Game #56 - Miami Marlins (26-31) @ Toronto Blue Jays (27-29) - game recap

 

After a win thanks to a 6-run 6th inning capped by a Jesus Sanchez grand slam?, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 straight wins and notch their 7th series win and 2nd season series win of the season. Tanner Andrews was optioned to AAA-ball and lefty Aaron Voth was added to the big league roster. Alejandro Kirk was transferred to the 60 day IL. The Blue Jays also acquired righty Connor SeaWorld from the Tigers for minor league lefty Juanmi Vasquez.  Jose Berrios was transferred to the 60-day IL. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate.  George Springer got the full day off with Jesus Sanchez serving as DH. Vlad was back in the lineup after missing a couple of days after getting drilled in the elbow by a pitch in the right elbow. Nathan Lukes got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jaysmake it 2 straight wins and notch their 7th series win and 2nd season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Otto Lopez singled scoring Xavier Edwards
• Eury Perez pitching line: 4IP 3H 0R 0BB 9K 73 pitches (48 for strikes)
• The Blue jays tied it up in the bottom of the 5th as Nathan Lukes doubled scoring Tyler Heineman
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 5K 95 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in right-field and into the Marlins bullpen 
• Tyler Rogers pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman battled through 5 innings, giving up s run on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5. He was working his way in and out of jams most of the day. Also not his most efficient outing, needing almost 100 pitches to get 15 outs. He seems to be having a regression year. Hopefully his trajectory doesn't continue in this path.
• The bullpen threw 4 scoreless innings, scattering 5 hits, walking none and striking out 3. I've said all along that Tyler Rogers should be the closer.  He's been the Blue Jays best pitcher and doesn't mess around when he's on the mound. Jeff Hoffman, who went 2 innings, was credited with the win. 
• The offense did just enough to win the day. Nathan Lukes came through with a clutch hit in the 5th and Kazuma Okamoto went deep to the opposite field in right-center. Despite a sore elbow, Vlad was the most effective hitter with 2 hits and drawing a walk. Heck he even managed to steal a base
• The Marlins were successful in the only ABS challenge of the day. 
• The Blue jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Baltimore to face their division rivals in the Orioles for the first time this season. The Blue jays took the season series last year 7-6, but the Orioles outscored the Blue Jays 80-70. Patrick Corbin starts against Orioles righty and old friend Chris Bassitt. 

Game #55 - Miami Marlins (26-30) @ Toronto Blue Jays (26-29) - game recap

 

Jesus Sanchez hit his first career grand slam in an 8-1 rout of the Marlins

After an ugly loss due to some sloppy defense, a bad day for the pitchers and the inept offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season. It was bullpen day with Brayden Fisher first man on the bump and Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate.  Vlad remained out with a sore elbow from a hit by pitch Sunday so Lenyn Sosa got another start at 1B. Daulton Varsho was back in CF after a complete day off yesterday.  Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid and avoid their 9th series loss and 4th season series loss of the season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• Brayden Fisher pitching line: 1IP 1H 0R 0BB 1K 12 pitches (9 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement whacked a solo blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 3rd as Kazuma Okamoto singled scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Marlins got one back in the top of the 5th as Heiberto Hernandez singled scoring Jakob Marsee
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Yohendrick Pinago belted a solo jack to straightaway center\
• Five batters later, George Springer singled scoring Brandon Valenzuela 
• Two batters later, Jesus Sanchez hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in right; also scoring Lenyn Sosa, George Springer and Varsho
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Brayden Fisher did his part in getting through the 1st inning, allowing a hit, walking none and striking out 1 on 12 pitches. Still not a huge fan of the use of the opener for  several reasons. Firs, pitchers are very much creatures of habit and there are definitely different routines they do to get themselves ready for a game. Also you burn a reliever right away that could have been used in a different way. Third, what happens if the reliever can't get through the 1st inning and now your bulk guy has to come into the game to escape the jam or, as the Blue Jays are facing, there are 2 spots in the rotation and you only have 3 reliable healthy starters. There are already so many injuries to pitchers and you really need 5 traditional starters that can eat innings as opposed to a bullpen game. 
• The rest of the bullpen held the Marlins to a run on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over the last 8 innings. Spencer Miles was credited with the win and Adam Macko and Yariel Rodriguez both retired every batter they faced
• The bats came through big time starting with Ernie Clement going deep and capped off with Jesus Sanchez crushing a grand slam. From top to bottom the lineup raked tonight. They say hitting is contagious and hopefully this is the start of the offence busting out 
• Every Blue Jays starter except Andres Gimenez and Lenyn Sosa had a hit and all but Gimenez either scored a run or drove in a run
• And the injury bug keeps on biting the Blue Jays in the butt. This time Spencer Miles was hit in the leg by a comebacker and four Blue Jays were hit by pitches. Everyone was able to finish the game, but the ice packs will be used plenty tonight
• The Marlins were a perfect 3-0 on ABS challenges and Brandon Valenzuela was unsuccessful on the Blue Jays only ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 3-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the rubber match of this series as the Blue Jays try to extend the winning streak to 2 games and notch their 8th series win and 3rd season series win of the season. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Marlins righty Eury Perez

