Game #93 Toronto Blue Jays (54-39) @ Chicago White Sox (31-62) - game recap

 

Tyler Heineman drove in the Blue Jays only run in a 2-1 come-from-behind loss to the White Sox

After yet another win on the strength of a 5- run 3rd inning in a rain-shortened game yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to increase the win streak to a franchise- record tying 11 games and to complete their 8th series sweep and notch their 10th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Will Wagner at 1B. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays tie the franchise record of 11 straight wins, complete their 8th series sweep and notch their 10th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Tyler Heineman singled scoring Will Wagner 
• The White Sox tied it up in the bottom of the 4th as Edgar Quero doubled scoring Austin Slater
• Two batters later, Lenyn Sosa singled scoring Quero
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 4IP 4H 2R ,(both earned) 1BB 7K 68 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Ryan Burr left his appearance in the 7th inning with a shoulder injury. Very likely going on the IL
• Adrian Houser pitching line: 7IP 7H 1R ,(earned) 2BB 2K 96 pitches (70 for strikes)
• Jordan Leasure pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season.
• Final score: White Sox 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer battled through 4 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. John Schneider should have given him an extra inning or two.  Lauer was great the first 3 innings, retiring 9 of the first 10 batters he faced. Yes, he had a stressful and long inning in the 4th, but the bullpen has pitched a ton of innings in the 1st half. With the uncertainty with Max Scherzer's thumb injury and the uncertainty of Alek Manoah when he likely returns in August, I can see the Blue Jays going to a six-man rotation in the second half of the season. They will also likely look at acquiring a starting pitcher or long reliever at the trade deadline to give the team more options to save the bullpen down the stretch.
• The bullpen threw 4 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits, walking none and striking out 5. Kudos to Yariel Rodriguez, who inherited a 3-2 count when he came into the game for Burr, who was forced to leave the game mid-at-bat after reinjuring his shoulder, and struck out the batter on his first pitch.
• There has to be big concerns for Burr, who just came back after missing the first three months with a shoulder injury. Don't be surprised if this injury ends his season. He has a history with shoulder issues already and it is not a good sign he hurt it again so soon after coming off the IL. The Blue Jays are already trying to do without Yimi Garcia and Nick Sandlin. Good thing the all-star break is coming up soon
• Offensively, the Blue Jays were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. For sure, a soggy field was a big factor. Vlad getting thrown out at 3rd base on a bad base running decision didn't help. Neither did grounding into 2 double plays and Leo Jimenez lining into a 3rd double play.
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays head west to Sacramento, the temporary home of the Athletics, who will be moving to Las Vegas in a couple of years. The Blue Jays. The Blue Jays swept the A's in Toronto at the end of May, outscoring the A's 18-14. Max Scherzer starts against A's righty Luis Severino

Game #91 Toronto Blue Jays (53-38) @ Chicago White Sox (30-61) - game recap

Joey Loperfido drove in 3 runs, including a solo HR, in an 8-4 come-from-behind win over the White Sox

 

After completing the sweep on the strength of 2 runs scored, including a home run and a nice 107 pitch effort from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 9 games as they hit the road in the final week before the all-star break starting in Chicago tonight against the Southsiders (White Sox). The White Sox took the series in Toronto, outscoring the Blue Jays 22-20. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Will Wagner was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 9 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The white Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Brooks Baldwin singled scoring Kyle Teel
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 4th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr 
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 5th as Joey Loperfido whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• A batter later, Nathan Lukes belted a solo jack to right
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Addison Barger hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Bichette
• Four batters later, Loperfido singled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Myles Straw
• A batter later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac bunt by Lukes
• Sean Burke pitching line: 5IP 6H 6R (all earned) 3BB 2K 85 pitches (50 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 76 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The White Sox got a pair back in the bottom of the 7th as Mike Tauchman singled scoring Colson Montgomery and Josh Rojas
• The White Sox got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Lenyn Sosa singled scoring Miguel Vargas
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 White Sox 4

My Take:

• Jose Berrios gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 4. The Blue Jays definitelt should have let him go one more inning with the bullpen running on fumes. Berrios really didn't have any hard innings, except the 2nd inning. Berrios retired 8 in a row at one point, the first 4 batters he faced and the last 4 batters he faced/
• The bullpwn gave up 3 runs (all charged to Robinson Pina, on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Nick Sandlin retired every batter he faced/
• Offensively, Joey Loperfield (3RBI, including a solo HR) Nathan Lukes (2 RBI, including a solo HR), Bo Bichette (run scored, RBI) and  Addison Barger (2 RBI, including a solo HR) led the way
• Every starter except George Springer and Will Wagner reached base and all but Springer, Wagner and Vlad had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 4-6 with runners in scoring posirion
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 10 games and notch their 16th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Aaron Civalde

