Game #80 Toronto Blue Jays (43-37) @ Cleveland Guardians (40-39) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 8 shutout innings in a 6-0 shutout win over the Guardians

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After a walk-off loss in the 10th inning last night, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 13th series win of the season and earn the season series split. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. George Springer had the complete day off with Jonatan Clase in LF, Myles Straw in CF and Nathan Lukes in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays notch their 13th series win of the season and earn the season series split? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Jonatan Clase and Tyler Heineman
• A batter later, Myles Straw scored on a missed catch error charged to Guardians 1B Kyle Manzardo on a bad pickoff attempt by Guardians SP Tanner Bibee
• Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left the game prior to the bottom of the 4th after getting drilled in the forearm by a pitch in the top of the 3rd
• Tanner Bibee pitching line: 6IP 3H 3R (2 earned) 0BB 7K 96 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the top of the 9th as Alejandro Kirk singled Addison Barger, Ernie Clement and Clase. Guardians LF Steven Kwan was charged with a throwing error on the play.
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 2H 0R 1BB 6K 104 pitches (77 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Guardians 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 8 shutout innings, allowing 2 hitsm walking 1 and striking out 6. He had out streaks of 6, 7 and 8 batters. No one advanced past 2nd base. This start is really going to help the bullpen, which has been pitching a lot of innings due to injury and the ineffectiveness of Bowden Frances
• Chad Green pitched a scoreless inning, walking a batter and managing to keep the ball in the ball park
• I want to address the hit batters today. Kevin Gausman hit Jose Ramirez with a pitch after Vladdy left the game after getting hit by a pich himself in the top of thr 3rd. This whole thing might have been prevented if home plate umpire Tom Hanahan had ejected Tanner Bibee after he drilled Vlad. Accident or not, the league needs to protect its star players. It's doubtful the league is going to step in with any suspensions or fines, but they should start disciplining more often.
• Alejandro Kirk (3-run single; was credited with 2RBI) and Nathan Lukes (2-run RBI single) did the damage offensively
• The Blue Jays were 2-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays continue the road trip in Boston. The Blue Jays have won 5 of the first 7 games in the season series, outscoring the Red Sox 30-26. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Red Sox righty Brayan Bello.

Game #80 Toronto Tempo (42-37) @ Cleveland Rockers (40-38)

 

Game #79 Toronto Blue Jays (42-37) @ Cleveland Guardians (40-38) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run single in a 5-4 extra innings loss to the Guardians

After a big win thanks to a 10- run, 14-hit output, The Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and were looking to notch their 13th series win of the season. The Blue Jays acquired righty Robinson Pina from the Marlins for minor league righty Colby Martin. Max Scherzer as activated from the 15 day witand got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Spencer Turnbull was DFA'd. Alan Roden was in LF, Nathan Lukes was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 13th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jose ramirez singled scoring Steven Kwan
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Guardians retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Gabriel Arias doubled scoring Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 4BB 83 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 6th as George Springer singled scoring Addison Barger and Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later,  Alejandro Kirk scored on a sac fly by Ernie Clement 
• Gavin Williams pitching line: 5H 4R (3 earned) 3BB 3K 85 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Guardians tied it in the bottom of the 7th as Lane Thomas belted a solo jack to left
• The Guardians walked it off in the bottom of the 10th as Ramirez singled home Angel Martinez
• Final score: Guardians 5 Blue Jays 4 (10 innings)

My Take:

• Max Scherzer gave the Blue Jays everything they could have hoped for in his first start back since leaving his first regular season start after three innings when a troublesome thumb started affecting his right lat. He was able to get through 5 innings and over 80 pitches.  There is really only 1 or 2 pitches he'll want back.  His timing was a bit off and he ended up walking a batter because he got into the set position before the batter was ready. The big test will be how he is feeling the next day or two.  Hopefully he remains healthy and can be that fourth starter the Blue Jays are lacking at the moment
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 4 innings. For the second night in a row, Mason Fluharty struggled. Last night, he walked 2 batters and retired just one batter. Tonight, he couldn't record an out, this time walking the first 2 batters he faced and giving up a single to the third and final batter. Time to DFA him and Chad Green too
• The offence tonight was led by George Springer (2RBI), Vlad (2 runs scored, solo HR) and Ernie Clement (sac fly)
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the rubber match where the Blue Jays will try to notch their 13th series win and earn the season series split. Kevin Gausman starts against Guardians righty Tanner Bibee

Game #79 Argos (42-36) @ Browns (39-38)

 

Game #78 Toronto Blue Jays (42-36) @ Cleveland Guardians (39-38) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a grand slam and scored three times in a 10-6 win over the Guardians

