Game #105 Toronto Blue Jays (63-42) @ Detroit Tigers (60-46) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run double in a 6-1 win over the Tigers

After another comeback win on the strength of 6 runs over the 4th and 5th innings, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and to notch their 19th series win and 12th season series win of the season. Will Wagner was placed on the restricted list (in Cooperstown watching his dad get inducted into the baseball hall of fame) and Alan Roden was recalled from AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins, 19 series wins and 12 season series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Alejandro Kirk left the game in the top of the 4th after enduring a foul tip off the mask in the bottom half of the 3rd.
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 1H 0R 1BB 10K 96 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Tarik Skubal pitching line: 6IP 5H 0R 3BB 7K 96 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 8th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Joey Loperfido and  George Springer 
• The Blue jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th as Nathan Lukes belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Ernie Clement 
• Three batters later, Springer whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-center 
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr smacked a solo blast to left-center 
• The Tigers got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out hit by Riley Greene that scored Jake Rogers
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Tigers 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman was excellent today, firing 6 shutout innings, giving up just one hit and a walk while striking out 10. He needed to be sharp today given the Blue Jays were facing the best pitcher in baseball. Even better was his ability to adjust midgame when his primary catcher, Alejandro Kirk was removed from the game after getting his bell rung by a foul ball off his mask. He retired 8 of the first 9 batters he faced and 7 of the final 8 on the day.
• The bullpen gave a run on one hit while walking none and striking out 3 over the last 3 innings. Brayden Fisher and Mason Fluharty both retired every batter they faced
• Bo Bichette (2-run double), Nathan Lukes (2-run HR), George Springer (solo HR) and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (solo HR) provided the offence today
• The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays will certainly be buyers at the trade deadline next Friday. Their biggest need will be a pitcher or two for the bullpen and maybe a starter as well. Pretty tough to mess with the lineup given the way everyone is rolling. I can see Davis Schneider or maybe one of the outfielders being dangled should the Blue Jays need to sweeten the deal to outbid other teams. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 5 games and complete their 8th series sweep of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Tigers righty Jack Flaherty

Game #104 Toronto Blue Jays (62-42) @ Detroit Tigers (60-45) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run double in a 6-2 comeback win over the Tigers

After routing the Tigers yesterday on the strength of 11 runs over 3 innings and 8 strong innings from Eric Lauer, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (George Springer served as DH tonight. Addison Barger was in RF and Will Wagner was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Dillon Dingler doubled scoring Wenceel Perez
• The Blue jays tied it up in the top of the 4th as Addison Barger doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Two batters later, Barger scored on a throwing error by Tigers SS Javier Baez on a ball hit by Joey Loperfido 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Nathan Lukes 
• A batter later, Bo Bichette doubled scoring Guerrero Jr and George Springer
• Two batters later, Alejandro Kirk singled home Bichette
• Weider Montero pitching line: 4IP 9H 6R (5 earned) 0BB 3K 76 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Tigers got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Spencer Torkelson belted a solo jack to left-center
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 6K 85 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Tigers 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios pitched 6 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. While Berrios was working his way in and out of jams most of the night, he did have an out streak of 7 batters. Berrios will definitely be in the playoff rotation, 
• The bullpen threw 3 perfect innings, striking out 3. Hat tip to Addison Barger for a nice sliding catch
• Vlad (2 runs scored, RBI), Bo Bichette (run scored, 2 RBI) and Addison Barger (run scored, RBI) provided the offense today
• The Blue Jays were 4-15 with runners in scoring position
• This team continues to find ways to win. Tonight was their 33rd comeback win of the season. The 1992 team had 40 comeback wins, the following year the Blue Jays had 44 comeback wins. 
• Who had the Blue Jays with the best record in baseball at any point in the season? This team continues to get hits at opportune times, the starting pitching has been excellent as of late and every plsyer on the team wants in on the success. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games, notch their 19th series win and 12 season series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal

Game #103 Toronto Blue Jays (61-42) @ Detroit Tigers (60-44) - game recap

 