Game #77 Chicago White Sox (25-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-36) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in both Blue Jays runs in a 4-2 come-from-behind loss to the White Sox

After a solid win over the White Sox thanks to an excellent game from Jose Berrios and a 3-RBI day from Davis Schneider, the Blue Jays were looking for 2 straight wins and to notch their 13th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. Alan Roden was back in the lineup in LF after missing a couple of days after crashing into the CF wall. Addison Barger was also back in the lineup at tbe hot corner after missing a day with hip soreness. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 4th on a fielder's choice hit by Luis Robert Jr. that scored Chase Meidroth
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 5th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Myles Straw
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K 82 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Bichette singled scoring Alan Roden
• Adrian Houser pitching line: 6.1IP 7H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K90 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The White Sox tied it in the top of the 8th on a fielding error by Jeff Hoffman on a ball hit by Andrew Benintendi that scored Austin Slater 
• A batter later, Miguel Vargas doubled scoring Michael A. Taylor and Meidroth
• Grant Taylor pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: White Sox 4 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt fired 6 innings giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. Bassitt retired the first 9 batters he faced and 5 of the last 6 batters on the day. Was he removed a bit early? Perhaps, but Bassitt had serious issues in similar heat in Tamps Bay a couple of turns ago and you don't want to mess with heat stroke. Also, the bullpen should still be pretty fresh after Jose Berrios pitched 7.2 innings yesterday. First man out of the bullpen, Yariel Rodriguez, threw just 5 pitches to 1 batter yesterday as well.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 3 hits, 4 walks and a very unfortunate fielding error by closer Jeff Hoffman that would have ended the 8th with the Blue Jays maintaining a 1-run lead. Two of the runs were charged to Brandon Little, who took the loss. Yariel Rodriguez and Brayden Fisher both retired every batter they faced.
• Bo Bichette drove in both runs for the Blue Jays
• The Blue Jays were very sloppy on the base paths, twice making unfortunate choices at 3rd base that cost them runs, Bichette's decision to try and score from 3rd base in the 7th being the more egregious error. Hindsight is 20/20, but had the Blue Jays  put the hit and run on in the 9th, then the double play might not have happened, and possibly both runners could have been safe.
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week, starting in Cleveland on Tuesday. The Guardians took the series in Toronto at the beginning of May, outscoring the Blue Jays 13-12. Eric Lauer starts against Guardians lefty LT Allen

Game #77 Chicago White Sox (24-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-35)

 

Game #76 Chicago White Sox (24-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (41-35) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threww 7.2 strong innings in a 7-1 victory over the White Sox

After a brutal loss due to a failed bullpen day, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. Addison Barger was a late scratch due to some hip soreness. Nathan Lukes took his place in RF. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Bo Bichette led off with a solo bomb to dead center 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement singled scoring George Springer. White Sox RF Austin Slater was charged with a throwing error on the play
• Two batters later, Davis Schneider singled scoring Clement 
• Three batters later, Nathan Lukes singled home Schneider
• The White Sox got one back in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Miguel Vargas that scored Andrew Benintendi. Vladimir Guerrero Jr was charged with a throwing error on the play
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Guerrero Jr belted a solo jack to left-center 
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7.2IP 2H 1R (unearned) 3BB 5K 98 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Aaron Civale pitching line: 7IP 9H 5R (all earned) 1BB 2K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Schneider doubled scoring Springer and Clement
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 White Sox 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios fired 7.2 outstanding innings,  giving up one unearned run on 3 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. He entered the 7th inning having thrown just 72 pitches. That is efficient pitching! The Blue jays badly needed Berrios to pitch as far as he did with the uncertainty around Max Scherzer, who had his side session pushed back a day with his troublesome thumb barking at him, and a scheduled bullpen day midweek, and not to mention that Kevin Gausman has been struggling lately. Plus,  after Monday's off day, the Blue Jays play 16 straight days, barring rainouts, through July 9th. It's imperative that the Blue Jays starters do their part and pitch deep into games.
• The bullpen was perfect in the last 1.1 innings and Chad Green needed just 12 pitches to get through the 9th inning.
• Talk about taking advantage of an opportunity. Davis Schneider was a late addition to the lineup after Addison Barger was scratched with some hip soreness. Schneider promptly drove in 3 runs and scored one himself. Vlad and Bo Bichette, who has shown more power this season, went deep. Those late 3 insurance runs allowed the pitchers to pitch with a bit less pressure.
• Every Blue Jays stsarter except Andres Gimenez had a hit and all but Gimenez, Myles Straw and Alejandro Kirk either scored a run or drove in a run
• 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 13th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Adrian Houser