Game #131 Toronto Blue Jays (76-55) @ Miami Marlins (61-69) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho hit a 3-run HR in a  5-3 loss to the Marlins

After eking out a win yesterday thanks to a clutch base hit and some heads up defense from Bo Bichette, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season. Mason Fluharty was optioned to AAA-ball and Paxton Schultz was recalled from AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Eric Wagaman hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Marlins added 3 runs in the bottom of the 5th as Jakob Marsee tripled scoring Wagaman, Javier Sanoja and Xavier Edwards 
• The Blue Jays got 3 back in the top of the 7th as Daulton Varsho hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Ty France and Bo Bichette 
• Eury Perez pitching line: 6IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 94 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 7K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the bottom half of the inning as Agustin Ramirez singled scoring Marsee 
• Tyler Phillips pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Marlins 5 Blue Jays 3

My Take: 

• Kevin Gausman battled through 6 innings, giving up 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. It was the bottom of the order that gave him the most trouble today with number 8 hitter Eric Wagaman taking Gausman deep. Wagaman and Blue Jays killer Javier Sanoja getting on in the 5th, along with leadoff man Xavier Edwards for Jakob Marsee to bring them all home to add three runs. Gausman has a tendency to be inconsistent, which could be a concern come playoff time where you need to limit the runs against. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 1 over the last 2 innings. It was unfortunate timing that Yariel Rodrigueze ceded a run after the Blue Jays scored 3 runs in the top half of the inning. Most of the relievers have been struggling this month, which could be a sign of overuse catching up on them. It's possible Alek Manoah could be a long man out of the bullpen come September. The closer's role will be Jeff Hoffman's through the postseason. The Blue Jays just don't have any options that are reliable enough, other than Yimi Garcia, who may not be an optom as he deals with ulnar nerve impingement
• Daulton Varsho brought the Blue Jays close with a 3-run bomb in the 7th and Vlad came up with a chance give the Blue Jays the lead in the 8th, but popped out to end the inning. Bo Bichette was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times.
• The Blue Jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• Standings wise, the Yankees and Red Sox both gained a half game in the standings with the loss and one will gain a further half game later tonight when the Bosox and Yankees face off tonight in the Bronx. The Red Sox could be as few as 4 games back of the Blue Jays for 1st in the AL East. If the Yankees prevail tonight, they'll be 5.5 games back for 1st in the AL East. Both the Tigers and Astros lost, keeping the Blue Jays 4 games up on the Astros for the 2nd bye into the ALDS and 2 games back of the Tigers for 1st in the AL and home field advantage through at least the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home to begin a week long homestand, starting tomorrow against the Twins. The Blue Jays took the series in Minnesota back at the beginning of June with both teams scoring 14 runs. Max Scherzer starts against Twins righty Joe Ryan.

Game #130 Toronto Blue Jays (76-54) @ Miami Marlins (60--69) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette drove in the winning run as the Blue Jays held on to edge the Marlins 7-6 in 12 innings

After a solid win thanks to an excellent Blue Jay debut for Shane Bieber and a 3-RBI, 2 runs scored effort from Daulton Varsho, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as last night. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays open the scoring in the top of the 3rd as George Springer singled scoring Nathan Lukes
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Alejandro Kirk doubled scoring Addison Barger 
• Three batters later,  Bo Bichette was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Myles Straw 
• Janson Junk pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 3K 92 pitches (65 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Troy Johnston singled scoring Liam Hicks
• A batter later, Javier Sanoja doubled scoring Eric Wagaman. Johnston was thrown out at home on the play
• Two batters later, Otto Lopez singled scoring Sanoja
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6.1IP 4H 2R (both earned) 0BB 8K 81 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Marlins tied it up in the bottom of the 9th as Sanoja singled scoring Derek Hill
• The Blue jays retook the lead in the top of the 10th on a sac fly by Ty France that scored Bichette
• The Marlins tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Jakob Marsee doubled scoring Lopez
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 11th as Andre Gimenez singled scoring Straw 
• The Marlins tied it in the bottom held of the inning as Sanoja singled scoring Hill
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the top of the 12th a Bichette singled home Springer
• Brandon Little pitched a scoreless 12th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Marlins 6 (12 innings)

My Take:

• Jose Berrios had a nice bounceback game, firing 6.1 strong innings,  giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 8. Typically strikeouts tend to drive up the pitch count, but Berrios was averaging about 10 pitches an inning after 6 innings. Having longer waits between innings might have hurt any momentum he had. A caveat, he was facing a weaker lineup than he will be his next scheduled start against the Brewers.
• The bullpen was lit up for 4 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 5 over the last 5.1 innings. The bullpen blew the save in three consecutive innings and it took a heads up play from Bo Bichette, who threw out the ghost runner at second base, to prevent a 4th blown save. There hs to be angst among the Blue Jays coaching staff over the ability of Jeff Hoffman to be the closer. Yes, he has 28 saves on the season, but he has an ERA over 4.00 and he has a tendency to walk batters. Trouble is, Yimi Garcia can't be counted on to return to health this season. Seranthony Dominquez retired every batter he faced, but his wildness isn't a good trait for a closer. Louis Varland nearly blew the 4-run lead in the 7th inning and I think the team likes him in the setup role. I still think Pete Walker is the scapegoat if the Blue Jays get bounced in the playoffs. There have been too many occasions where mound visits have not helped the struggling pitcher and the opposition immediately capitalizes. Bullpen decisions have been suspect and pitchers need a new voice leading them.
• Kudos to the Blue Jays offense for being clutch in 3 straight innings to give the Blue Jays a chance to win this game. George Springer (2 runs scored, 2 RBI), Bo Bichette (game-winning RBI, scored twice), Alejandro Kirk (RBI double) and TY France (clutch sac fly in the 10th) led the way offensively
• The Blue Jays were 4-16 with runners in scoring position
• With the Red Sox blowing out the Yankees, the division lead remains at 5 games over the Bosox with the Yanks falling to 6.5 games back. The Tigers also won earlier to maintain a 2-game lead over the Blue Jays for the best record in the AL and home field advantage through at least the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their 10th series sweep and 6th season series sweep of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Marlins righty Eury Perez

Game #129 Toronto Blue Jays (75-54) @ Miami Marlins (60-68) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho drove in 3 runs and scored twice in a 5-2 victory over the Marlins

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays continued the road trip in Miami. The Marlins swept the season series last year, outscoring the Blue Jays 26-7. Shane Bieber made his Blue Jays debut, coming off the 60 day IL due to tommy John surgery (Braydon Fisher was optioned to AAA-ball) with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad remained out of the lineup with a sore hamstring. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Ernie Clement wa(s at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays start the wcekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsho doubled scoring Bo Bichette
• A batter later, Ty France singled home Alejandro Kirk and Varsho
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 2nd as Javier Sanoja belted a solo jack to left-center
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Varsho hammered a 2-run bomb to right-center; also scoring Kirk 
• Ryan Gusto pitching line: 6IP 7H 5R (all earned) 1BB 0K 90 pitches (60 for strikes) 
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 0BB 9K 87 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Maximo Acosta hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a scoreless 9th for his 28th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Marlins 2

My Take:

• Shane Bieber was excellent in his Blue Jays debut, and first big league game since April 2, 2024, firing 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 2 hits, while walking none and striking out 9. Bieber made one mistake in the 2nd inning that went over the wall for a home run and retired 11 in a row after that mistake. The Blue Jays couldn't have asked for anything more. He looks like a steal a the moment, even if he is only a Blue Jay for a couple of months
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Brandon Little retired every batter he faced.
• Daulton Varsho (3RBI, including a 2-run HR, 2 runs scored) and Ty France drove the offence today.
• Every Blue Jays starter except Nathan Lukes and Andre Gimenez reached base at least once and all but Lukes, Gimenez and Ernie Clement had at least one hit
• The Blue Jays were 2-3 with runners in scoring position
• The Red Sox, Astros and Tigers all won today, meaning the Blue Jays have a 5 game lead over the Red Sox and 5.5 game lead over the Yankees for first in the AL East. They have a 4 game cushion over the Astros for the 3rd division leader spot, which would mean a bye into the divisional round and home field advantage through at least the ALDS. They are 2 games back of the Tigers for best record in the entire MLB and home field advatage through the world series.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streaak to 2 games and notch their 21st series win and 16th season series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Marlins righty Janson Junk

Game #162 Miami Marlins (62-100) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-88) - game recap-

 

Luis De Los Santos scored the Blue Jays final run of the season in a 3-1 loss to the Marlins.

After a blowout loss to the Marlins, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time this season, avoid being swept in a season series for the first and only time and end the season on a winning note. Ryan Burr got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Steward Berroa in RF. Jonatan Clase was in CF and Joey Loperfido was in LF. Luis De Los Santos was at the hot corner, Could the Blue Jays snap the 2-game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time this season, avoid being swept in a season series for the first and only time and end the season on a winning note? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonah Bride singled scoring Jake Burger and Xavier Edwards
• Ryan Burr pitching line: 1IP 3H 2R (both earned) 0BB 1K 30 pitches (18 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the top of the 6th as Otto Lopez doubled scoring Bride
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a groundout hit by Joey Loperfido that scored Luis De Los Santos
• Ryan Weathers pitching line: 6.1IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 6K 97 pitches (57 for strikes) 
• Anthony Bender got the last 4 outs for his 1st save of the season`
• Final score: Marlins 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Ryan  Burr threw an inning, giving up 2 runs on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 1. To be sure, the Blue Jays need to sign/acquire at least one more starting pitcher. Ryan Burr is more suited to a bullpen role or long man role.
• The bullpen gave up a final run on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out seven over 8 innings, Brett De Gauss and Btandon Eisert both retired every batter they faced. The bullpen is the single biggest need the Blue Jays have.
• Offensively, Luis De Los Santos scored the only and final Blue Jays run of the season. Vlad fell a hit short of 200 (he was 0-2 and drew 2 walks). Steward Berroa was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times, collecting a pair of hits
• The Blue Jays were 1-8 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the offseason. The season has mercifully come to an end and now the work can begin with building the team for 2025 - starting with figuring out who, if anyone (coaches, Schneider or GM) gets fired.