Eric Lauer threw 8 strong innings in an 11-4 comeback win over the Tigers

After a huge win over the Yankees thanks to a 2-RBI, 2 runs scored effort from Vlad and 7.1 strong innings from Chris Bassitt,  the Blue Jays were looking to make it two straight wins as they began a road trip in Detroit tonight.  The Tigers took the series in Toronto back in mid-May,  outscoring the Blue Jays 9-8. 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, Nathan Lukes was in CF and George Springer was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Jahmai Jones whacked a solo blast to left-center
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring George Springer
• Three batters later, Ernie Clement drilled a 3-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Guerrero Jr. and Addison Barger
• A batter later, Joey Loperfido smacked a solo blast to right-center
• Reese Olson pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 5R (all earned) 2BB 4K 95 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• Two batters later, Barger tripled scoring Guerrero Jr, and Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Barger scored on a sac fly by Clement
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Lukes hammered a 2-run bomb to right; also scoring Will WaThegner
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 97 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Tigers got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Spencer Torkelson drilled a solo blast to left
• Three batters later, Riley Greene scored on a ground out hit by Wenceel Perez
• Two batters later, Colt Keith singled scoring Matt Vierling
• Final score: Blue Jays 11 Tigers 4

My Take:

• Eric Lauer was excellent again, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 6. He retired 11 in a row at one point. Lauer is making a strong case to use a 6-man rotation the rest of the way and to be a starter in the playoffs. At this point, I would give him the ball in game 1 of a playoff series.
• Chad Green on the other hand is pitching his way off the team and could be a roster move (DFA) when the acquired players join the team. Green was roughed up for 3 runs on 4 hits in the 9th inning. The Blue Jays almost had to use a second reliever to end the game.
• Offensively, Vlad (2 runs scored, 2RBI), Nathan Lukes (2 runs scored, 2RBI), Addison Barger (2 runs scored, 2RBI), and Ernie Clement (4RBI, including a 3-run HR) carried the team to victory 
• Every Blue Jays starter had a hit and all but Tyler Heineman either scored a run or drove in a run
• The comeback kids did it again. The Blue Jays now have 32 comeback wins on the season, They will be a tough elimination in the playoffs
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Tigers righty Keider Montero

Game #46 Detroit Tigers (31-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (22-24) - game recap

 

Alejamdro Kirk drove in a run in a 3-2 loss to the Tigers

After a huge comeback win thanks to fine work from the bullpen and some offensive heroics from Ernie Clement who scored one run and drove in the other, the Blue Jays were going for 2 straight wins, trying to get back to .500 and notch their 6th series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios was on the bump with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was back in the lineup as DH after missing a couple of days with minor ailmentsm in his hip and shoulder. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday. Jonatan Clase was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, get back to .500 and notch their 6th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Spencer Torkelson doubled scoring  Kerry Carpenter and Zach McKinstry
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Three batters later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 8H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 83 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Jackson Jobe pitching line: 6IP6H 2R (both earned) 2BB 5K 90 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Tigers took the lead in the top of the 7th as Torkelson singled scoring Gleyber Torres
• Will Vest pitched a scoreless 9th for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Tigers 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 6 innings, giving up a paitr of runs on 6 hits whie walking 1 and striking out 4. Berrios pitched his way in and out of jams all afternoon, but only gave up runs in the 1st inning. With a scheduled bullpen day the day before, it puts pressure on Berrios to get deeper into the next game to save the bullpen.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits and 2 walks while striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• Kudos to the offense to tying the game when they were in a 2-0 deficit. The Blue Jays weren't able to get the tying run home and they had at least one base runner in each of the last 3 innings.
• The Blue Jays were 2-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays continue the home stand against the Padres. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, outscoring the Padres 13-9. Neither team has set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #45 - Detroit Tigers (30-16) @ Toronto Blue Jays (22-23) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement scored a run and drove in a run in a 2-1 comeback win over the Tigers

After a late game rally fell short, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 7th series loss of the season. Eric Lauer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. George Springer was in RF after the half day off as DH last night. Nathan Lukes was in LF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 7th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Spencer Torkelson belted a solo jack to left-center 
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 3IP 3H 1R (earned) 0BB 5K 40 pitches (31 for strikes)
• Reese Olson pitching line: 6IP 1H 0R 1BB 6K 85 pitches (45 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 8th as Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Clement singled home Daulton Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Tigers 1

My Take:

• Eric Lauer pitched the first 3 innings, giving up a run on three hits while walking none and striking out 5. Due to Max Scherzer being hurt with no imminent timetable for a return and Spencer Turnbull going through an abbreviated spring training as he ramps up to potentially be the Blue Jays 5th starter, the Blue Jays have essentially been doing bullpen days every 5th day. This is not a sustainable over the long term since it will tax the bullpen leading to poor play and/or injuries from overuse. The Blue Jays need their starting pitchers to get deeper into the game
• The bullpen threw 6 shutout innings, allowing 1 hit, walking 2 and striking out 2. Brandon Little and Yimi Garcia both retired every batter they faced. Jeff Hoffman, who got a huge break when Gleyeber Torres made the unwise decision to try and advance to second base on a fly out to left, was credited with the win. It was nice to see him and Garcia have success since both have been struggling of late.
• The offense must have sighed a big sigh of relief when Tigers starter Reese Olson left the game following the 6th inning. The bats came to life after that. Ernie Clement drove the offense, scoring the tying run and came up clutch an inning later to walk it off.
• The Blue Jays were 2-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it 2 straight wins, to get back to .500 and notch their 6th series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Tigers starter Jackson Jobe

Game #44 - Detroit Tigers (30-15) @ Toronto Blue Jays (21-23) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 2-run HR in a 5-4 loss to the Tigers

After dropping the game following a rough start from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win as they began a weekend series against the Tigers, who won the season series 5-2 last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 39-35. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Jonatan Clase was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Michael Stefanic got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Riley Greene hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Tigers added a run in the top of the 4th as Zack McKinstry whacked a solo blast to right
• The Tigers added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Greene doubled scoring Kerry Carpenter and Colt Keith 
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 4.2IP 8H 4R (all earned) 2BB 6K 95 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 6th as Daulton Varsho smacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Jack Flaherty pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 6K 90 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Nathan Lukes was removed from the game prior to the 7th with a migraine
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Myles Straw singled scoring Addison Barger
• The Tigers added a run in the top of the 8th as Javier Baez belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• Beau Brieske pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Tigers 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Bowden Francis battled through 4.2 innings, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. As has been a big problem for the Blue Jays pitchers most of the season, Francis was taken deep twice. He was getting into and out of jams the whole night.  He hasn't been able to replicate the fine season he had last year with the batters adjusting.
• Chad Green gave up a crucial insurance run on, what else? a home run. Mason Fluharty was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, Daulton Varsho and Bo Bichette (who has shown he's capable of hitting for power lately) hit home runs and Myles Straw, who replaced Nathan Lukes, who was suffering from a migraine, had a clutch RBI single. Alas, the rally fell a run short.
• The Blue Jays were 1-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 7th series loss of the season. It will be a bullpen day for the Blue Jays with lefty Eric Lauer either starting or pitching the bulk innings. The Tigers will counter with righty Reese Olson

Game #99 - Detroit Tigers (49-51) @ Toronto Blue Jays (45-54) - game recap

 

George Springer scored 3 runs and drove in 3 runs, includinf 2 home runs, in a 5-4 come-from-behind win over the Tigers

After a los yesterday thanks a dreadful 6-run 6 inning by Trevor Richards and Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Davis Schneider was in LF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Spencer Horwitz was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off the game with a solo blast to left-center
• The Bklue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Springer belted a 2run jack to left-center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• The Tigers took the lead in the top of the 5th as Justyn-Henry Malloy hammered a grand slam to dead center; also scoring Zach McKinstrhy, Wenceel Perez and Colt Keith
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Spencer Horwirz singled scoring Springer
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Clement singled home Justin Turner
• Keider Montero pitching line: 5.1IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 3K 72 pitches (52 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 5H 4R (all earned) 3BB 5K 97 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Chad Green got the last 5 outs for his 7th save of the seaon
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Tigers 4

