Game #156 Toronto Blue Jays (90-66) @ Kansas City Royals (78-78) - game recap

Andres Gimenez drove in a pair of runs and scored once in an 8-5 victory over the Royals to clinch a berth into the 2025 MLB postseason

 

After a heartbreaking 2-1 loss thanks to an anemic offence, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (George Springer served as DH today). Davis Schneider was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was at SS and Ernie Clement was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Andres Gimenez singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• A batter later, Ernie Clement scored on a sac bunt by Tyler Heineman
• A batter after that, George Springer doubled home Gimenez
• The Royals got a pair back in the bottom of the 4th as Carter Jensen singled scoring Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Heineman and Daulton Varsho
• A batter later, Asdison Barger doubled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Garcia singled scoring Yastrzemski
• A batter later, Salvador Perez singled scoring Pasquantino
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 5H 4R (all earned) 3BB 2K 76 pitches (44 for strikes)
• Michael Wacha pitching line: 5IP 8H 6R (all earned) 1BB 4K 89 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Randal Grichuk singled scoring Jac Caglianone
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Clement singled scoring Myles Straw
• A batter later, Gimenez tripled scoring Clement
• Jeff Hoffman threw a scoreless 9th for his 32nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Royals 5

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4.1 innings, giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while walking 3 and striking out 2. It's incredile that he has managed to pitch at all four levels of baseball, starting in Vancouver way back in April and now making his second big league start today. The Royals did get to him in the 4th inning, but he had an out streak of 10 batters after walking tthe first batter of the day on 5 pitches. No doubt he'll get a solid chance in spring training to make the opening day roster, but getting a taste of the MLB this year will do wonders for his development. I don't see Yesavage on the playoff roster unless Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer are both unable to play due to injury.
• The bullpen gave up a runon 5 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 5 innings. Seranthonny Dominguez and Eric Lauer both retired every batter they faced. For Jeff Hoffman, despite giving up a hit, he looked to be in complete control of the game. The Blue Jays need him to round into form the last week if this squad is going deep in the postseason.
• The bottom of the lineup did the damage with Ernie Clement, Andres Gimenez and Tyler Heineman combining to go 5-11 with 4 runs scored and 4RBI. Also nice to see Vlad contribute with a 2-run double.
• The Blue Jays were 5-13 with runners in scoring position
• With a playoff position clinched, the next task is locking up the AL East, which could come as early as Wednesday or take the whole week. The Blue Jays have the more difficult schedule remaining against the Red Sox, who are fighting for a wild card spot and will be running out their top 3 starters and best lineups. The Rays have had the Blue Jays number all season and would likely relish spoiling the Blue Jays week by denying them the division title. Meanwhile, the Yankees, who are also finishing the season at home, face the White Sox and Orioles. At the 2moment, the Yankees are 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays, but the Blue Jays have the tie breakeer so the division title would go to them if the two teams are tied at the end of the regular season. Surely the Blue Jays would like to clinch earlier in the week so they can start resting some of the players who may be banged up.
• Kudos to the Royals for the nice tribute to broadcaster Buck Martinez, who could retire at the end of the season due to health reasons. He has fought cancer off twice and he may want to enjoy the time he has left to travel and spend valuable time with his family.
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays kick off the final homestand and week of the regular season as they welcome the Red Sox to town. The Blue Jays won 7 of the first 10 games of the season series, outscoring the Red Sox 45-44. Kevin Gausman starts Tuesday against Red Sox righty Lucas Giolito

Game #155 Toronto Blue Jays (89-66) @ Kansas City Royals (78-77) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a solo home run in a 2-1 loss to the Royals