Game #75 Chicago White Sox (24-52) @ Toronto Blue Jays (40-35) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 7-1 loss to the White Sox

After dropping a game yesterday thanks to a rough start from Kevin Gausman and the comeback falling short, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win as they welcomed the White Sox to town. The Blue Jays won 5 of the 6 games in the season series last year, outscoring the White Sox 33-14. Nick Sandlin was activated from the 15-day IL and Nathan Lukes was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL. Lefty Justin Bruihl and OF Will Robertson were optioned back to AAA-ball. Spencer Turnbull got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Andrew Benintendi hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right
• The White Sox added a run in the top of the 2nd as Austin Slater singled scoring Lenyn Sosa
• Three batters later, Benintendi singled scoring Slater. Jose Rojas was thrown out at home on the play
• Grant Taylor pitching line: 1IP 9H 0R 0BB 1K 13 strikes (9 for strikes)
• The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 3rd as Luis Roberts Jr hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Miguel Vargas
• Four batters later, Josh Rojas doubled scoring Sosa and Slater
• Spencer Turnbull pitching line: 2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 2BB 2K 45 pitches (25 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Tyler Heineman
• Final score: White Sox 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Spencer Turnbull battled through 2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking 2. Turnbull gave up runs in all 3 innings, To me, Eric Lauer has shown he is the best pitcher to start bullpen games. With so much uncertainty around Max Scherzer and his sore thumb, the Blue Jays are essentially needing to find ways to get through games. I am not a big fan of the opener since it requires the other relievers to cover more innings. The Blue Jays intended to have Turnbull pitch deeper into tonight's game, but he couldn't get outs efficientlly.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 11 over the last 7 innings. All three runs were charged to Mason Fluharty. Brauden Fisher and Jeff Hoffman both retired every batter they faced.
• Offensively, Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run and he and Ernie Clement were the only Blue Jays to reach base multiple times
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid, even the series and avoid their 10th series loss of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against White Sox righty Aaron Civale

Game #55 - Toronto Blue Jays (26-29) @ Chicago White Sox (15-42) - game recap

Isiah Kiner-Falefa drove in a pair of runs in a 3-1 wni over the White Sox

 

After mustering enough offence for their 2nd straight win, 5th series win and 3rd season series win, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 1st series sweep. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and complete their first sweep? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Alek Manoah pitching line: 1.2IP 1H 0R 0BB 3K 24 pitches (15 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Bo Bichette singled scoring Davis Schneider
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring George Springer
• Chris Flexen pitching line:5IP 4H 2R (both earned) 5BB 6K 90 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th on a lineout by Kiner-Falefa that scored Springer 

• The White Sox got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Korey Lee whacked a solo jack just over the wall in left-center 
• Jordan Romano got the last 3 outs for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 White Sox 1

My Take:

• Oh boy, Alek Manoah left today's start after just 1.2 innings and 24 pitches with a right elbow injury. The timing of the injury isn't great since Manoah was just starting to pittch like he did his first year and a half in thre majors. Here's hoping the injury is minor and not Tommy John surgery that would end his season and also affect the start of next season.
• The bullpen did a great job with the home run given up by Jordan Romano the only real blemish. Yimi Garcia was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, the Blue Jays scraped together just enough offence to prevail on this day. IKF (2 RBI) and George Springer (2 runs scored) did the bulk of the damage. Bo Bichette also drove in a run
• Bold prediction: Vlad breaks Joe Dimaggio's hit streak record. His biggest streak this season is 8 games
• Trainer Jose Minstrel had a busy night tonight, Besides the Manoah injury, he was summoned in the bottom of the 7th when Alejandro Kirk had a pitch go off the thumb of his glove. Luckily Kirk was able to finish the game. Good thing the Blue Jays have an off-day tomorrow.
• The Blue Jays were 3-9 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next, After an off-day tommorow, the Blue Jays start a homestand against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Blue Jays swept the Pirates in the season series last year, outscoring the Pirates 22-3. Ace Jose Berrios starts for the Blue Jays Friday. The Pirates have not set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #53 - Toronto Blue Jays (24-29) @ Chicago White Sox (15-40) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run HR and scored twice in a 5-1 win over the White Sox