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5. He got out of a 1st inning jam by picking off Colt Keith at 2nd base. Gausman retired the last 6 batters he faced
• The bullpen made the one run lead stand, but it took a great catch by Daulton Varsho, that surely would have resulted in at least the tying run and likely the go-ahead run too. Chad Green should be the closer next year
• Don't look now, but George Springer is red-hot. The Blue Jays lead off hitter hit a leadoff HR and added a 2-run shot and later scored the tying run in the 5th inning. Ernie Clement had a big day too, scoring once and driving in the game-winning run
• Every Blue Jays starter except Leo Jimenez had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays continue the home stand against their division rivals, the Tampa Bay Rays. The Rays have won 4 of the 7 games in the season series, but the Blue Jays have outscored the Rays 32-28. Jose Berrios starts for the Blue Jays and the Rays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #98 - Detroit Tigers (49-50) @ Toronto Blue Jays (44-54) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 2-run HR in a 7-3 loss to the Tigers

After a late-gane rally fell short, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Not surprisingly, Bo Bichette was placed on the 10-day IL with a right calf strain after leaving yesterday's game early with that recurring calf injury. Expect him to remain sidelined longer this time to really heal the injury. Addison Barger was recalled from AAA-ball.Yusei Kikuchi made what could be his final start in a Blue Jays uniform as he is expected to be traded to a contender in the next ten days. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. Leo Jimenez got the start at SS. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 16th series loss of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Reese Olson pitching line: 2IP 1H 0R 2BB 0K 30 pitches (16 for strikes)
• The Tigers opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Andy Ibanez doubled scoring Randy Vilade. Ibanez advanced to 3rd base on a fielding error by Daulton Varsho
• The Tigers added 4 runs in the top of the 6th on a grand slam to the second deck in left by Jake Rogers; also scoring Matt Vierling, Mek Canha and Weencel Perez
• Four batters later, Ibanez singled scoring Javier Baez
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 5IP 4H 4R (all earned) 2BB 8K 94 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a run back in the bottom half of the inning as George Springer singled scoring Kevin Kiermaier 
• Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Spencer Horwitz
• Final score: Tigers 7 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 5 innings, giving up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8. To be fair, three of the runs came off the grand slam Trevor Richards gave up, but he was responsible for three of the runners. To me, he did enough for any scouts in the crowd to prove he can be a worthy asset to a playoff-bound team. Don't forget, he has pitched out of the bullpen in a playoff game, so that could be an option if a team isn't comfortable using him as a starter.
• The bullpen, especially Trevor Richards was a disaster, giving up 6 runs (three charged to Kikuchi) on 4 hits and a walk. Every reliever not named Trevor Richards retired every batter they faced. Yimi Garcia struck out the side in his first action in a month.
• Vlad (2-run HR) and George Springer (RBI single) provided the offence. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-2 with runners in scoring position\
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid and avoid being swept for the 2nd time this season. Kevin Gausman starts against Tigers righty Keider Montero

Game #97 - Detroit Tigers (48-50) @ Toronto Blue Jays (44-53) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr, the Blue Jay's lone all-star, hit a 2-run HR in a 5-4 loss to the Tigers

After a much-needed 4-day break for the all-star game, the Blue Jays opened the unofficial 2nd half of the season with a weekend series at home against the Tigers, who took 3 of 4 in Detroit two months ago with both teams scoring 23 runs each. Yimi Garcia was reinstated from  the 15 day IL. Erik Swanson was recalled from AAA-ball. Zack Pop was optioned back to AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup and at SS after missing seeveral games prior to the all-star break with a right calf strain. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing the last game before the all-star break (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Riley Greene singled scoring Mike Vierling
• A batter later, Mark Cahna whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Greene\
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Spencer Horwitz
• Jack Flaherty pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 98 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Bo Bichette left the game just prior to the top of the 7th 
• The Tigers added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Wenceel Perez belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Gio Urshela
• Chriss Bassitt pitching line: 6.2IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 6K 95 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 8th as George Springer smacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Kevin Kiermaier 
• Tyler Holton pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Tigers 5 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt battled through 6-2 innings, giving up 5 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. The Tigers took him deep twice for 4 of the runs. Bassit retired 8 of the 1st 11 batters he faced, including starting a line drive double play. It's been an up and down season so far for the Blue Jays righty. who'll likely have an opportunity to battle for the opening day start next year.
• The bullpen threw 2.1 perfect innings while striking out 3 to give the offence a chance to comeback
• Sadly, the offence is still inept aat driving in runners in scoring position and getting clutch hits when needed. Vlad and George Springer provided the offense with a 2-run HR each
• The bigger concern has to be the health of Bo Bichette, who came up limping in the bottom of the 6th with a calf injury. He already had an IL stint prior to the all-star break and missed seeveral games after coming off the IL. Time to give him an extended break and let the calf heal. It's a lost season anyway, so why not shut him down for the next six weeks and attempt a comeback for September?
• You have to feel for Joey Votto, who has had the season from hell, starting with stepping on a bat in the dugout after hitting a home run in his first AB as a Blue Jay. Votto was slated to begin the final stage of his rehab in AAA-Buffalo. Instead, he was a late scratch after reinjuring the ankle in warm-up drills. You have to wonder if this is the end of his career. He's 40 years old and has endured health problems the last few seasons. It's very unlikely he'll win a series with the Blue Jays anytime soon. The only way I see him signing with another team is if there's a very strong chance of winning the elusive world series.
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to even the series in what could be the final start in a Blue Jays uniform for Yusei Kikuchi. The Tigers will counter with righty Reese Olson