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After a shellacking thanks to some brutal pitching from Max Scherzer, who couldn't get out of the first inning, and position pitcher/backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who allowed half of the 20 runs against, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid, avoid their 16th series loss, 8th season series loss and clinch a postseason berth. Chris Bassitt was placed on the 15-day IL with a lower back strain and Mason Fluharty was recalled from AAA-ball. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in LF and George Springer was in RF. IKF was at the hot corner. Ernie Clement was at SS and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid, avoid their 16th series loss, 8th season series loss and clinch a postseason berth? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Bobby Witt Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• A batter later, Vinnie Pasquantino whacked a solo blast to right-center 
• The Blue jays got one back in the top of the 7th as Daulton Varsho belted a solo jack to straightaway center
• Noah Cameron pitching line: 6.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 98 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 87 pitches (58 for strikes)
• Carlos Estevez pitched a scoreless 9th for his 41st save of the season
• Final score: Royals 2 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6.1 innings,  giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino hit back to back jacks, which turned out to be the difference in the game. Bieber retired nine of the first tend batters he faced and is pitching his way to being the game 1 option of a playoff series. 
• The bullpen threw 1.2 scoreless innings. Kudos to Mason Fluharty for baring down and recording 2 outs after the bases were loaded thanks to the infield screwing up what should have been an inning-ending DP and Fluharty hitting a batter. Jeff Hoffman also managed to pitch a scoreless inning despite the fact every fan was likely screaming at their tv and holding their collective breaths since traditionally, Hoffman has not thrived in non-save situations (mind you he hasn't thrived in save situations lately either.)
• The offence is picking a horrible time to slump. One run won't cut it in the playoffs. That said it was nice to see Daulton Varsho go deep against a lefty since he is the better defender in CF. The Blue Jays will likely be sending out the lineup that'll give them the best chance to clinch  tomorrow and after that, you may start seeing guys like Vladdy get a full day off.
• The Blue Jays were 0-1 with runners in scoring position
• So the Blue Jays missed a golden opportunity to clinch tonight with the Tigers having lost before the first pitch was thrown in tonight's game. The Red Sox and Yankees both gained a game on the Blue Jays with the loss, putting the Yankees just 2 games baack of the Blue Jays (really 3 games since the Blue Jays have the tiebreaker having clinched the season series against the Yankees) and the Red Sox are 5 games back. The red hot Guardians could be in play for best AL record as they sit just one game back of the Tigers in the AL Central. It's crucial for the Blue Jays to get a bye to give some of their banged up players a few days to rest and also set up the playoff rotation.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 4-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time. Trey Yesavage starts against Royals righty Michael Wacha

Game #154 Toronto Blue Jays (89-65) @ Kansas City Royals (77-77) - game recap

George Springer hit a leadoff home run in a losing effort as the Royals came dob behind to rout the Blue Jays 20-1

After another loss thanks to the inept offence, the Blue Jays made their final road stop of the season against the Royals, who took the series in Toronto back on the BC Day long weekend, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-11. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's shutout loss. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and start the last road series and last weekend of summer with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as George Springer led off the game with a solo jack to left-center
• The Royals tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Bobby Witt Jr. singled scoring Carter Jensen
• A batter later, Vinny Pasquantino doubled scoring Witt Jr.
• A batter after that, Pete Walker was ejected for arguing balls and strikes
• A batter later, Salvador Perez whacked a 3-run blast to the opposite field in right-center
• Three batters later, Michael Massey smashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Adam Frazier
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 0.2IP 7H 7R (all earned) 1BB 2K 45 pitches (30 for strikes)
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Jensen doubled scoring Jac Caglianone and Massey
• Two batters later, Pasquantino singled home Jensen
• John Schneider was ejected from the game in the bottom of the 6th for arguing balls and strikes
• Michael Lorenzen pitching line: 7.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 113 pitches (71 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Luke Maile singled scoring Jonathan India
• Two batters later, Caglianone smacked a 3-run blast to right-center; also scoring Maile and Tyler Tolbert
• The Royals added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Maile doubled scoring India and Randal Grichuk
• A batter later, Frazier singled scoring Tolbert
• A batter after that, Caglianone singled scoring Maile
• A batter later, Massey singled scoring Frazier
• A batter later, John Rave singled home Caglianone.
• Final score: Royals 20 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Max Scherzer was lit up to the tune of 7 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. There has to be big concerns about the health of Scherzer, who coudn't even get out of the 1st inning tonight. His back has been bothering him for a while. At this point, I would shut him down with just one start left and let him rest. You have to wonder if he'll follow Clayton Kershaw into retirement with the way his season is ending.
• The bullpen was even worse, getting lit up for 13 runs on 20 hits while walking 4 and striking out 4 over 7.2 innings. To be fair, ten of the runs and 13 of the hits were off position player/backup catcher Tyler Heineman, who has an ungodly 32.40ERA this season. Brandon Little and IKF both retired every batter they faced.
• George Springer hit a leadoff home run and the offence took the rest of the night off. It is starting to get concerning that the bats have gone ice cold with the season winding down. Bo Bichette won't be able to get any rehab games in since the minor league season is now over. At least Anthony Santander was able to play some rehab games.
• The Blue Jays were 0-0 with runners in scoring position and that is not a typo. Not one baserunner reached second base.
• Standings wise, the Yankees and Tigers both lost, keeping the Yankees 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East and the Blue Jays 4 games ahead of the Tigers for best record in the AL and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the 3-game skid and avoid their 16th series loss and 8th season series loss of the season. Shane Bieber starts against Royals lefty Noah Cameron