After a heartbreaking loss yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daniel Vogelbach served as DH. George Springer was back in RF after a full day off yesterday. IFK was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is today's game recap 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as George Springer whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as Bo Bichette hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Nick Nastrini pitching line: 5IP 3H 3R (all earned) 4BB 5K 82 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 5H 0R 0BB 7K 81 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The White Sox got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Gavin Sheets whacked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Davis Schneider smacked a 2-run blast just over the wall in left-center; also scoring Springer
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 White Sox 1

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 5 shutout innings, scattering 5 hits, walking nonr and striking out 7. Bassitt escaped a bases loaded jam in the 1st inning and then retired 5 in a row after that. You have to question the quick hook given the ineffectiveness of the bullpen this seaso, unless he was dealing with an illness or minor injury that the team didn't want to push with a long start
• The bullpen certainly made things  interesting, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. Swanson was responsible for the run against, giving up a solo HR in the 8th. 
• Offensively, George Springer (2-run HR, 2 runs scores), Davis Schneider (2-run HR) did the damage. Springer was the player who needed a big game.
• The Blue Jays were 0-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 2 games. Kevin Gausman starts againt White Sox righty Mike Clevinger

Game #47 - Chicago White Sox (15-34) @ Toronto Blue Jays (21-26) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 6 innings in a 5-0 shutout loss to the White Sox

After a convincing win over the White Sox thanks to the bat of Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking to make it three straight wins and notch their 5th series win of the season. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. IKF got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 3 straight wins and notch their 5th series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Nicky Lopez singled scoring Korey Lee
• The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Corey Julks singled scoring Andrew Vaughn and Eloy Jimenez
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 3BB 6K 101 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Garrett Crochet pitching line: 6IP 2H 0R 1BB 4K 85 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The White Sox added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Danny Mendick doubled scoring Paul DeJong and Dominic Fletchee
• Final score: White Sox 5 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 6 innings, giving up three runs (two earned) on five hits while walking three and striking out six. His command wasn't as sharp as it has been and he was working his way in and out of jams in 4 of the 6 innings he pitched. Kikuchi is still a strong possibility to rep the Blue Jays in the all-star game
• The bullpen gave up two critical insurance runs that put the game out of reach. Erik Swanson was the only reliever to retire every batter faced.
• A day after scoring 9 runs on 12 hits and 4 walks, the offense managed 2 hits and a walk against a team that has already been shut out 10 times and had shutout the opponent just twice. It was very telling to see Davis Schneider, Vlad and Danny Jansen all strike out looking in the 9th inning. If the pitch is going to be close, you have to foul it off to give yourself another pitch. In fact, 5 of the Bliue Jays last batters struck out. Danny Jansen, who drew a 2-out walk in the 6th inning, was the last Blue Jay to reach base
• Surely this game has to be rock bottom for the Blue Jays offence. Based on that presser over the weekend by GM Ross Atkins, they aren't planning to fire any of the coaches. The Blue Jays aren't bad enough to go on an extended losing streak that would force such a move. Maybe Joey Votto gets a chance to play for his hometown team soon.
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the homestand on a winning note and notch their 5th series win. Chtis Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Nick Nastrini

Game #46 - Chicago White Sox (14-34) @ Toronto Blue Jays (21-25) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen scored three times and drove in five runs in a 9-3 rout over the White Sox

After a statement win yesterday a day after GM Ross Atkins had a rare press availability, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins as they began a 3-game series against the White Sox. The Blue Jays swept the season series again the White Sox last year, outscoring the White Sox 35-11. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Justin Turner served as DH. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is today's game recap.