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a week-long road trip that began in Cleveland tonight. The Guardians won the series in Toronto back at the beginning of May, outscoring the Blue Jays 13-12. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday (George Springer served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF and Jonatan Clase was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the week and road trip with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• Two batters later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a fielding error by Guardians RF Johnathan Rodriguez on a ball hit by Myles Straw that scored George Springer 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Kirk singled scoring Clement
• LT Allen pitching line: 5.2IP 8H 4R (3 earned) 2BB 4K 104 pitches (70 for strikes)
• The Gaurdians got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Carlos Santana whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5.1IP 5H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 86 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Jonatan Clase singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Springer
• The Guardians got three back in the bottom half of the inning as Lane Thomas belted a 3-run jack to left; also scoring Rodriguez and Steven Kwan
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the top of the 8th as Springer hammered a grand slam to left-center; also scoring Clement, Guerrero Jr. and Kirk
• The Guardians got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Nolan Jones that scored Santana\
• The Gaurdians got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Kyle Manzandro whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left
• Final score: Blue Jays 10 Guardians 6

My Take:

• Eric Lauer threw 5.1 solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. To me, he has earned the right to stay in the rotation the rest of the season. The Blue Jays need a  starter that can pitch into the 6th inning or later consistently. They can't keep going back to the well and having bullpen days every few days. Who knows how much Max Scherzer will be able to contribute tomorrow and the remainder of the season? It's not great that they had to push back a side session after he experienced more soreness than expected on the weekend. Bowden Francis has been having a rough season and needs to get healthy before he'll pitch again. Spencer Turnbull looked shaky in his last start and none of the other relievers are built up to pitch more than a couple of innings max. Alek Manoah won't be ready to pitch until August if all goes well and the same goes for Rickey Tiederman, 
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 3 hits and 4 walks over the last 3.1innings. Chad Green continues to struggle with keeping the ball in the ballpark. He gave up his 10th home run of the season. Lefty Mason Fluharty has just been struggling lately. He walked 2 of the 3 batters he faced and both those runners came around to score. Braydon Fisher was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• The offence came through in a big way, scoring 10 runs on 14 hits, 5 walks and a fielding error. George Springer (grand slam, 3 runs scored), Ernie Clement (3 runs scored, RBI single), Jonatan Clase (2-run double), Alejandro Kirk (2RBI, run scored), and Vlad (2 runs scored) led the way.
• The Blue Jays were 4-14 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. Max Scherzer starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams

Game #34 - Cleveland Guardians (20-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-18) - game recap

 

Andres Gimenez drove in a pair of runs and scored a run in a losing effort as the Guardians hung on to edge the Blue Jays 5-4

After a late innings loss thanks to the bullpen imploding and blowing the save, the Blue Jays were looking to end the home stand with a win and notch their 5th series win of the season. Daulton Varsho was a late scratch with lower back tightness. Alan Roden was in LF and Nathank Lukes was in CF. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.. Could the Blue Jays end the home stand with a win and notch their 5th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd on a fielder's choice hit by Steven Kwan that scored Gabriel Arias
• The Guardians added a run in the top of the 4th as Daniel Schneemann doubled scoring Kyle Manzardo
• A batter later,  Arias singled home Schneemann and Carlos Santana
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Natha Lukes doubled scoring Addison Barger 
• A batter later Andres Gimenez singled scoring Alan Roden and Lukes
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 4.1IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 2K 79 pitches (47 for strikes)
• Tanner Bibee pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 3K 86 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Guardians added a run in the top of the 9th on a bases loaded walk to Santana that forced in Angel Martinez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Vladimir hurting Jr. that scored Gimenez
• Emmanuel Clase got the last 3 outs for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Bowden Francis battled through 4.1 innings,  giving up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. He started out well with 2 clean innings to start the game. However,  the Guardians figured him out in the 3rd and 4th innings where he gave up 4 runs on 5 hits and a walk. It was a good move but manager John Schneider to remove him from the game after he gave up a one out single in the 5th inning before a third straight inning snowballed on him. To me,  he earned another start,  but with the a Blue Jays signing Spencer Turnbull and Jose Urias, his spot in the rotation may be perilous. Having two rotation spots where you can't rely on the starter to go deep into the game puts pressure on the remaining three (Jose Berrios, Chris Bassitt and Kevin Gausman) to have a good start with a minimum of 6 innings to save the bullpen a few outs. 
• The effects of overusing the bullpen is starting to show. Yariel Rodriguez and Brandon little, who threw twice as many balls as strikes and walked in a crucial insurance run that turned out to be the difference in the game, were not at their bests. Another thing to watch is injuries. As the bullpen struggles to get outs, the Blue Jays will be forced to use a reliever they might have given a day off and that player might get hurt.
• The Blue Jays did all their damage in the 4th innning to negate the 3 runs Francis gave up in the top half of the inning. The Blue Jays had a chance to take the lead in the 8th inning, but Ernie Clement failed on a 3rd strike bunt attempt and Nathan Lukes and Myles Straw both popped out. George Springer did all he could to extend the game in the 9th but struck out swinging on the 7th pitch of the at-bat. 
• The Blue Jays were 4-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day, the Blue Jays open their first west coast swing against the Angels. The Blue Jays swept the season series last year, outscoring the Angels 40-15. Lefty Tyler Anderson will start for the Angels. The Blue Jays haven't set the rotation for the series yet.