Game #113 Kansas City Royals (56-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-48) - game recap

 

Chris Bassitt threw 6 strong innings in a losing effort as the Royals came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 7-4 in 10 innings

After pulling off a win thanks to a 3-run 3rd inning rally, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 20th series win of the season. Alejandro Kirk was reinstated from the 7-day concussion IL and Leo Jimenez was optioned to AAA-ball. Chris Bassitt got the start with Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Nathan Lukes served as DH today). Myles Straw was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner and Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and notch their 20th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Myles Straw singled scoring Bo Bichette. Daulton Varsho was thrown out at home on the play to end the inning
• The Royals tied it up in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Mike Yastrzemski that scored Vinnie Pasquantino
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Joey Loperfido singled scoring Ernie Clement 
• Seth Lugo pitching line: 4.2IP 4H 2R (both earned) 4BB 3K 91 pitches (57 for strikes)
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6IP 1H 1R (earned) 3BB 5K 91 pitches (54'for strikes)
• The Royals tied it in the top of the 8th as Pasquantino singled scoring Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Royals took the lead in the top of the 10th as Kyle Isbel doubled scoring Randal Grichuk
• Three batters later, Tyler Tolbert singled scoring Isbel and Jonathan India
• A batter later, Witt Jr. scored on a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk 
• Same batter, Tolbert scored on a sac fly by Maikel Garcia
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring Straw
• Four batters later, Addison Barger singled home Lukes
• Final score: Royals 7 Blue Jays 4

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt threw 6 strong innings,  giving up a run on a hit, while walking 3 and striking out 5. The Royals did a good job of working the count and Bassitt had to battle to get outs. Shane Bieber, barring an injury setback,  could be ready to join the rotation in a week or two, at which time,  the Blue Jays could opt to go to a six man rotation so the starters, especially Bassitt, Kevin Gausman and Joerrios who were asked to pitch more innings earlier in the season with the Blue Jays effectively having 3.5 man rotation for much of the first half of the season with Max Scherzer trying to sort out his ailing thumb and an ineffective Bowden Francis occupying the other rotation spot.
• Oof was that an ugly day for the bullpen. First, one of the newly acquired bullpen arms, Louis Varland blew the save in the 8th inning. Jeff Hoffman held the score where it was with a scoreless 9th. Then came the 10th inning. Seranthony Dominguez, who yours truly was just heaping praise on a day ago, didn't retire a single batter and coughed up 5 runs on 3 hits, a walk and a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk. Not a great showing by the relievers who were supposed to improve the bullpen ahead of a pennant race.
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes (RBI, run scored), Myles Straw (RBI, run scored), Joey Loperfido (RBI single) and Addison Barger (RBI single)
• The Blue Jays need more off the bat of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. He was 0-4 today and only got on base because the Royals chose to pitch to Bo Bichette, who singled, in the 9th inning. The pressure on Guerrero Jr. is only going to get bigger, especially if Bichette leaves in free agency, a very likely scenario. Plus, Guerrero Jr.'s $500 million contract starts next season. 16HR simply isn't good enough.
• And another thing, perhaps the Blue Jays should have moved Bichette at the deadline. I know they were going to be buyrs since they had the best record in the MLB, but now Bichette can, and likely will walk away in the off-season for nothing. With the strong season Bichette is having, the Blue Jays could have gotten a few solid prospects at the very least and maybe even a roster player ready to be in the everyday lineup now.
• The Blue Jays were 5-9 with runners in scoring position. This game wasn't lost due to lack of offense, It's pretty difficult to comeback in extra innings when the bullpen gives up 5 runs.
• The one silver lining is the Marlins did the Blue Jays a favor by sweeping the Yankees. At the same time, it could be a caution not to take the weak teams lightly. On the other hand, the Red Sox won again and are just 3 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. Good thing the Blue Jays have clinched the season series on both the Red Sox and Yankees.
• Up next, The Blue Jays go right back on the road with their final west coast swing of the season, starting in Colorado tomorrow. The Blue Jays won the season series last year, but the Rockies outscored the Blue Jays 15-14. Eric Lauer starts against Rockies righty Tanner Gordon.