Games #87 and 88- Toronto Blue Jays (48-40) @ Chicago White Sox (37-52) - game recap (records reflect what they were after the 2nd game)

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a run and scored a run in the first game of today's double header and drove in a pair of runs in the second game of the double header as the Blue Jays swept the double header and season series with a 6-2 win in game 1 in 11 innings and a 5-4 come-from-behind win in the second game of today's double header

After yesterday's game was drained it,  the White Sox and Blue Jays played a double header to wrap up the season series. Jay Jackson was the 27th man for the double header. Jose Berrios started the 1st game and Yusei Kikuchi starts the 2nd grant. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate the 1st game and Danny Jansen caught game 2 of the double header. Bo Bichette was in the field the 1st game and served a DH in the 2nd game (Santiago Espinal took his spot at SS). Vlad was DH in the 1st game and in the field for the 2nd game (Brandon Belt was at 1B in game 1). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF game 1 and Daulton Varsho was in CF game 2. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to three games and compete their 5th series sweep of the season and 5th season series so of the season? Here is/are tonight's game recap(s).

Game Highlights (1st game):

• Lance Lynn pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 11K 102 pitches (67 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 6K 89 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 11th as George Springer singled scoring Cavan Biggio 
• A batter later, Bo Bichette singled scoring Santiago Espinal
• A batter after that, Daulton Varsho singled home Springer
• A batter later,  Vladimir Guerrero Jr singled scoring Bichette
• Three batters later, Biggio doubled home Guerrero Jr and Matt Chapman 
• The White Sox got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Oscar Colas doubled scoring Jake Burger
• A batter later, Andrew Vaughn singled home Colas 
• Yimi Garcia got the last three outs for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 White Sox 2 (11 innings)

My Take (1st game):

• For the first seven innings, it was a pitcher's duel with both Jose Berrios and Lance Lynn both allowing a hit and a walk. Berrios threw a few less pitches since he struck out half as many batters as Lynn (6). It was easily Berrios' best start of the season and perhaps in a Blue Jays uniform. In fact, after the 3rd inning, the only other base runner Berrios had to contend with reached because of a fielding error by Cavan Biggio and Alejandro Kirk threw that baserunner out at 2nd base in short order. Berrios ends his 1st half of the season with an 8-6 record with a 3:74 ERA in 18 starts
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over the last 4 innings. Trevor Richards pitched two strong innings,  giving up a hit and striking out 4. Yimi Garcia recorded the last 2 outs for his 1st save of the season. He has been better of late after being one of the Blue Jays worst pitchers overall for much of the 1st half
• It was nice to see the offense rally for 6 runs in the 11th inning, Biggio was in on three of the runs, scoring the first run and driving in the last two with a double. George Springer, Bo Bichette,  Vlad and Daulton Varsho each drive in one run on RBI singles. 
• Up next, the second game of the double header. Yusei Kikuchi starts against White Sox righty Jesse Scholtens

Game Highlights (2nd game):

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Whit Merrifield whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The White Sox tied it up in the bottom of the 3rd as Tim Anderson singled scoring Andrew Benintendi
• Two batters later, Eloy Jiminez smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right: also scoring Anderson
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Matt Chapman smacked a solo blast to left and into the White Sox bullpen
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring George Springer
• Jesse Scholtens pitching line: 4IP 11H 3R (all earned) 0BB 1K 73 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The White Sox retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning on a double play ball hit by Anderson that scored Sevy Zavala
• The Blue Jays tied it up again in the top of the 6th as Merrifield smacked a solo blast to left-center
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 5IP 8H 4R (all earned) 0BB 4K 78 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• Nate Pearson got the last 4 outs for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 White Sox 4

My Take (2nd game):

• It's certainly not the way Yusei Kikuchi wanted to end his 1st half. The Japanese lefty was touched up for 4 runs on 8 hits while walking none and striking out 4. There's no question that Kikuchi is having a vastly improved season after essentially pitching his way out of the rotation this time last year. In 2022, command was a big problem for Kikuchi and he struggled to pitch even 3 innings, forcing the bullpen to eat up a lot of innings. In 2022, Kikuchi threw 6 or more innings just twice in 20 starts. This year, Kikuchi has pitched into the 6th inning six times. He finishes his first half with 7-3 record and a  4.24 ERA in 18 starts. 
• The bullpen was solid, giving up just one hit over the last 4 innings. Tim Mayza, Jay Jackson and Nate Pearson each recorded 4 outs. Mayza struck out three of the batters he faced
• Offensively, the Blue Jays went yard for three of the runs and Vlad drove in a pair
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Detroit to wrap up the unofficial first half of the season. The Blue Jays took two of three from the Tigers 3 months ago, outscoring the Tigers 14-9. Alek Manoah starts against Tigers righty Alex Faedo