Game #161 Miami Marlins (61-100) @ Toronto Blue Jays (74-87) - game recap

 

Nathan Lukes hit his first career HR in an 8-1 loss to the Marlins

After a blowout loss yesterday thanks to a bad day of pitching, the lue Jays were looking to even the series and avoid their 27th series loss of the season and 19th season series loss of the season. Lefty Easton Lucas was optioned to the spring training complex and righty Nick Robertson was recalled from AAA-ball. Yariel Rodriguez got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Joey Loperfido got the start in CF. Davis Schneider was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays even the series and avoid their 27th series loss and 19th season series loss? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Jonah Bride singled scoring Xavier Edwards\
• A batter later, Griffin Conine doubled scoring Jesus Sanchez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes smacked a solo blast to right. It was his first career HR
• The Marlins added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Dane Myers doubled scoring Jake Burger and Sanchez
• Two batters later, Jhonny Perada singled home Conine. Myers was thrown out at home on the play.
• Yariel Rodriguez pitching line: 4H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 82 pitches (54 for strikes)
• Xzavion Curry pitching line: 5IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 1K 65 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Marlins added 3 runs in the top of the 8th as Myers hammered a 3-run bomb just over the wall in straightaway center; also scoring Sanchez and Conine
• Final score: Marlins 8 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Yariel Rodriguez pitched into the 6th inning, giving up 3 runs on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6, He had a rough 1st inning, needing 30 pitches to get through it and he put the Blue Jays 2 runs down. It looked like his season might end on an injury removal when Jose Minstrel noticed somthing in warm-ups prior to the 4th inning. Luckily he was ok to continue and had an out streak of 12 outs. Rodriguez finished the 2024 season with a 1-8 record and a 4.47ERA in 21 starts. 
• The bullpen gave up a further three runs (all charged to Genesis Cabrera on a 3-run HR he gave up). Nick Robertson was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced
• Offensively, the lone highlight was Nathan Lukes belting his first career HR to halve the deficit. George Springer was the only Blue Jay to reach base multiple times and Ernie Clement got the other hit. Vlad remains a hit shy of 200.
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the last game of the season. The Blue Jays try to snap the 2 game skid, avoid being swept for the 4th time and avoid being swept in a season series for the only time this season and end the season on a winning note. It will be a bullpen game for the Blue Jays, who decided not to start Chris Bassitt, who was set to make the start. The Marlins will counter with lefty Ryan Weathers

Game #76- Toronto Blue Jays (41-35) @ Miami Marlins (42-33) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman threw 6 solid innings in a 6-3 win over the Marlins

After edging the Marlins last night thanks to a pair of clutch 8th inning base hits, the Blue Jays were looking for their 2nd straight win, 14th series win of the season and 6th season series win of the season. Brandon Belt was reinstated from the 10- day IL and served as DH today.  Spencer Horwitz was optioned back to AAA-ball. Bo Bichette was scratched from the lineup late with a sore right thumb (Santiago Espinal took his spot at SS). Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Whit Merrifield was in LF and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins, 14 series wins and 6 season series wins? Here is today's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Cavan Biggio doubled scoring Matt Chapman
• Two batters later, Kevin Kiermaier singled scoring Biggio
• Two batters later, George Springer singles scoring Santiago Espinal and Kiermaier
• A batter later, Whit Merrifield singled home Springer
• The Marlins got a pair back in the bottom of the 4th as Garrett Cooper doubled scoring Bryan De La Cruz and Jesus Sanchez
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Garrett Hampson singled home Jonathan Davis
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 6IP 8H 3R (all earned) 1BB 6K 100 pitches (72 for strikes)
• Sandy Alcantara pitching line: 7IP 10H 5R (all earned) 2BB 6K 96 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 8th as Chapman smashed a solo blast to left 
• Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 22nd save of the season
• Final score Blue Jays 6 Marlins 3

My Take:

• With the bullpen running on fumes, Kevin Gausman pitched into the 7th inning,  giving up 3 runs on 8 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. Since Alek Manoah was sent back to the Florida development league two weeks ago, the Blue Jays have effectively been going with a 4-man rotation and a bullpen day every 5th day. Unfortunately, Chris Bassitt has had a couple of rough starts lately and Jose Berrios had a klunker a couple of days ago. Luckily Gausman, who has been the most reliable and consistent starter this season,  was able to give the Blue Jays 18 outs today. 
• The bullpen gave up a hit and a walk over the last three innings. Erik Swanson and Trevor Richards were perfect in their inning of work
• Offensively, the Blue Jays had a big inning where they scored 5 runs on 6 hits. Matt Chapman provided a late insurance run when he went yard in the 8th. 
• The Blue Jays were 5-10 with runners in scoring position.
• Up next, after an off day tomorrow, the Blue Jays begin a 9- game, 10- day home stand that starts Friday against the Oakland A's.  The Blue Jays and A's split the season series last year with the A's outscoring the Blue Jays 22-19. The Blue Jays have not set their rotation for the series, James Kaprielian will start for the A's Friday night. 