Game #112 Kansas City Royals (55-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (65-47) - game recap

 

Davis Schneider hit a 2-run single in a 4-2 win over the Royals

After a decisive loss last night due to the pitchers being unable to prevent runs as of late, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Max Scherzer got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ty France at 1B. Myles Straw was in CF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Davis Schneider singled scoring Tyler Heineman and Myles Straw. Royals RF John Rave was charged with a fielding error on the play
• Three batters later, Bo Bichette singled home Schneider
• Tyler Heineman was removed from the game prior to the top of the 4th after getting leveled by a pitch off the mask in thr top of  the 3rd.
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 6th as Salvador Perez whacked q solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 5K 84 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 7th on a sac bunt by Kyle Isbel that scored Adam Frazier 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Ernie Clement singled scoring Joey Loperfido 
• Noah Cameron pitching line: 6.1IP 6H 4R (all earned) 1BB 1K 94 pitches (61 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 26th save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Royals 2

My Take:

• Mazz Scherzer pitched 6 solid innings, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 5. Scherzer retired 9 of the first 11 batters he faced.  There is only one pitch he'll want back, when Salvador Perez took him deep in his final inning. Could Scherzer have gone an extra inning, considering he was at 84 pitches after 6 innings? Probably, but pulling him early might mean he's fresh for a possible playoff game if Shane Bieber or Alek Manoah have a setback in their return from tommy john surgery.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 1 hit while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Seranthony Dominguez has made the best early impression of the trade deadline. He is perfect over 3.1 innings and struck out 4 of his old teammates. He could be a key member of the back end of the bullpen.
• Offensively, Davis Schneider (2-run single), Ernie Clement (RBI single) and Bo Bichette (RBI single led the way
• Ty France got his first hit in a Blue Jays uniform and made some nice plays defensively at 1B. His defensive ability will afford the Blue Jays to give Vladdy a few days  off his feet as DH or perhaps complete days off
• The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch theit 20th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #32 - Kansas City Royals (19-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-17) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen hit a solo HR in a 6-1 loss to the Royals

After a tough loss yesterday thanks to a Michael Massey 2-run jack in the 2nd inning and a pair of insurance runs in the 8th inning, which was more than enough thanks to the Blue Jays lack of offense,  the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 5th series win and end the homestand on a winning note. Chris Bassitt got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in RF with Daulton Varsho back in the lineup and in CF after the complete day off yesterday. Addison Barger was in LF and Davis Schneider got the start at 2B. IKF was at the hot corner.  Could the Blue Jays notch their 5th series win and end the homestand with a win? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #31 - Kansas City Royals (18-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-16) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 4-1 loss to the Royals

After a huge win last night thanks to Justin Turner's 2 HR for 3 runs,  the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games,  notch their 5th series win and set up a rubber match for the season series win. Yariel Rodriguez was placed on the 15-day with thoracic spine inflammation. Reliever Zach Pop was recalled to take his place on the roster  Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup and at SS after the complete day off yesterday. George Springer was in CF and Cavan Biggio was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner and IKF was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 5th series win of the season and set up a rubber match for the season series win? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Michael Massey whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Salvador Perez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Isiah-Kiner Falefa
• Cole Ragans pitching line: 6.2 IP 4H 1R (earned) 3BB 9K 105 pitches (68 got strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 7IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 92 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals added a run in the top of the 8th as Bobby Witt Jr. doubled scoring Maikel Garcia
• A batter later, Vinnie Pasquantino doubled home Witt Jr.
• James MacArthur pitched a perfect 9th for his 7th save of the season
• Final score: Royals 4 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• After having his last start shortened due to inclement weather, Jose Berrios was solid tonight, giving up a pair of runs on five hits while walking one and striking out three. Beriios retired 9 in a row after giving up the 2-run HR. Apparently mother nature is the only thing that can slow the Blue Jays ace down. That and lack of run support.
• Thr bullpen gave up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1. Both runs were charged to Erik Swanson, who has not looked like himself since returning from injury that delayed his season start a couple of weeks. You almost hope he is playing though something.
• Offensively, not much there again. Bo Bichette drove in the only run with an RBI single and was the only Blue Jay to reach base more than once.
• The Blue Jays were 1-3 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 5th series win to end the homestand. Chris Bassitt starts against Royals righty Seth Lugo

Game #30 - Kansas City Royals (17-13) @ Toronto Blue Jays (15-15) - game recap

 