Game #86- Toronto Blue Jays (46-40) @ Chicago White Sox (37-50) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit an 8th inning 2-run HR in a 4-3 come-from-behind win over the White Sox

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week-long road trip that started tonight in Chicago. The Blue Jays swept the White Sox back in Toronto at the end of April, outscoring the White Sox 20-2. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was thesame as Sunday's game. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the week and road trip of with a win? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Whit Merrifield doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Brandon Belt
• The White Sox took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Luis Roberts Jr bashed a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Tim Anderson and Andrew Benintendi
• Lucas Giolito pitching line: 6IP 4H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 96 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Chris Bassittc pitching line: 6IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 83 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 8th as Guerrero Jr.  smashed a 2- run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Cavan Biggio 
• Jordan Romano pitched a perfect 9th for his 25th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 White Sox 3

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt pitched 6 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Bassitt will want the pitch that Luis Roberts Jr Drilled over the wall in left-center to give the White Sox the lead, but he pitched well enough to win if the Blue Jays had given him a bit more run support.Bassitt could be a candidate to replace a pitcher on the all star roster if there's an injury. 
• The bullpen was solid today,  giving up just one hit while striking out 4 over the last 3 innings. Jordan Romano struck out the side to end the game with a bang 
• Speaking of bangs, Vlad hit a rocket to the opposite field in right to give the z Blue Jays a late lead. Whit Merrifield earlier hit a 2-run RBI double that Vlad scored on. 
• Lack of attention to detail nearly cost the Blue Jays in the 8th when George Springer allowed Tim Anderson to get a triple because Springer just kind of sat on the wall in foul territory after the ball glanced off his glove. Thankfully Erik Swanson was able to pitch out of that jam 
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their second straight win and 17th series win of the season. Jose Berrios starts against White Sox righty Lance Lynn. 

Game #25 - Chicago White Sox (7-18) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-9) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 3-4 with 2 runs scored and 3RBI in an 8-0 shutout win over the White Sox

After a solid shutout win thanks to a 7-inning effort from Jose Berrios and a 3-runs scored, 4-RBI day from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their first series sweep of the season.  Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF.  Santiago Espinal returned to the lineup at 2B after missing several days after getting drilled in the right hand by a Gerrit Cole fastball. Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins and complete their first series sweep of the season?  Here is today's game recap. 

Game #24 - Chicago White Sox (7-17) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-9) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen was 3-4 with 3 runs scored and 4RBI in a 7-0 shutout win over the White Sox

After a solid win over the White sox Thanks to Cavan Biggio's go-ahead three run home run, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their fifth series win of the season. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup in RF After the complete day off yesterday (he did enter the game last night in the 7th inning pinch-hitting for Cavan Biggio). Vladimir Guerrero Jr was back in the field after the half day off yesterday as DH. Brandon belt served as DH today. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 5th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #23 - Chicago White Sox (7-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (14-9) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio hit a go-ahead 3-run HR in a 5-2 come-from behind win over the White Sox.

After ending the road trip on a winning note, thus ending the Yankees streak of series wins, the Blue Jays returned home for a week-long homestand starting tonight against the White Sox. Last season, the Blue Jays won the season series against the White Sox 4-2, outscoring the southsiders 43-31. Adam Cimber, who strained his right rhomboid muscle, was placed on the 15-day IL and Nate Pearson was recalled from AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  George Springer got the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #69- Toronto Blue Jays (39-30) @ Chicago White Sox (33-34) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a grand slam in a 9-5 victory over the White Sox. Today's win secures the season series win for the Blue Jays even though the White Sox took two of three from the Blue Jays this week because the Blue Jays swept the White Sox in Toronto May 30-June 1

After being Edged by the White Sox after multiple blow saves by normally steady relievers, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid a series sweep. Ross Stripling got the start with Gabriel Moreno behind the plate. George Springer got the full day off with Raimel Tapia in CF. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays avoid the sweep and clinch the season series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #67- Toronto Blue Jays (38-29) @ Chicago White Sox (32-33) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in a pair and scored twice in an 8-7 loss to the White Sox