Game #52 - Toronto Blue Jays (23-29) @ Detroit Tigers (26-27) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was 4-5 with a run scored and an RBI in a a losing effort as the Tigers came from behind to walk off the Blue Jays 14-11

After another brutal loss due to the inept offence that has been outscored by everyone but the White Sox and Mariners, the Blue Jays were looking to avoid their 8th series loss and to escape Detroit with a series split. Yusei Kuikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Daniel Vogelbach served as DH. Cavan Biggio got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays avoid their 8th series loss and earn the series split in Detroit.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Javier Baez doubled scoring Spencer Torkelson and Wenceel Perez
• Three batters later, Andy Ibanez singled scoring Baez and Jake Rogers
• The Tigers added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Torkelson hammered a solo bomb to left 
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 3IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 0K 56 pitches (38 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 4th as Cavan Biggio drilled a 2-run bomb to right-center; also Ernie Clements
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a ground out hit by Justin Turner
• Casey Mize pitching line: 4.1IP 8H 3R (all earned) 2BB 0K 86 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Tigers added 3 runs in the bottom half of the inning as Carson Kelly belted a 3-run jack to left and into the Tigers bullpen; also scoring Mark Cahna and Gio Urshela
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th on a sac fly by Davis Schneider that scored Isiah Kiner-Falefa
• A batter later, Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Biggio 
• The Tigers added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Matt Vierling smacked a solo blast to left and into the Tigers bullpen
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Kiner-Falefa whacked a solo-blast to left-center
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the top of the 8th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Schneider and Danny Jansen
• Two batters later, Daulton Varsho belted a 3-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Bichette and Kevin Kiermaier 
• The Tigers tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Cahna singled scoring Vierling and Colt Keith 
• The Tigers walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Vierling hammered a 3-tun bomb to left-center; also scoring Torkelson and Kerry Carpenter
• Final score: Tigers 14 Blue Jays 11

My Take-

• Yusei Kikuchi was lit up for 5 runs on 8 hits while walking none and striking out none over 3 innings. The top of the 2nd inning was a disaster with the Tigers scoring 4 runs on 5 hits in the inning. The Blue Jays could ill-afford to fall too far behind given the inept offence lately and all season
• The bullpen had a disastrous day, allowing 9 runs on 9 hits while walking 4 and striking out 3 over the last 6 innings. Erik Swanson was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. Yimi Garcia was tagged with the blown save and Jordan Romano was tagged with the loss
• I have to give credit to the offence, which chipped away at the deficit and came all the way back to take a brief lead. Vlad (4-5, 1RBI 1run scored), Daulton Varsho (3-run HR), Bo Bichette (2RBI, a run scored) and Cavan Biggio (2RBI and 2 runs scored) drove the offence today
• Every Blue Jays starter, except Daniel Vogelbach, reached base at least once and all but Vogelbach and Davis Schneider had at least one hit
• It was a huge mistake to bring back the home run jacket. The team needs to focus on the little things. Celebrating a 3-run HR like you won the world series is not helping matters, especially when the Tigers immediately tie the game and eventually win
• If ever there is a game where someone is getting fired, it is today, but I think this offensive outburst might have earned everyone another final chance with the only team worse than the Blue Jays up next
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 2-game skid in Chicago as they continue the road trip against the White Sox. The Blue Jays won 2 of 3 back in Toronto a week ago, outscoring the White Sox 18-10. Chris Bassitt starts against White Sox righty Nick Nastrini