Justin Turner hit a pair of HR and drove in 3 runs in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the Royals

After eking out a win yesterdaty on a 3-run 2nd inning, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Bo Bichette got the complete day off with IKF at SS. Addison Barger was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and avoid their 2nd season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #26 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-13) @ Kansas City Royals (16-10) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement hit an RBI single in a 5-inning, rain-shortened 2-run loss to the Royals

After a 2nd straight 3-2 loss, the Blue Jays were looking to snap a 2-game skid and escape KC with a series split. A day after losing Kevin Kiermaier to the 10-day IL due to left hip flexor inflammation (allowing utility man Addison Barger to make his big league debut in LF), the Blue Jays lost reliever Bowden Francis to the 15-day IL with right forearm extensor tendinitis. Lefty Brendon Little was recalled from AAA-ball. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Justin Turner was back as DH after an off-day yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and earn the series split.

Game Highlights:

• The Royals opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Salvador Perez hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Vinnie Pasquantino
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 4th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Justin Turner
• Cole Ragans pitching line: CG 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 76 pitches (46 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: CG 5IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 1K 67 pitches (45 for strikes)
• Final score: Royals 2 Blue Jays 1 (5 innings due to rain)

My Take:

• And the quality start streak for Jose Berrios is over thanks to mother nature intervening. Berrios is having a remarkable start to the season with 4 wins in 5 starts, 5 quality starts (pitched minimum 6 innings, allowing 3 or less earned runs), a 0.85 ERA and 1.011 WHIP. Tonight, Berrios gave up a 2-run in the 1st inning. He gave up a further 2 walks and hits over the last 4 innings and struck out a batter. He retired 9 of the last 10 batters he faced.
• Davis Schneider was the only Blue Jays batter to reach base multiple times, drawing 2 walks
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 runners in scoring position.
• Up next, the Blue Jays limp home, literally and figuratively, to open a 3-game series against the team with the highest expectations in baseball, the LA Dodgers. The series will feature Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, who signed baseball's richest deal and stealthily deferred the vast majority of it to the end of the deal. It will be interesting to see how Blue Jays fans greet Ohtani, who was said to be on a plane to Toronto, only to announce the record deal with the Dodgers on his instagram page the next day. The Blue Jays won the 2023 season against the Dodgers 2-1, outscoring the Dodgers 21-12. Chris Bassitt starts against Dodgers righty Gavin Stone.

Game #24 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-11) @ Kansas City Royals (14-10) - game recap

 

Justin Turner scored a run and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Royals came from behind to edge the Blue Jays 3-2

After a solid win last night, thanks to clutch hits from Bo Bichette and Daulton Varsho and stellar pitching from Yusei Kikuchi, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to two games. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blur Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Justin Turner singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Turner
• The Royals got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a missed catch error by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a ball hit by Kyle Isbel that scored Michael Massey
• Two batters later, Bobby Witt Jr. doubled scoring Isbel and Maikel Garcis
• Michael Wacha pitching line: 4IP 8H 2R (both earned) 3BB 4K 96 pitches (55 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6.2IP 7H 3R (none earned) 1BB 2K 99 pitches (65 for strikes)
• James MacArthur got the last 6 outs for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Royals 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6.2 innings, giving up 3 unearned runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 2. Vlad owes him an apology dinner after he missed a catch that should have ended the inning. Instead a run scored on the play and two batters later, the Royals had a one run lead. Gausman has been pitching better lately after a rough first few starts of the season
• The bullpen gave up a hit in the last 1.1 innings. Tim Mayza is also looking better his last few relief appearances
• Kevin Kiermaier left the game with left hip flexor discomfort. Given his injury history with the hip, expect the Blue Jays ro be cautious with him.
• Offensively, Justin Turner did the damage driving in a run and scoring another. Turner has been the Blue Jays best hitter by far.
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to retake the series lead. Yariel Rodriguez starts against Royals righty Alec Marsh

Game #23 - Toronto Blue Jays (13-10) @ Kansas City Royals (13-10) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 3-run triple in a 5-3 win over the Royals