Game #74- Toronto Blue Jays (39-35) @ Miami Marlins (42-31) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette had a pair of hits in an 11-0 shutout loss to the Marlins

After brutally blowing a 6-run lead for a father's day loss, the Blue Jays flew to Miami to begin a three game set that began tonight. They were looking to snap a 2-game skid. In 2021, the Blue Jays swept the 4 game season series, outscoring the Marlins 16-8. Alejandro Kirk was placed on the 10 day IL with a left hand laceration.  Bowden Francis was optioned to AAA-ball. Tyler Heineman and Trent Thornton were recalled from AAA- ball Jose Berrios got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Matt Chapman was back in the lineup and at the hot corner after the full day off yesterday.  Cavan Biggio got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the two game skid? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Jorge Soler bashed a 2- run blast to left-center; also scoring Luis Arraez
• The batters later, Garrett Cooper singled scoring Jesus Sanchez
• The Marlins added a run in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Soler that scored Jacob Stallings
• Two batters later,  Jonathan Davis skid on a groundout hit by Sanchez
• Bryan Hoeing pitching line: 4IP 3H 0R 0BB 5K 54 pitches (36 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4IP 8H 5R (all earned) 1BB 4K 100 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Joey Wendle singled scoring Sanchez
• A batter later,  Jon Berti singled home Cooper
• Two batters later,  Arreaz singled scoring Wendle and Berti
• Two batters later,  Bryan De La Cruz singled home Stallings
• The Marlins added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Jacob Amaya singled scoring Garrett Hampson
• Final score: Marlins 11 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Jose Berrios was roughed up for 5 runs on 8 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over 4 innings.  His counterpart,  Bryan Hoeing pitched the same number of innings throwing half the pitches. Berrios is an inconsistent pitcher who can look like an all star one start and look like he belongs in the minors the next start.  Tonight,  it seems like Berrios got in a jam but really didn't have a pitch working to get out of the jam. He was very inefficient with his pitches,  hitting 100 pitches in just 4 innings.  The Blue Jays need pitchers to pitch deeper into games,  otherwise an already overworked bullpen won't be that effective or you'll see relievers getting hurt because they are being used too much
• The bullpen wasn't much better tonight, giving up a further 6 runs on 11 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. To be fair, one of those runs came against position player Ernie Clement. Five of the runs were charged to nate Pearson,  who managed to get just one out while giving up 4 hits and a walk. Mitch White came in and gave up two hits for three of the runs charged to Pearson.  Trent Thornton, making his season debut,  gave up 2 hits over 2 innings and was easily the most effective of the relievers tonight
• Offensively,  Bo Bichette was the only one with multiple hits on the night. George Springer, Daulton Varsho, Spencer Horwitz, Danny Jansen and Kevin Kiermaier each had one hit
• The Blue Jays were 0-6 with runners in scoring position
• This has to be the worst effort of the season.  It's pretty hard to do much worse than a shutout blowout loss
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap the three game skid.  Yusei Kikuchi starts against Marlins righty Eury Perez

Game #72 Toronto Blue Jays (37-35) @ Miami Marlins (31-42) - game recap

 

Robbie Ray threw 6 strong innings in a 3-1 victory over the Marlins

After a late inning win over the Marlins, the Blue Jays wrapped up the road trip and season series with the Mami-based MLB squad. Same lineup as yesterday except Riley Adams was behind the plate and Robbie Ray was on the bump and Randal Grichuk was in RF and Teoscar Hernandez was in LF. This recap's going to be a wee bit shorter as I did not get time to start it before I left and I got a zoom meeting for my volunteer job in less than an hour. Could the Blue Jays complete the season series sweep of the Marlins and win their 4th game in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Teoscar Hernandez doubled scoring Bo Bichette 
• A batter later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a groundout by George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Bichette singled scoring Marcus Semien
• Trevor Rogers pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 6K 83 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom of the 6th as Starling Marte hammered a solo bomb to- left-center
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 6K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
• Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 5th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 3 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Robbie Ray had a solid game, allowing 1 run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 6. He kept the Marlins to a solo shot and 3 singles, a walk and a fielding error by Cavan Biggio. Only one Marlin got into scoring position.
• The bullpen was also solid, allowing just a 9th inning double that was stranded at 3rd base. They combined to strike out 3 over the final 3 innings
• Tonight, the Blue Jays jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the 1st inning and added a run in the 5th
• Every starter except George Springer (although he drew a 9th inning walk and got an RBI on a ground out in the 1st), Riley Adams and Robbie Ray had at least one hit tonight
• Springer fielded two balls today
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a four game series vs. the Orioles. They took 2 of 3 in Baltimore last weekend. Anthony Kay gets the start against Oroles righty Dean Kremer