Game #51 - Toronto Blue Jays (23-28) @ Detroit Tigers (25-27) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider knocked in the Blue Jays only run in a 2-1 loss to the Tigers

 After a loss last night due to a late rally falling 4 runs short, the Blue Jays were looking to retake the series lead. Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was back in the leadoff spot and in LF. Justin Turner moved up in the batting order to the 2nd spot. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and IKF got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays retake the series lead? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers took the lead in the bottom of the 1st as Kerry Carpenter whacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Matt Cahna
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Davis Schneider doubled scoring Isiah Kiner-Falefa
• Reese Olson pitching line: 6.1IP 3H 1R (unearned) 3BB 4K 93 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 7H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 83 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Tyler Holton pitched a scoreless 9th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Tigers 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Jose Berrios threw 7 strong innings, giving up a pair of runs on 7 hits while walking none and striking out 5. He fell behind early when he gave up a 2-run HR in the 1st inning, but he threw 6 shutout innings thee rest of the way to give his team every chance to comeback. It must have felt like deja vu from last October, except this time, John Schneider kept him in the game. Honestly, at this point, the Blue Jays might as well let the pitchers bat. I mean they can't do much worse than some of the plugs in the lineup currently
• Jordan Romano threw a scoreless 8th, allowing a hit and striking out two. He likely would have pitched today regardless of where the game was at since he hasn't worked in a while since the Blue Jays were either leading by a lot or losing.
• Like last night, the offense put together a late rally that fell short. The 7th inning saw Davis Schneider double in a run to put himself as the go-ahead run at 2nd base with 2 outs only for the rally to die on a ground out by Justin Turner. In the 9th, IKF doubled with one out, hustled to third on a sac fly and was stranded there when Danny Jansen struck out to end the game. I do like that the Blue Jays have been incorporating the bunt a little more and also running. Maybe the team should deploy the hit and run as well.
• Vlad extended his hitting streak to 4 games
• The Blue Jays were 1-11 with runners in scoring position
• Also, the return of the home run jacket won't help - will just make the team look cocky when they get a home run when they are losing
• Up next, the Blue Jays try and avoid their 8th series loss of the season. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Tigers righty Casey Mize

Game #50 - Toronto Blue Jays (23-27) @ Detroit Tigers (24-27) - game recap

 

Genesis Cabrera threw a perfect inning in a 6-2 loss to the Tigers

After A blowout win over the Tigers yesterday thanks to a team effort offensively and 6 strong innings from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games. Alek Manoah got the start got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Daulton Varsho batted leadoff today. Justin Turner served as DH and the rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it 3 straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #91 - Toronto Blue Jays (50-41) @ Detroit Tigers (39-50) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a game-tying 2-run HR in the 9th inning of a 4-3 come-from-behind win over the Tigers

And the Blue Jays have reached the end of the unofficial 1st half of the season and the start of all star week and a much needed four days off.  After a brutal 2-0 shutout loss to the Tigers yesterday in which the Blue Jays were no hit for the 7th time in franchise history (the first time it was a combined no bitter), the Blue Jays were looking to end the first half on a winning note and also get their 18th series win and 9th season series win.  Zach Pop was reinstated from the 10- day IL and was optioned to AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Danny Jansen served as DH. Could the Blue Jays get a win on the last day of the 1st half and notch their 18th series win and 9th season series win? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #90 - Toronto Blue Jays (49-41) @ Detroit Tigers (39-49) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6 solid innings in a 2-0 shutout loss to the Tigers. It was the 7th time in franchise history that the Blue Jays have been no-hit.