After a tough loss yesterday thanks to subpar performances from relievers Trevor Richards and Nate Pearson, the Blue Jays were looking to start the week with a win as they continued the road trip in Kansas City. The Blue Jays win 6 of the 7 games in last year's season series, outscoring the Royals 33-20. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier got the full day off with Daulton Varsho in CF and Davis Schneider in LF. IKF was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio in 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Bo Bichette tripled scoring Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Cavan Biggio and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the th as Daulton Varsho drilled a 2-run jack to right; also scoring Justin Turner
• The Royals got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Maikel Garcia hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Dairon Blanco
• Brady Singer pitching line: 6IP 5H 5R (all earned) 3BB 5K 107 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 0BB 4K 81 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Royals got one back in the bottom of the 9th as Kyle Isbel annihilated a solo bomb off the right foul pole
• Jordan Romano got the last 3 outs for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Royals 3

My Take:-run 

• Yusei Kikuchi was excellent again, giving up a pair of runs on 5 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over 6 innings.There has to be some concern about his health. For the second straight start, Kikuchi received a visit from trainer Jose Ministral. Kikuchi finished the inning, but did not start the 7th inning, even though he had thrown just 81 pitches. He cruised through the first 5 innings, giving up just one hit and needing just 48 pitches. By contrast, he threw 33 pitches in the 6th inning, and gave up 2 runs on 4 hits. Hopefully whatever is ailing him is minor, but the Blue Jays should make him skip a start if he is injured. The Blue Jays have enough pitchers dealing with injuries with 3 of their top prospects potentially heading for tommy john surgery
• All three relievers gave up a hit and struck out a batter in their inning of work. Jordan Romano's hit against left the ball park. It was very encouraging to see Erik Swanson have a relatively stress free inning
• Daulton Varsho and Bo Bichette were the offensive heroes tonight with both getting bases clearing hits. Bichette hit a triple in the 3rd inning for 3 runs, Varsho went yard for the 6th time in 10 games in the 6th inning.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Davis Schneider and George Springer reached base and all but Springer, Schneider and Justin Turner had a hit
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for two straight wins. Kevin Gausman starts against Royals righty Michael Wacha

Game #143 - Kansas City Royals (44-100) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-63) - game recap

 

Kevin Kiermaier hit a go-ahrad solo HR in a 5-2 comeback win over the Royals  

After a solid win yesterday thanks to the 4RBI effort from George Springer and 8 excellent innings from Kevin Gausman, the Blue Jays were looking for their third straight win and 15th series sweep of the season. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the lineup and served as DH. Whit Merrifield was in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and 15 series sweeps? Here is today's game recap.

Game #142 - Kansas City Royals (44-99) @ Toronto Blue Jays (79-63) - game recap

 

George Springer drove in 4 runs and homered twice in a 5-1 victory over the Royals.

After barely hanging on for the win last night, the Blue Jays were looking for their 26th series win of the season and second straight win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was at 2B and Ernie Clement was at SS. Spencer Horwitz served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and 26 series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• James MacArthur pitching line: 2IP 0H 0R 0BB 1K 23 pitches (15 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as George Springer smacked a solo blast to left- center
• The Royals tied it up in the top of the 5th as Edward Olivares belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Springer singled scoring Alejandro Kirk and Daulton Varsho
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Cavan Biggio doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Springer smacked a solo jack to the opposite field in right-center and into the Royals bullpen
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 10K 105 pitches (76 for strikes)
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Royals 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman pitched 8 excellent innings, allowing a run on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 10. After allowing a 2nd inning leadoff walk, Gausman retired 11 in a row, before Edward Olivares took him deep for the only run against for the Royals. He finished his start off with a flourish, retiring the last 7 batters he faced, including striking out the side in the 8th inning. If only John Schneider would show the lefty starters (Yusei Kikuchi and Hyun-Jin Ryu) the same level of trust he does with Gausman, Jose Berrios and Chris Bassitt, the bullpen may be fresher and the Blue Jays may have a few more wins because the bullpen might not have blown some games due to fatigue from being overworked.
• Jordan Hicks threw a perfect 9th, throwing an efficient 7 pitches.
• George Springer did the damage offensively today, driving in 4 runs, including himself twice on a pair of solo jacks. Cavan Biggio drove in the other run on an RBI double.
• The rookie phenoms had an off-day, going a combined 1-11 with Spencer Horwitz getting the only hit on the day.
• The Blue Jays were 1-6 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jays gained a half game on the Mariners, Astros, Red Sox, and Rangers with today's win. The Mariners, the only game playing at the time of the release of this recap, were down 5-4 against the Rays in the top of the 8th. A win by the Mariners woould move them back a game up on the Blue Jays for the 2nd WC spot. A Mariners loss would mean the two teams would be tied with the Mariners holding the tiebreaker on a better intradivisional record. The Red Sox game had just started, delayed 90 minutes by a rain delay, and a loss by the Red Sox would put them a near insurmountable 7 games back of the Blue Jays for the 3rd WC spot, even with the Red Sox playing in Toronto next weekend for the final three games of the season series. The Rangers and Astros were set to start their games in an hour. A Rangers win would move them 1.5 games back of the Blue Jays for the 3rd WC spot, a loss would drop the Rangers 2.5 games back of the Blue Jays with the two squads opening a 4-game series in Toronto in just over 48 hours. The Astros were hoping to solidify their lead on the AL West division title with a win. If the Mariners and Astros both win or both lose , the Astros remain a half game up on the  Mariners in the AL West. An Astros win and Mariners loss extends the lead over the Mariners to 1.5 games. A Mariners win and Astros loss means the Mariners take over top spot in the AL West by a half game. By the way, the Mariners hold the tiebreaker over the Astros having already won the season series with three games left in the season series in Seattle to open the final week of the season. In short, lots could happen in the wild card standings by the end of the night.
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 3rd straight win and 8th series sweep of the season. Jose Berrios starts against Royals lefty Cole Ragans.