Game #71 Toronto Blue Jays (36-35) @ Miami Marlins (31-40) - game recap

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. drove in the winning run in the 9th as the Blue Jays edged the Marlins 2-1 

At long last, George Springer made his return from the IL after missing 67 games with a quad injury. He came back as DH for 4 games but reinjured the quad. Signed to a huge $150 million in the off-season, the Blue Jays lineup will be that much more lethal. Springer was in CF and batted 5th today. Alek Manoah was suspended 5 games for throwing at Orioles 3B Maikel Franco and causing a bench-clearing brawl. He's appealing the decision. Manager Charlie Montoyo was suspended a game and served the suspension tonight. Nate Pearson strained his right groin. Jacob Barnes was also added to the roster. Rowdy Tellez and Jonathan Davis were optioned to AAA. Ross Stripling got the start. Could the Blue Jays make it three wins in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Jesus Sanchez hammered a solo bombto dead center 
• The Blue Jaysa tied the game in the top of the 6th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled scoring Bo Bichette 
• Ross Stripling pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 7K91 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Sandy Alcantara pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 86 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in thw top of the 9th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. doubled scoring Cavan Biggio
• Jordan Romano pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Ross Stripling was excellent, allowing a run on 2 hits while walking 1 and striking out 7. He retired the first 5 batters he faced and was consistently pitching to contact. 
• George Springer's first game back was encouraging in that he completed the game. He was 0-4 at the plate and stranded 2 runners. He did not get an opportunity to test the quad in the field as no balls were hit his way, other than the HR he had no chance on
• The Blue Jays bullpen was rock solid, allowing 1 hit in the 9th that was erased by Reese McGuire throwing out Starling Marte at 2nd base.
• The Blue Jays were 2-5 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 4 straight wins and a season series sweep over the Marlins. Tomorrow will be a battle of the lefties as Robbie Ray pitches against Marlins southpaw Trevor Rogers

Game #54 Miami Marlins (24-30) @ Toronto Blue Jays (29-25) - game recap

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored the game-winning run as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Marlins 6-5

After a solid win yesterday on the strength of a strong 6-inning start from Robbie Ray and a 3-run blast from Vlad as part of a 4-hit day. AJ Cole (stiff neck) was placed on the 10-day IL ith a stiff neck. Righty Jeremy Beasley was recalled from the Alt squad.Alek Manoah made his second career start. Vlad got the half day off, serving as the DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1B. Could the Blue Jays sweep the mini two-game series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Corey Dickerson hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Randal Grichuk smacked a solo blast to left-center 
• The Marlins took the lead in the top of the 3rd on a 2-run blast to left-center by Jazz Chisholm Jr.; also scoring Jose Devers
• Two batters later, Jesus Aguilar lined a screamer to left for a solo shot
• Alek Manoah pitching line: 3.1IP 4H 4R (all earned) 3BB 5K 74 pitches (50 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th as Grichuk bashed a solo shot to left
• Pablo Lopez pitching line: 4IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 9K 90 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the top of the 7th as Starlini Marte tattooed a laser beam to dead center 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th on a fielding error by Chisholm on a ball hit by Teoscar Hernandez that scored Marcus Semien
• The Blue Jays got two more back in the bottom of the 9th as Bichette tripled scoring Jonathan Davis and Semien
• Three batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. scored on a sac fly hit by Joe Panik
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Marlins 5

My Take:

• Alek Manoah's second career start wasn't quite as successful as his MLB debut, where he threw 6 shutout innings. Manoah was taken deep three times, and gave up 4 runs on 4 hits while walking three and striking out 5. He started out well enough, retiring the first four batters he faced before Corey Dickerson went yard. He'll need time as he faces the veteran hitters for the 1st tuue
• Weather was a big factor in this one. It was raining, at times heavy, throughout the game. By the time 8th inning was done, the playing surface was starting to look very unplayable. That's a big safety issue if a player were to slip on a wet field or if a bat came flying out of a hand or if the pitcher had the ball slip out of his hand. If I'm the Marlins, I'm protesting the game not being stopped
• Randal Grichuk (2 soloe HR) and Bo Bichette 2 RBI drove the offense today.
• Every Blue Jays starterr, except Joe Panik and Teoscar Hernandez had at least one hit 
• Fifteen strikeouts is good if you are pitching and bad if you are batting. Unfortunately, the Blue Jays fell into the latter category tonight. Bichette ans Hernandez both struck out 3 times
• The Blue Jays were a dismal 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• The bullpen did wel, allowing 1 run (solo HR), another hit and a walk while striking out 5 over the final 5.2 innings
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open up a weekend series vs. the Astros. George Springer will not face his former team this season. He had just reinjured the quad and was back on the IL when the Blue Jays were in Houston, The Astros won 2/3 back in May. Friday will be a battle of the aces with Hyun-jin Ryu pitches against Zack Greinke
• 
  

Game #53 Miami Marlins (24-29) @ Toronto Blue Jays (28-25) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. cruahed a 3-run HR in a 5-1 victory over the Marlins