Game #33 - Cleveland Guardians (19-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-17) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman pitched 6 shutout innings in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 5-3 

After a third straight comeback win, the Blue Jays wer looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 5th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was back in CF after the complete day off yesterday. George Springer was back in RF after the half day off as DH yesterday (Anthony Santander served as DH today). Nathan Lukes got the start in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 5th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as  Bo Bichette led off with a solo blast to left-center on the first pitch he saw 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd on a bases loaded walk to Nathan Lukes that forced in Anthony Santander 
• Gavin Williams pitching line: 4IP 7H 2R (both earned) 5BB 9K 100 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a sac fly by Tyler Heineman that scored Ernie Clement
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 1H 0R 1BB 9K 94 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Guardians took the lead in the top of the 9th as Daniel Scheemann drilled a grand slam to right; also scoring Bo Naylor, Gabriel Arias and Steven Kwan 
• Emmanuel Clase pitched a perfect 9th for his 6th save of the season.
• Final score: Gaurdians 5 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• In his 100th career start in a Blue Jay's uniform,  Kevin Gausman threw 6 shutout innings, giving up 1 hit,  walking 1 and striking out 9. You know Gausman has everything working when he is racking up the strikeouts. He retired the last 10 batters he faced.
• The bullpen was lit up for 5 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks. The long ball killed the Blue Jays again. Daniel Schneemann did the damage with a solo HR in the 8th and a grand slam in the 9th. It was clear right away that Yimi Garcia didn't have it today. 
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got a rare HR from Bo Bichette, who went almost an entire calendar year between home runs. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the home stand with a win and notch their 5th series win of the season. Bowden Francis starts against Guardians righty Tanner Bibee

Game #32 - Cleveland Guardians (18-14) @ Toronto Blue Jays (16-16) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit a clutch 2-run single to lift the Blue Jays to a 5-3 win over thr Guardiians

After their second straight comeback win over the Bosox thanks to a huge 3-run 8th inning Vladdy HR, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games as they welcomed the Cleveland Guardians, who won the season series last season, outscoring the Blue Jays 28-22, to town for a weekend series. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daulton Varsho got the complete day off and George Springer got the half day off as DH with Anthony Santander in LF, Myles Straw in CF, and Addison Barger in RF.  Andres Gimenez was back in the lineup after the complete day off yesterday and Ernie Clement was back at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Carlos Santana whacked a solo blast just fair down the right field line
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 2nd as Alejandrio Kirk singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr, and Anthony Santander. Guardians LF Steven Kwan was charged with a fielding error on the play
• The Guardians tied it in the top of the 3rd Bo Naylor hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 5th as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to straightaway center
• The Guardians tied it in the top of the 6th as Santana singled scoring Daniel Schneemann
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5.1IP 7H 3R (all earned) 0BB 4K 98 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Logan Allen pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 4K 104 pitches (66 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Daulron Varsho and Springer
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a scoreless 9th for his 7th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Guardans 3

My Take:

•  Chris Bassitt battled through 5.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 7 hits while walking none and striking out 4. Home runs continue to be a problem for Blue Jays pitchers. Bassitt gave up 2 solo shots today. It also wasn't the most efficient start, needing almost 100 pitches to get 16 outs. He ended up with a no-decision since he left with the game tied
• The bullpen held the Guardians to 2 hits, a hit batter and a walk while striking out 2 over the last 3.2 innings
• The bats cam up clutch a few times, including a huge 2-run single from Lukes. Alejandro Kirk gave the Blue Jays their first lead of the game with his own 2-run single
• The Blue Jays were 3-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 4th straight win and 5th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams

Game #76 - Toronto Blue Jays (35-42) @ Cleveland Guardians (49-26) - game recap

 

Spencer Horwitz hit a pair of solo home runs and scored three times in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 6-5

After another troubling loss thanks to ace Jose Berrios' inability to keep the ball in the ballpark, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 5-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd consecutive series. Orlevius Martinez was placed on the restricted list after being suspended for 80 days for using performance-enhancing drugs. Outfielder Steward Berroa was recalled from AAA-ball. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field at 1B after the half day off as DH yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH today). Davis Schneider got the start in LF with Daulton Varsho out with a lower back injury. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Spencer Horwitz got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 5-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd straight series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guererro Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Spencer Horwitz
• The Guardians got one back in the bottom half of the inning as David Fry singled scoring Bo Naylor
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd as Horwitz belted a solo bomb off the right foul pole
• The Guardians got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Daniel Schneemann singled scoting Ramirez
• A batter later, Josh Naylor was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Johnathan Rodriguez
• A batter after that, Bo Naylor scored on a double play ball hit by Brayan Rocchio
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 2IP 8H 4R (all earned) 1BB 3K 63 pitches (40 for strikes)
• Triston McKenzie pitching line: 3IP 3H 3R (all earned) 4BB 6K 74 pitches (41 for strikes)
• The Guardians added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Steven Kwan whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• Three batters later, Josh Naylor belted a solo jack to right-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Horwitz hammered a solo bomb to dead center 
• Four batters later, Addison Barger singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Emmanuel Clase threw a scoreless 9th for his 24th save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 6 Blue Jays 5