Game #141 - Kansas City Royals (44-98) @ Toronto Blue Jays (78-63) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in a pair and scored once in a 5-4 win over the Royals 

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays begin a crucial homestand that will feature 7 games (4 against the Texas Rangers and 3 vs. the Red Sox) that will go a long way to determining the fate of the Blue Jays season. But first, they start with the Kansas City Royals, who were the Blue Jays first series win of the season. The Blue Jays won 3 of 4 against the Royals, outscoring the Royals 18-13. Bo Bichette was reinstate from the 10 day IL and got the start at SS. Mason Mccoy was optioned back to AAA- ball. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing the last 2 games (Davis Schneider served as DH tonight). Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner. Whit Merrifield got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win and notch their 15th season series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap, 

Game Highlights:

• Colin Snider pitching line: 2IP 1H 0R 1BB 1K 20 pitches (13 for strikes)
• The Royals opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Dairon Blanco whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 5IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 88 pitches (62 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette doubled scoring Kevin Kiermaier 
• The Royals retook the lead in the top of the 7th as Nick Loftin tripled scoring Freddy Fermin
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Bichette singled scoring Tyler Heineman
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled home Bichette and George Springer 
• Two batters later, Ernie Clement singled scoring Guerrero Jr.
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 8th on a fielder's choice hit by Edward Olivares that scored Bobby Witt Jr.
• The Royals got one back in the top of the 9th as Salvador Perez singled scoring Kyle Isbel
• Jordan Romano got the last 4 outs for his 33rd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Royals 4

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi fired 5 innings, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. John Schneider continues to just not trust Yusei Kikuchi, and quite frankly, Kikuchi has more than earned the trust to go an extra inning. Other than a mistake that went over the wall in left, Kikuchi was near flawless and did not have any particularly taxing injuries. I have no issues with having a pitcher warming up if Kikuchi is pushing 90 pitches as he was after 5 innings, but let the man start the 6th inning.
• The bullpen gave up 3 runs on 3 hits while walking 4 and striking out 5 over the last 4 innings. The Royals chipped away at the lead and narrowly missed tying the game or taking the lead, but Kevin Kiermaier came up with a solid running catch.. By the way, Jordan Romano was coming awful close to a balk that would have put runners on 2nd and 3rd.
• Offensively, Bo Bichette instantly impacted the game on his return from the IL, driving in 2 and scoring once. He tied the game twice with clutch hits. Vlad, struggling virtually the whole season, came up huge in the 8th with a 2-run RBI double. He also scored the 5th and final run that turned out to be the game-winning run on a clutch hit by Ernie Clement.
• Clement and Schneider are forcing management's off-season decision. Their play may mean the Blue Jays are content to let Whit Merrifield leave in free agency this winter and perhaps Matt Chapman.
• The Blue Jays were 4-13 with runners in scoring position
• Here's hoping the injury to Royals pitcher Austin Cox, who was hit by a comebacker and collapsed to the ground while running to try and cover 1st base. At first glance, the injury appears to be a potential ACL tear or an achilles tendon rupture. Hopefully it's neither and merely a bone bruise from the comebacker. Scary to watch nonetheless.
• In terms of the wild card race, the Rangers, Red Sox, Astros and Mariners all lost, meaning the Blue Jays gained a crucial game on all three. The best case scenario would see the Blue Jays sweep the Royals and the Rangers be swept by the A's. This would mean the Blue Jays would be up 3.5 games on the Rangers for the final wild card spot and would be facing a slumping Rangers team that would have lost 6 straight. The race is really between the Blue Jays, Rangers and Astros/Mariners vying for the last 2 WC spots. One of the Astros, Rangers and Mariners will be crowned AL West Champ. The Astros are up a game on the Mariners for the AL west title.
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for their 27th series win of the season and 2nd straight win. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Royals righty James MacArthur