After seeing their beloved Maple Leafs blow a 3-1 series lead, the Blue Jays suddenly saw their fan base surge with hockey fans turning into baseball fans for the summer. Today, the Blue Jays began a mini two-game series against the Miami Marlins.Last season, the Blue Jays an Marlins split the 4 games with the Marlins outscoring the Blue Jays 22-20. Tonight, Robbie Ray got the start. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing Sunday (Rowdy Tellez served as DH today). Reese McGuire was behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays open the week with a win? Here is tonight's game  recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 4th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hammered a three-run bomb to left; also scoring Marcus Semien and Bo Bichette
• The Marlins got one back in the top of the 5th as Starling Marte doubled scoring Luis Marte 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom half of the inning on a groundout by Teoscar Hernandez that scored Semien
• Sandy Alcentra pitching line: 6IP 9H 4R (all earned) 0BB 4K 89 pitches (66 for strikes)
• Robbie Ray pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 9K 96 pitches (64 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. bashed a solo blast to left-center 
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Robbie Ray threw six solid innings, giving up a run on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 9. It was a good bounce back from his last start when he allowed 5 runs (4 earned) vs. the Yankees. The key for him is attacking the hitters 
• It was the Vlad show today. Guerrero Jr. got 4 hits, including a 3-run HR that ignited the offence and was a triple short of the cycle. I can see him being the next Blue Jay to hit for the cycle. He just needs the right ballpark (Fenway park maybe with it's weird triangle in CF?)
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr. also had a good day at the plate with 3 hits, including a solo HR
• Marcus Semien is doing everything he can to remain the leadoff hitter if/when George Springer ever plays. He had 2 hits and scored twice
• The bullpen was solid, giving up a hit and 2 walks (all in the 9th inning by Jordan Romano) and striking out 5 over the final 3 innings
• Up next, the Blue Jays wrap up the mini series vs. the Marlins. Alek Manoah makes his second career start,. He'll be pitching against Marlins righty Pablo Lopez

Game 53! Fish @ Birds

 

Game #35 Toronto Blue Jays (19-16) @ Miami Marlins (16-16) - game recap

Hyun-jin Ryu threw 6 strong innings in a 2-1 victory over the Marlins

After a heartbreaking late game loss to the Marlins last night, the Blue Jays turned to ace Hyun-jin Ryu to right the ship and snap the 2 game losing streak. Lots of lineup changes for this one. Vlad received the complete day, while Randal Grichuk got the half day off, serving as the DH, While Rowdy Tellez was at 1B and Cavan Biggio played in CF. Newcomer Jonathan Pillar was at 2B with Espinal Santiago getting the start at SS. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after a day off last night. Could the Blue Jay split the series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 5th as Lourdes Gurriel Jr. lined a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Rowdy Tellez
• The Marlins got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Garrett Cooper singled scoring Jon Berti
• Hyun-jin Ryu pitching line: 6IP 5H 1R (earned) 2BB 8K 99 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Sixto Sanchez pitching line: 7IP 6H 2R (both earned) 0BB 5K 79 pitches (56 for strikes)
• Anthony Bass pitched a perfect 9th for his 4th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Marlins 1

My Take:

• Hyun-Jin Ryu continued his impressive start to his Blue Jays career, pitching 6 innings, allowing a run on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 8. He and Danny Jansen have formed a nice tandem and have figured out good game plans together
• Jonathan Pillar had a night to forget. He was thrown out at 2nd base trying to stretch a single into a double in the 1st inning, he threw the ball away in the 2nd inning on an attempted fielder's choice and he was picked off at 3rd base to end the 4th inning. Charlie Montoyo should be sitting him down and telling him to relax and let the game come to him instead of trying to force plays.
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was also picked off on a wild pitch by Sixto Sanchez in the 2nd inning. He started going to 2nd base and quickly slammed on the brakes and tried to come back to 1st base, but he had strayed too far
• The bullpen was excellent tonight, allowing 1 hit and walking one (and both those came in the 7th inning)
• Up next, the Blue Jays head north to Boston for an uber rare 5-game series (Friday will be a double header). Taijuan Walker makes his second start as a Blue Jay. He threw 6 shutout innings in his last start. The Red Sox will counter with lefty Martin Perez

Game #34 Toronto Blue Jays (18-16) @ Miami Marlins (16-15) - game recap

 