My Take:

• It was a short game for Yusei Kikuchi with a rain delay ending his day, which likely would have only gone an inning or 2 more with 63 pitches thrown and no outs in the 3rd inning. He gave up 4 runs on 8 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3. He just wasn't able to locate his pitches today and it cost him. His next 2 starts, against the Yankees and Astros won't be any easier either 
• The bullpen gave up a further 2 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 6 innings. Trevor Richards was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• The Blue Jays offence is starting to turn into an all-or-nothing entity. The power is starting to come back, but they cannot drive in a baserunner if their lives depended on it. Spencer Horwitz contributed a pair of dingers and Vladdy got things started with a bomb. When it mattered most, the Blue Jays failed and that's why they lost.
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position and 1-15 with runners in scoring position all weekend.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Boston looking to snap the 6-game skid and exact revenge on the Red Sox, who swept the Blue Jays in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-9. Chris Bassitt gets the start against Red Sox righty Tanner Houck.

Game #75 - Toronto Blue Jays (35-41) @ Cleveland Guardians (48-26) - game recap

 

Isiah Kiner-Falefa hit a pair of solo HR in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 6-3

After an ugly loss yesterday after a brutal 7-run inning from the Guardians, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4 game skid and avoid their 12th series loss of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid their 12th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as avis Schneider whaked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center 
• The Guardians took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Naylor hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Will Brennan
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 3rd as Isiah Kiner-Falefa drilled a solo jack to left-center
• The Guardians retook the lead in the bottomm half of the inning as Jose Ramirez belted a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Andres Gimenez
• The Guardians added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Steven Kwan hammered a solo bomb to right
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 5IP 6H 5R (all earned) 1BB 3K 86 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Ben Lively pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 2BB 4K 82 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Guardians added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Daniel Schneemann drilled a solo bomb to right-center 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Kiner-Falefa whacked a solo blast to left
• Daulton Varsho was injured in the top of the 9th as he was trying to start running after hitting a ground ball. He was grabbing his lower back. Likely an IL-stint incoming
• Emmanuel Clase pitched a perfect 9th for his 23rd save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 6 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• It was a rough start for Jose Berrios, who gave up 5 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 3 over 5 innings. He was taken deep 3 times for 5 runs and twice he was scored on the same inning the Blue Jays scored. The way the offense is, the team needs the pitchers to be lights out most games and tonight Berrios wasn't up to the task.
• Genesis Cabrera gave up a run on 2 hits in the 6th. Brendon Little and Nate Pearson both retired every batter they faced. It will be closer by committee indefiniely with Jordan Romano experiencing more elbow pain in long toss. He'll inevitably be shut down from throwing and could be looking at another MRI. Here's hoping it's not the same end result as Alek Manoah
• All nine runs by both teams were scored on home runs. 
• It's pretty hard to win ball games when you produce four bases runners. solo home runs aren't going to cut it 
• It's time to hang up the home run jacket for good. Just makes the team look like a bunch of fools when they are flaunting with it in the dugout after a home run when they are losing
• Here's hoping the Daulton Varsho injury isn't serious. Can we get Cavan Biggio back to play RF?
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 5 game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd consecutive series. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Guardians righty Tristan McKenzie

Game #74 - Toronto Blue Jays (35-40) @ Cleveland Guardians (47-26) - game recap

 

Tim Mayza threw 2 perfect innings in a 7-1 loss to the Guardians 

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays hit the road for a rematch against the Guardians, who they faced a week ago in Toronto. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 last week, outscoring the Guardians 13-9. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Orlevis Martinez made his big league debut at 2B. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd on a bases loaded walk to Johnathan Rodriguez that forced in Josh Naylor
• Two batters later, Austin Hedges singled scoring Tyler Freeman and Will Brennan
• A batter later, Steven Kwan Rodriguez scored on a fielder's choice hit by Steve
• Two batters later, Jose Ramirez singled scoring Kwan
• A batter later, Naylor singled scoring Andres Gimenez and Ramirez
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 1.1IP 2H 5R (4 earned) 3BB 1K 52 pitches (32 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to left
• Carlos Carrasco pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 0BB 7K 74 pitches (43 for strikes)
• Final score: Guardians 7 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Yariel Rodriguez was lit up for 5 runs (4 earned) on 2 hits while walking 3 and striking out 1 over 1.1 innings. All the damage was done in the 2nd inning. Rodriguez is a big unknown being a free agent signing from Cuba with zero prior MLB experience. He's also already had an injury, so the Blue Jays are going to be even more cautious with any innings limit. The 5th starters spot may end up being a prototyical bullpen game for the remainder of the season.
• The bullpen gave up a further 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over 6.2 innings. All but one hit was charged to Bowden Francis, who came into the game with two inherited runners, one scored and he gave up a further three runners. On the plus side, once that horrendous inning ended, the bullpen threw 6 shutout innings. Tim Mayza had 2 shutout innings and retired every batter he faced.
• The offence did nothing other than a meaningless solo shot in the 4th inning. Fitting the game ended on a double play ball off the bat of George Springer. Perhaps Ernie Clement should have pinch hit there?
• Good on Orlevius Martinez getting his first career hit out of the way
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• The home run jacket should become the player of the game jacket - would be more meaningful and give players a reason to win.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and even the series. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Guardians righty Ben Lively 