After a blowout win yesterday thanks to a solid six inning effort from Alek Manoah and a combined 7 RBI from may Chapman and George Springer, the Blue Jays were going for 5 straight wins and 18 series wins and 9 season series wins. George Springer was placed on the paternity list and Nathan Lukes was recalled. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate.  Cavan Biggio was in RF. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays made it 5 straight wins and 18 series wins and 9 season series wins?  Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Tigers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Spencer Torkelson doubled scoring Riley Green
• A batter later, Kerry Carpenter tripled home Torkelson
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 7K 96 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Matt Manning pitching line: 6.2IP 0H 0R 3BB 5K 91 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Alex Lange pitched a perfect 9th for his 13th save of the season
• Final score: Tigers 2 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7. You have to wonder if the soggy grind might have been a factor early on. Both pitchers had tough 1st innings. While Matt Manning was able to escape his jam without giving up a run or hit after hitting a batter and walking a batter to start the game, the Tigers scored twice on three hits and a walk in their opening inning at the plate. The weather improved and Gausman allowed just one more hit and walk the rest of the way retiring 8 in a row at one point.  Gausman finished his 1st half with a 7-5 record and a 3.03ERA over 19 starts. He will represent the Blue Jays at next week's all star game, likely pitching an inning
• The bullpen game up a walk over the final 2 innings to keep the score close 
• Offensively,  the Blue Jays did nothing.  Right off the bat they had runners on 1st and 2nd after Tigers starter Matt Manning hit a batter and walked a batter as he struggled to navigate a wet mound. All day long,  Blue Jays hitters were chasing pitches.  Would having George Springer in the lineup have made a difference?  Maybe. 
• It is the 7th time in franchise history that an opposing pitcher or pitchers has/have thrown a no bitter against the Blue Jays
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the unofficial 1st half on a winning note and also notch their 18th series win and 9th season series win. Chris Bassitt starts against Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal

Game #13 - Detroit Tigers (3-9) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-5) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw six strong innings in a 3-1 loss to the Tigers

After a huge come from behind win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to four games and earn their first series sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt, who was looking for his first win in a Blue Jays uniform, got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Matt Chapman, who has been dealing with a nagging injury, was given the complete day off. Vlad got the  half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it four wins in a row and complete their first sweep of the season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #12-- Detroit Tigers (2-9) @ Toronto Blue Jays (8-4) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in the game winning run as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Tigers 4-3 in ten innings

After celebrating the home opener with a bang, literally, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games. Kevin Gusman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Matt Chapman got the half day off as DH with Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Whit Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #11 - Detroit Tigers (2-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (7-4) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk belted a 3-run HR in a 9-3 win over the Tigers

After a lengthy road trip that went through Missouri and California, the Blue Jays returned home to their newly renovated stadium. Their opponent will be the team geographically closest to them, the Detroit Tigers. The Blue Jays won the season series last year 5-2, outscoring the Tigers 33-15, Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing on Sunday. Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the blue jays extend the winner streak 2 games and win the home? Opener question? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #102- Detroit Tigers (41-62) @ Toronto Blue Jays (57-45) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 7 strong innings in a 4-1 win over the Tigers

After a big come from behind win yesterday, thanks to a huge 3-run bomb by Teoscar Hernandez, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win and 17th series win of the season and end their 4th straight month with a win as well. Yes, the Blue Jays have ended every month this season with a win. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was off for the second time in three days as he nurses a sore elbow. Raimel Tapia was in CF. Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins to end the month of July and the home stand with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #101- Detroit Tigers (41-61) @ Toronto Blue Jays (56-45) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez hit a go-ahead 3-run HR in a 5-3 come-from-behind win over the Tigers

After dropping yesterday's game to the Tigers, the Blue Jays were looking to retake the lead in the series. With a win today, the Blue Jays would take the season series Max Castillo was sent down to AAA-ball and Trent Thornton was recalled in his place. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup as DH. Bo Bichette was also back in the lineup after missing yesterday with a banged up shoulder from a Thursday collision. Santiago Espinal was back at 2B. Could the Blue Jays get their 8th season series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #100- Detroit Tigers (41-60) @ Toronto Blue Jays (55-45) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah pitched into the 6th inning in a 4-2 come-from behind loss to the Tigers. Manoah left the game in the 6th inning after getting hit in his pitching elbow by a hard comebacker

And the Blue Jays have reached the century mark in games played. After a huge win yesterday on the back of a pair of Matt Chapman home runs and 5 solid innings from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking for 2 straight wins. Alek Manoah got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Not surprisingly George Springer was out of the lineup tonight after exiting early last night with that troublesome elbow. Raimel Tapia took his spot in CF. Bo Bichette also had the complete day off with Santiago Espinal at SS and Cavan Biggio at 2B. Zack Collins served as DH tonight. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.