Game #7 - Toronto Blue Jays (4-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-6) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6 shutout innings in a 6-3 win over the Royals 

After a solid shutout win on the backs of a strong 7 shutout inning effort from ace Alek Manoah and Vladdy and Matt Chapman driving the offense, the blue jays were looking For the 3rd straight win and their first series win of the season. Kevin Gauman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer has the complete day off with Cavan Biggio in RF. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. What Merrifield was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and their first series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #6 - Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-5) - game recap

 

Alek Manoah threw 7 innings in a 3-0 shutout win over the Royals

After a solid win thanks to a solid start from Blue Jays fifth starter Yusei Kikuchi, The Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games which would be their first multiple win streak of the season. Ace Alek Manoah made his second start of the season. He was looking to bounce back from his career worst opening day start where he allowed five runs on nine hits over 3.1 innings. Alejandro Kirk gott the start behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Brandon Belt served as DH tonight and Cavan Biggio was at 2nd base. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and guarantee a series split against the Royals this week? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #5- Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-4) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 5 solid innings in a 4-1 win over the Royals. Kikuchi was the first Blue Jays starting pitcher to get credit for a win.

After a mediocre start by Jose Berrios in a game that saw Bo Bichette finally get the Blue Jays on the team HR board, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series vs. the Royals and snap the 2-game skid.Yusei Kikuchi, who was mostly a wild and ineffective disaster in 2022, will be looking to parlay an excellent spring training into the regular season. Danny Jansen was behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Whit Merrifield in RF. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #4 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-3) @ Kansas City Royals (1-3) - game recap

Bo Bichette hit the Blue Jays first home run of the season in a 9-5 loss to the Royals

 

After a wild first weekend that saw the Blue Jays win the season opener in a game that saw multiple lead changes and an uncharacteristic start from ace Alek Manoah, who could not get out of the 4th inning, and then lose the second game when they were facing a pitcher that walked seven batters (The Blue Jays were no hit until Kevin Kiermaier smacked a 1-out single in the 7th inning) and a regrettable Sunday debut for Chris Bassitt that saw the sinker-baller get torched for nine runs over 3.1innings, including four that went over the wall for home runs, the Blue Jays opened a 4-game series against the Kansas City Royals. Last season, the Blue Jays were 5-2 against the Royals, outscoring KC 38-19. Jose Berrios got the start. Berrios was hoping to avoid a repeat of last season's opening day start where he could not escape the first inning. Alejandro Kirk was behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Brandon Belt at 1B. Kevin Kiermaier was back in CF after a day off yesterday with Daulton Varsho in LF. Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the week with a win and even their overall record? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #93- Kansas City Royals (36-56) @ Toronto Blue Jays (50-43) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in a pair of runs, scored one himself and had a 3rd run score off a fielding error on a sharp grounder hit by him in a 4-2 come-from-behind victory over the Royals 

After a huge come-from behind win yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking to finish the unofficial first half with 3 straight wins. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Bradley Zimmer in CF. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins? Here is today's game recap. 

Game #92- Kansas City Royals (36-55) @ Toronto Blue Jays (49-43) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in the winning run in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the Royals in 10 innings 

After a huge win over the Royals on the back of 3-run home runs from Teo and Matt Chapman. Alek Manoah also contributed with 7 strong innings. Every Blue Jays starter had at least one hit. Today, the Blue Jays were looking to keep it going with their second straight win. The Blue Jays and Royals swapped pitchers with the Blue Jays receiving lefty Foster Griffin and the Royals receiving righty Jonatan Bernal. Griffin was optioned to AAA-ball. Sergio Romo was DF'A. Jeremy Beasley was recalled from AAA-ball. Max Castillo got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Alejandro Kirk served as DH today. Santiago Espinal was back at 2B after the day off yesterday. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is today's game recap.