Game #71 - Cleveland Guardians (44-25) @ Toronto Blue Jays (35-36) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a grand slam as the Blue Jays hung on to edge the Guardians 7-6

After a solid shutout win yesterday after a stellar effort by the bullpen and a pair of runs and an RBI from George Springer, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and 9th series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette remained out of the lineup as he continues to nurse a cranky calf muscle. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Addison Barger in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at the hot corner. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and 9 series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement bashed a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Addison Barger, who stole his first career base and scored his first career run
• The Guardians got one back in the top of the 5th as Steven Kwan singled scoring Daniel Schneeman
• A batter later, Brayan Rocchio scored on a double play ball hit by Tyler Freeman
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho belted a grand slam to right-center; also scoring Spencer Horwitz, Davis Schneider and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Three batters later, Barger singled home George Springer
• Ben Lively pitching line: 4IP 6H 4R (all earned) 3BB 4K 88 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Guardians got a pair back in the top of the 6th as Schneeman whacked a 2-run jack to the opposite field in left and into the Guardians bullpen; slso scoring Will Brennan
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 8H 4R (all earned) 0BB 1K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Guardians got a pair back in the top of the 9th as Rocchio belted a 2-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Schneeman
• Yimi Garcia left with an injury with one out to get
• Nate Pearson got the final out for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Guardians 6

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits while walking none and striking out 1. The first two batters he faced reached base, but Berrios pitched out of it and retired 11 in a row before allowing a 2-out single in the 4th. Berrios was efficient through the 1st 4 innings, needing just 40 pitches. He needed 25 pitches to get out of the 5th inning and gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and a hit batter. He gave up two more runs in the 6th to take away the quality start. Overall decent start for the Blue Jays ace.
• The bullpen nearly blew the save, with defacto closer Yimi Garcia giving up a pair of runs in the 9th followed by singles to put runners on the corners with 2 outs before throwing the ball. The bigger concern was he got hurt on the next pitch. The Blue Jays are already shorthanded with Jordan Romano on the 15-day IL with his own elbow injury. Even more concerning, the Blue Jays are playing a ton of baseball with 26 straight games over the next 28, including 17 straight after Thursday's off-day/travel day. Brandon Little has leapfrogged Tim Mayza as the top lefty in the bullpen. After a rocky start, Litlle has settled in nicely and been effective against both righties and lefties. He and Pearson were the only relievers to retire every batter they faced.
• The offence came through in a big way in the 5th inning with a 5-run output, highlighted by a Daulton Varsho grand slam. Addison Barger also contributed with his 2nd career RBI, first career stolen base and first career run scored.
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once. 
• Perplexing stat of the day: the Blue Jays did not score in the 1st inning (despite loading the bases with none out) and scored twice in the 2nd inning. I wonder if it would change the 1st inning fortunes if the Blue Jays swapped the 1-3 hitters and the 4-6 hitters. Maybe then you'd see some runs in the 1st inning.
• The Blue Jays were 5-16 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 3 games as they begin their first series against the Red Sox, who edged the Blue Jays in the season series last year 7-6 with the Blue Jays outscoring the Red Sox 64-62. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Red Sox righty Nick Pivetta.

Game #70 - Cleveland Guardians (44-24) @ Toronto Blue Jays (34-36) - game recap

 

George Springer scored twice and drove in a run in a 5-0 shutout win over the Guardians

After another loss where the pitching was solid, but not perfect and the inept offence could only manage 3 hits by 2 players, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 11th series loss of the season. It was a bullpen day with Trevor Richards getting the start and Danny Jansen behind the plate. Bo Bichette, who was nursing a cranky calf muscle, got the complete day off with IKF at SS. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Spencer Horwitz got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 11th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as George Springer sinled scoring Justin Turner
• A batter later, Addison Barger singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Three batters later, Spencer Horwitz singled home Springer
• Trevor Richards pitching line: 2.1IP 1H 0R 0BB 1K 31 pitches (20 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th on a double play ball hit by Varsho that plated Danny Jansen
• Carlos Carrasco pitching line: 5IP 6H 5R (all earned) 2BB 2K 81 pitches (52 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Guardians 0

My Take:

• Trevor Richards did his part in the bullpen day, getting seven outs,, allowing a hit, walking none and striking out 1, on an efficient 31 pitches. Hopefully this is the last time the Blue Jays need a  bullpen day with Yuriel Rodriguez potentially set to return next week after a final rehab start tomorrow, which would line him up to start Friday in Cleveland.
• The rest of the bullpen threw 6.2 shutout innings, scattering 7 hits, walking 1 and striking out 3. Zack Pop was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced.
• The offence came through, though not in the 1st inning, with a 3-run rally in the 2nd inning that included Addison Barger with his first career RBI. George Springer also knocked in a run and scored twice
• The Blue Jays were 4-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for 2 stright wins and try for their 9th series win. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Guardians righty Ben Lively

