blue Jays opened the first homestand since the trade deadline against the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles have won 6 of the 10 meetings in the season series thus far, outscoring the Blue Jays 60-36. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after serving as DH Sunday (Spencer Horwitz served as DH tonight). George Springer was back in the lineup and in RF after missing a game Sunday with a shin contusion. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Leo Jimenez was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week and homestand with a win? Here is tonught's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Albert Suarez pitching line: 5IP 2H 0R 2BB 6K 73 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Orioles took the lead in the top of the 6th as Jackson Holliday hammered a solo bomb to right-center
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extended his hit streak to 18 games with a single in the bottom half of the inning
• Two batters later. the Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk belted a 3-run jack to left-center; also scoring Vladimir Guerreo Jr. and Spencer Horwitz
• Three batters later, Addison Barger doubled scoring Daulton Varsho and Ernie Clement
• The Orioles got one back in the top of the 8th as Adley Rutschman was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Austin Slater 
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 7IP 3H 2R (both earned) 2BB 9K 100 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Chad Green pitched a perfect 9th for his 9th save of the season. He has earned a role in the bullpen next year.
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Orioles 2

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt may have had his best start of the season, pitching into the 8th inning, giving up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 9. Two of the hits and one of the walks came in the 8th inning where he clearly ran out of gas. After walking the leadoff hitter in the 2nd, Bassitt retired 14 of the next 16 batters he faced. Kudos to Bassitt for offering an x (formerly twitter) Blue Jays fan who lost his mom tickets to Blue Jays games.
• The bullpen gave up a walk while striking out 3 over the last 2 innings. Genesis Cabrera did well to escape a bases loaded jam he inherited with just one run allowed. Chad Green retired every batter he faced.
• The offense did all the damage in the 6th inning led by Alejandro Kirk (3-run HR) and Addison Barger (2-run double)
• And Vlad remains red hot. He extended his hitting streak to 18 games with a single in the 6th inning. Will be fun to see how long he can keep it up. Signing him to a long-term contract should be the second priority this off-season (the first has to be letting Ross Atkins go and a new GM make the roster moves). Here's a crazy idea, bat Vladdy leadoff until he doesn't get a hit. the top 2 players in the lneup were a combined 0-8.
• Bo Bichette and Jordan Romano should both focus their rehab on returning in 2025. The team will need both at full strength next season and it's not worth a setback trying to rush back.
• Here's hoping hometown hero Joey Votto joins the team in the next week or so. The fans need something to cheer about
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and 12 series wins. Bowden Francis starts against Orioles lefty Trevor Rogers