After a huge come from behind win over the Bronx Bombers yesterday, the Blue Jays hit the road for a week, starting tonight in the South side of Chicago against the White Sox, who the Blue Jays swept in Toronto May 31-June second, outscoring the south siders 21-11. A win tonight would also give the Blue Jays the season series win over the White Sox. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Gabriel Moreno behind the plate. Teo was back in the field after DH'ing yesteday, Vlad got the half day off as DH today with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. had the full day off with Raimel Tapia in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row and 4 straight against the White Sox? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The White Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Andrew Vaughn doubled scoring Tim Anderson
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 2nd as Raimel Tapia whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the White Sox bullpen; also scoring Teoscar Hernandez
• The White Sox retook the lead in the bttom half of the inning as Josh Harrison belted a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Jake Burger
• The White Sox added a run in the botttom of the 3rd as Luis Roberts smacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Vaughn
• The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Vaughn drilled a solo bomb to dead center 
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5IP 9H 6R (all earned) 1BB 1K 72 pitches (51 for strikes)
• The White Sox added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a ground out by Reese McGuire that scored Jose Abreu
• A batter later, Adam Engel singled home AJ Pollock
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Hernandez doubled scoring Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Hernandez scored on a ground out by Santiago Espinal
• Lamce Lynn pitching line: 5IP 4H 5R (3 earned) 2BB 5K 99 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 9th as Cavan Biggio bashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Gabriel Moreno
• Joe Kelly pitched the 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: White Sox 8 Blue Jays 7

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 4 innings, giving up 6 runs on 9 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. The big problem for Berrios tonight was that he was not missing bats. The White Sox took him yard 3 times for 5 runs. Andrew Vaughn proved to be the biggest thorn in Berrios' side, driving in a trio of runs and scoring twice. 
• The White Sox added two more runs against David Phelps, which proved to be the difference in the game. After allowing the White Sox two more hits in the 6th inning, Trent Thornton and Matt Gage combine to retire the last 7 Chicago batters in order
• The Blue Jays faced an all-too familiar situation. Yesterday, the Blue Jays were down five runs after 5 innings yesterday, before mounting a huge comeback in front of a boisterous father's day crowd at the Roger's Centre 24 hrs ago. Tonight, they found themselves down 6 runs after five innings. Alas, the comeback would fall a run short on this night. Teo doubled home a pair in the 6th and scored himself a couple of batters later. Cavan Biggio hit a 2-run jack in the 9th inning to bring the Blue Jays within a run with 2 outs to play with. Unfortunately, the next 2 batters, George Springer and Bo Bichette. would both ground out to White Sox 2B Josh Harrison to end the game. With the Yankees winning in TB, The Blue Jays are back to being 12 games behind NY for the AL East title.
• Every Blue Jays batter except Santiago Espinal and Matt Chapman reached base at least once
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series. Kevin Gausman starts against White Sox righty Dylan Cease

Game #50- Chicago White Sox (23-26) @ Toronto Blue Jays (30-20) - game recap

 

Santiago Espinal drove in 3 runs in an 8-3 victory over the White Sox to extend the winning streak to 8 games. It was the second straight series sweep after starting the season 0-4 in games which could clinch a series sweep

After a solid 7th straight win on the strength of a 3-run shot from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were looking for their second straight series sweep and 8th straight win overall. Hyun-Jin Ryu is headed to the 10-day IL with an inflamed forearm. The Blue Jays really need to get the injury examined for possible UCL damage. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer missed his second straight game with a non-COVID illness. Bradley Zimmer took his place in CF. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the complete day off with Raimel Tapia in LF. Vlad had the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B.  Could the Blue Jays make it two straight series sweeps and 8 straight wins overall? Here is today's game recap.

Game #49- Chicago White Sox (23-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-20) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a 3-run HR in a 7-3 come-from-behind win over the White Sox

After eking out their 6th straight win on the strength of a pair of 2-run HR from Alejandro Kirk and 5 solid innings from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to make it a season-high 7 straight wins and 10 series wins. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with his personal catcher Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer got the full day off with Raimel Tapia in CF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it seven straight wins and 10 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #48- Chicago White Sox (23-24) @ Toronto Blue Jays (28-20) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk had a pair of 2-run HR in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the White Sox

After a successful road trip that saw the Blue Jays win 5 of 6, including their first series sweep of the season against a tough Angels squad, the Blue Jays opened the week and home stand with a trio of games against the Chicago White Sox. Last season, the White Sox won 4 of 7 games in the season series and outscored the Blue Jays 30-23. Ryan Borucki was DFA'd after a couple of rough outings. Trent Thornton was recalled in his place. Kevin Gausman got the start tonight with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field at 1B after a complete day off yesterday. Teo was also back in RF after having Sunday off. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it six straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.