Game #69 - Cleveland Guardians (44-23) @ Toronto Blue Jays (33-36) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement had a pair of hits and scored the Blue Jays only run in a 3-1 loss to the Guardians

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays returned home for a week as they begin a 2-week stretch with the rematch with the opponent a week apart. Last season, the Guardians won the season series 4-3 with both teams scoring 24 runs each. Daniel Vogelbach was DFA'd. Vogelbach batted .186 with 1HR and 8 RBI over 31 games and 70AB this season. Addison Barger was recalled from AAA-ball in his place. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the lineup and at 1B after a complete day off Wednesday. Justin Turner served as DH. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Daniel Schneemann doubled scoring Will Brennan
• The Guardians added a run in the top of the 4th as Brennan smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Guardians added a run in the top of the 5th as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Brayan Rocchio
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Davis Schneider singled home Ernie Clement
• JT Allen pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 3K 84 pitches (47 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.1IP 8H 3R (all earned) 0BB 6K 99 pitches (65 fo-r strikes)
• Emmanuel Clase pitched a perfect 9th for his 21st save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5.1 innings, giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking none and striking out 6. It was not his most efficient outing, needing 99 pitches for 16 outs. Gausman has not looked like he did his first 2 seasons in Toronto. Whether that is just him regressing to the mean or whether he is battling through an injury. Gausman did miss part of spring training and the first week of the regular season after he did not bounce back after a side session early in spring training. Here's hoping the issue is minor, if physical, or just mechanical.
• The bullpen threw 3.2 shutout innings, allowing just one hit, walking none and striking out 1. Lefty Brendon Little has settled in nicely into a middle relief role and has worked multiple innings for the Blue Jays, a huge plus with the team basically facing a bullpen day every 5th day until Yuriel Rodriguez is ready to slide into the 5th starter's role
• And then there's the offence, which continues to struggle to manufacture anything. Tonight, Davis Schneider drove in Ernie Clement in the 5th inning with an RBI single. Now that veterans Cavan Biggio and Daniel Vogelbach are gone, the Blue Jays will be relying on the next generation of prospects (Schneider, Barger, Clement and Spencer Horwitz to carry the team offensively. Look for them to be playing most days and to be in key parts of the lineup, or the top half of the order. If the team is out of it, you could well see some of the soon to be expiring contracts, such as Danny Jansen, Yusei Kikuchi, and others moved at the deadline. Heck, if they get the right trade offer, Bo Bichette and Vlad could be on the move too. If the team keeps puttering along offensively and losing more than they win, the lineup you saw tonight will look bery different than the one say 2 months from now
• Speaking of the next gen. of players, Shneider and Clement were a combined 0-22. Vlad, IKF, George Springer and Bo Bichette each drew a walk. It's puzzling and disturbing how far this offence has regressed in the last couple of seasons, especially Bo and Vlad. In 2021, Vlad hit .311 with 48HR, 111RBI and finished 2nd in MVP voting. This season, he has managed just 7HR and 30RBI. Bichette led the AL in hits in both 2021 and 2022 and was the Blue Jays most consistent hitter up until this season, where his average is down to .240 with 4HR and 28 RBI. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series and avoid their 11th series loss of the season. It will be a bullpen day tomorrow with one of Bowden Francis or Trevor Richards likely serving as the opener. The Guardians will counter with righty Carlos Carrasco

Game #131 - Cleveland Guardians (62-69) @ Toronto Blue Jays (71-60) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. became the first Blue Jay to reach 20 HR this season in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 10-7 in 11 innings

After a solid win yesterday thanks to rookie phenom Davis Schneider leading the charge offensively and a solid start from Hyun-Jin Ryu, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win, 24th series win and 14th season series win of the season. Erik Swanson was placed on the 15-day IL with thoracic spine inflammation and Jay Jackson was recalled from AAA- ball.  Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Davis Schneider was in LF and Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and botch their 24th series win and 14th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left; also scoring Brandon Belt. Guerrero Jr is the first Blue Jay to crack the 20HR plateau this season. 
• The Guardians tied the game in the top of the 3rd as Jose Ramirez bashed a 2-run run blast to left; also scoring Steven Kwan
• The Guardians retook the lead in the top of the 4th as Tyler Freeman singled scoring Kole Calhoun 
• Two batters later, Myles Straw singled home Ramon Laureano
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Bo Bichette was removed from the game after the 6th inning with right quad tightness. You can bet the team will be very cautious with him and put him on the IL if necessary
• The Blue jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Davis Schneider whacked a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Springer
• May Chapman left the game in the bottom of the 6th with right middle finger inflammation
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6IP 6H 4R (all earned) 2BB 8K 95 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Guardians took retook the lead in the top of the 8th as Andre Gimenez double scoring Calhoun and Laureano
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Kevin Kiermaier
• The Guardians took the lead in the top of the 11th as Calhoun doubled scoring Straw and Ramirez 
• A batter later, Laureano drilled a 2-run jack to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Calhoun
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a sac fly by Whit Merrifield that scored Kiermaier 
• Final score: Guardians 10 Blue Jays 7

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8. He got through the 1st inning efficiently,  but after that his command went on him and the Guardians starting hitting the cover off the ball. It was one of those games every pitcher encounters where Kikuchi did not have his best stuff and as a result he gave up 4 runs. At least his next opponent on passport should be easier in the mile high city next weekend. 
• The bullpen had a rough day, allowing 6 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 6. Two normally reliable relievers,  Tim Mayza and Jay Jackson had bad days.  Mayza did not record an out and gave up 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk. Jay Jackson, after an intentional walk and wild pitch, gave up two run double and then made a bad pitch that went into the Blue Jays bullpen. Jordan Romano and Yimi Garcia were both excellent. Romano threw 1.2 innings, got out of the mess created by Mayza striking out two batters.  He nearly made it through the 9th inning too, but ran out of gas. Yimi Garcia retired every batter he faced and struck out three.  The Blue jays could make a move for a fresh arm tomorrow. 
• Oh boy,  the Blue Jays lost two key players to injury with Bichette leaving with right quad soreness and Matt Chapman leaving with a recurrence of the inflammation to his right middle finger. It's possible one or both players could wind up on the IL.  Bichette is too important a player for the Blue Jays to take any chances of him playing hurt. With Chapman, the Blue Jays may want to just nip this finger injury in the bud. It's unfortunate that they let Paul DeJong go when Bichette returns from his knee injury.  The team could use his veteran presence. Expect Santiago Espinal to play shortstop and Cavan Biggio to get reps and hot corner. Whit Merrifield and Davis Schneider will likely platoon at 2B. Here's hoping neither Bichette nor Chapman are out too long. 
• Offensively,  I liked how the Blue Jays bats responded today. Vlad finally cracked the elusive 20 hr plateau, becoming the first Blue Jay to reach the milestone this season.  George Springer and Davis Schneider also both went yard. Schneider was the catalyst to the game tying run with a clutch double. Daulton Varsho would later bring pinch runner Kevin Kiermaier home with a single
• This game was really lost, once again, on the chronic inability to drive in runners in scoring position. In the 9th inning, Cavan Biggio made a bad bunt and baserunner Danny Jansen was thrown out at 3rd base. Santiago Espinal then grounded into an inning ending double play. In the 10th inning,  Brandon Belt struck out swinging,  Vlad popped out and after Springer was intentionally walked Kiermaier grounded out to end the threat. While the Blue Jays were able to get one run off Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase in the 11th inning, he was able to dig deep and get two huge strikeouts to finally mercifully end the game
• In terms of the wild card race,  the Blue Jays lost a game to the Astros, who won big, (they are now 2.5 games back of the last WC spot) and the Mariners, who held off a late rally by the Royals and are now in full possession of 1st in the AL west. Meanwhile, the Rangers lost a marathon 13 inning game to the Twins after reliever Jonathan Hernandez issued the straight walks with 2 outs.  The Blue jays face them September 11-14 at the rivers center in what is shaking up to be a massive series. The Dodgers did the Blue Jays a favor by defeating the Red Sox to keep the Red Sox two games back of the Blue Jays. The Red Sox come to Toronto to wrap up the season series September 15-17.
• Up next, the Blue Jays welcome the Washington Nationals to Toronto for the time since 2021, when the Nationals took three of four in the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 33-22. While Washington is one of the weaker teams in the MLB, they will no doubt relish playing the role of spoiler, so the Blue Jays better not take them lightly. Kevin Gausman starts against Nationals righty Josiah Gray.

Game #130 - Cleveland Guardians (61-69) @ Toronto Blue Jays (71-59) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider scored three times and drove in three runs in an 8-3 win over the Guardians

After another untimely loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3 game skid and avoid their 17th series loss of the season. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Santiago Espinal at SS. Davis Schneidergot the start at 2B.  Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 17th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians took the lead in the top of the 1st as Jose Ramirez drilled a solo bomb of the basing of the second deck in left
• The Blue a Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette singled scoring Whit Merrifield
• Three batters later, Davis Schneider hammered a 2-2-run jack to left-center; also scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Matt Chapman singled scoring Schneider
• A batter later,  Danny Jansen scored on a sac fly by Santiago Espinal
• Logan Allen pitching line: 4IP 6H 5R (all earned) 1BB 2K 62 pitches (40 for strikes)
• The Guardians got one back in the top of the 5th as Tyler Freeman smacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Guardians got one back in the top of the 6th as Ramon Laureano was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded forcing in Kole Calhoun
• Hyun-Jin Ryu pitching line: 5IP 4H 3R (2 earned) 0BB 5K 70 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Schneider singled home Vladimir Guerrero Jr
• Four batters later, Daulton Varsho singled scoring Springer and Schneider
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Guardians 3

My Take:

• Hyun-Jin Ryu battled through 5 innings,  giving up 3 runs (2 earned) on 4 his while walking none and striking out 5. Ryu was taken deep twice today,  but continues to show great command, which is usual the last thing to come back after Tommy John surgery. No doubt he will get interest from teams in free agency this winter. Should the Blue Jays squeak into the playoffs, Ryu has a strong chance of a likely bullpen role. He could even get a start in the divisional round of the playoffs should the Blue Jays make it that far. 
• The bullpen gave up just one hit while striking out 5 in the final 4 innings. Unfortunately the team lost set up man Erik Swanson, who injured his midback throwing a pitch. Tim Mayza did a great job getting a double play to escape the inning. Yimi Garcia also did an excellent job, striking out the side when he inherited a bases loaded jam. Trevor Richards pitched the last two innings. Could the Swanson injury lead to the debut to Chad Green? 
• Davis Schneider was the hero today,  scoring three times and driving in three runs
• Every Blue Jays starter except Santiago Espinal had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 5-11 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race,  the Red Sox and Mariners won and the Astros and Rangers were leading their games.  The Blue Jays will still be out of a playoff spot by the end of the day, but may be chasing a different team for the final WC spot with the Mariners poised to take over the top spot in the AL west division with a Rangers loss. While the Blue Jays are probably too far back of the Orioles for the AL East division title, the Orioles may have lost closer Felix Bautista for a while with the righty suffering some degree of injury to his UCL and a likely Tommy John surgery. At the moment, the Blue Jays are a game back of the Astros and two games back of the Mariners and Rangers. The Red Sox are 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 2nd straight win, 25th series win and 12th season series win.  Yusei Kikuchi starts against Guardians righty Noah Syndergaard. 

Game #129 - Cleveland Guardians (61-68) @ Toronto Blue Jays (70-59) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a solo HR in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 5-2

After yet another loss to the Orioles,  the Blue Jay's returned home to take on the Guardians. The two teams split the 4 games in Cleveland a couple of days ago with the Blue Jays outscoring the Guardians 7-6. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in he field after DH'ing yesterday (Brandon Belt served as DH tonight). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF.  Whit Merrifield got the start at 2B.  Could the Blue Jays snap the 2- game skid? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #117 - Toronto Blue Jays (65-52) @ Cleveland Guardians (56-60) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifield scored a run and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Guardians came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 4-3

After eking out a 1-0 shutout win thanks to seven excellent innings from Kevin Gausman and a George Springer solo HR, the Blue Jays were looking for two straight wins over the Guardians and their 23rd series win of the season. Alek Manoah got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Nathan Lukes got the start in CF. Santiago Espinal was at SS. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 23rd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #116 - Toronto Blue Jays (65-51) @ Cleveland Guardians (55-60) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausnan threw 7 shutout innings in a 1-0 shutout win over the Guardians

After being shutout for the 6th time this season, the Blue Jays were looking to retake the season series lead. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Danny Jansen served as DH. Could the Blue Jays retake the season series lead? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #115 - Toronto Blue Jays (64-51) @ Cleveland Guardians (55-59) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw seven strong innings in a 1-0 shutout loss to the Guardians

After eking out a win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 5 games. Kevin Kiermaier was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to yesterday) with an elbow laceration. Nathan Lukes was recalled to take his place on the roster. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Matt Chapman got the complete day off with Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Whit Merrifield was in LF and batting leadoff. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 5 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Guardians opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ramon Laureano doubled scoring Oscar Gonzalez
• Tanner Bibee pitching line:7IP 6H 0R 0BB 6K 100 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 7IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 95 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Emmanuel Clase pitched a scoreless 9th for his 30th save of the season
• Final score: Guardians 1 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi pitched 7 strong innings, giving up a run (unfortunately the only run scored by either team) on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. He and Guardians starter Tanner Bibee threw the same number of strikes (63) and struck out the same number of batters (6). Kikuchi walked a batter. whereas Bibee did not walk anyone and Bibee allowed three more hits. In short, both starters were dialled in tonight. After allowing a 2-out walk in the 3rd inning, Kiuchi retired 12 in a row. In fact, Kikuchi retired 18 of the last 20 batters he faced. Just phenomenol
• Genesis Cabrera pitched a perfect 8th with one strikeout. He's almost certain to make the playoff roster with how well he is pitching
• Not much to say about the offense. Driving in runners in scoring position is still a major weak spot. The Blue Jays had two great chances to score early (runners on 1st and 2nd with 2 outs in the 1st inning only to have Daulton Varsho kill the rally with a groundout to 2nd, and bases loaded with one out in the 3rd inning only to have Geothe Springer and Varsho strikeout). Heck they had runners on the corners with 2 outs in the 9th only to have Alejandro Kirk fly out to CF to end the game.
• Up next, the Blie Jays try to retake the season series lead. Kevin Gausman starts against Guardians lefty Logan Allen/