Vlad hit a pair of singles in a 3-2 loss to the Marlins

As expected after a busy trade deadline yesterday, the Blue Jays made a series of moves to create space on the active roster. Jacob Waguespack was optioned and added to the taxi squad. Jonathan Davis, Alejandro Kirk and Patrick Murphy were added to the taxi squad. Brandon Drury, Daniel Vogelbach and Sam Gaviglio were all DFA'd. Jonathan Villar and Robbie Ray were added to the active roster. There were also several injury updates. Trent Thornton underwent surgery to remove loose bodies from hos elbow and is done for the season. Bo Bichette did some sprints, took ground balls and hit in the batting cage Tuesday. Ken Giles threw a bullpen to live hitters and felt well after. He'll do it again Saturday in Boston. Finally Nate Pearson progressed to throwing 120 feet. For today, Julian Merryweather got the start in a bullpen day for the Blue Jays. Charlie Montoyo thinks the team will ease newcomer Robbie Ray in with a relief appearance, before likely joining the rotation. Villar jumped right in the deep end, batting 3rd and playing SS tonight. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Rowdy Tellez at 1B. Derek Fisher was in RF and Reese McGuire got the start behind the plate. Could the Blue Jays start the 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 on a groundout by Jonathan Villar that scored Cavan Biggio
• Elieser Hernandez pitching line: 2IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 2K 39 pitches (24 for strikes)
• Julian Merryweather pitching line: 2IP 0H 0R 1BB 3K 31 pitches (21 for strikes
• The Marlins tied the game in the bottom of the 3rd as Jon Berti smashed a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Derek Fisher that scored Rowdy Tellez
• The Marlins retied it in the bottom of the 6th as Garrett Cooper doubled home Starling Marte 
• The Marlins took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Marte cranked a solo blast to left-center
• Brandon Kintzler pitched a perfect 9th for his 8th save of the season
• Final score: Marlins 3 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Julian Merryweather had a solid outing, walking a batter and striking out 3 over the 1st 2 innings. Based on a small sample size, Merryweather has a bright future ahead of him.
• This one turned into a battle of the bullpens when Marlins starter Elieser Hernandez called for the trainer after throwing three balls to the first batter he faced in the 3rd inning. Hernandez left with a back strain
• Robbie Ray was decent in his Blue Jays debut, firing 3.1 innings, allowing 2 runs (1 earned) on 4 hits while Pete Walker can iron out the kinks
• Jonathan Villar's debut wasn't as great. He was 0-4 at the plate (drove in a run with a ground out) and made a costly error to start the 6th that eventually led to a tying run
• Reese McGuire continues to struggle at the plate - he was 0-3 today and is batting a paltry .083
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for the series split. Ace Hyun-jin Ryu gets the start against Marlins righty Sixto Sanchez.

Game #15 Miami Marlins (8-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-9) - game recap

 

Travis Shaw hit a pair of home runs, including the game-tying solo shot in the 8th  in a losing effort in a wild 14-11 loss to the Marlins

I'm dedicating this game recap to Susan McRae, a Blue Jays fan who passed away this morning. After pulling out their first extra innings win of the season, the Blue Jays wrapped up their brief 2-game series against the Miami Marlins, aka, the team that nearly killed the baseball season. Nate Pearson got the 3rd start of his career, looking to notch his first career W. Same lineup as last night, except Rowdy Tellez was at DH. Could the Blue Jays finally win a series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Brian Anderson smashed a three-run bomb to left; also scoring Matthew Joyce and Corey Dickerson
• The Marlins added a run in the top of the 3rd as Eddy Alvarez drew a bases loaded walk forcing in Dickerson,
• Two batters later, a run (Joyce) came home on a fielding error by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Magneuris Sierra just beat Guerrero Jr. to the bag. The call was upheld after the Blue Jays challenged
• A batter later, Francisco Cervelli scored on a passed ball by Danny Jansen
• A batter later, Alvarez stole home
• A batter later, Jesus Aguilar singled home Sierra
• Nate Pearson pitching line: 2.1IP 5H 7R (4 earrned) 4BB 1K 65 pitches (33 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Teoscar Hernandez smacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Bo Bichette 
• The Blue Jays got 2 more back in the bottom of the 4th as Rowdy Tellez crushed a 2-run blast to right-center also scoring Randal Grichuk
• Jordan Yamamoto pitching line: 3.1IP 7H 4R (all earned) 2BB 5K 75 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Marlins added a run in the top of the 5th as Jonathan Villar singled home Cervelli
• A batter later, Aguilar singled scoring Alvarez and Jon Berti
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning on their third 2-run HR of the night, this time to left by Travis Shaw; also scoring Bichette
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 6th as Danny Jansen clobbered a 2-run bomb to left also scoring Tellez
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. sent a screamer over the wall in dead center 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Bichette smacked a solo shot to left-center
• A batter later, the Blue Jays tied the game as Shaw sent a bomb to right-center 
• The Marlins took the lead in the top of the 10th as Sierra singled home Alvarez and Berti
• Two batters later, Aguilar singled scoring Sierra 
• Josh A. Smith pitched a scoreless 10th for his 1st save of the season
• Final score: Marlins 14 Blue Jays 11

My Take:

• It was a rough night for Nate Pearson, who gave up 7 runs on 5 hits, while walking 4 and striking out 1. You can throw the ball real hard, but if you don't locate the ball, big league hitters will either clobber it or draw a walk because they won't swing at a bad pitch. Pearson didn't get much help from the defense with three runs being unearned thanks to a fielding error by Vlad with the bases juiced
• The bullpen wasn't much better. Jacob Waguespack allowed a further 4 runs on 5 hits (2 runs were unearned due to more defensive blunders). Shun Yamagushi has his best outing in a Blue Jays uniform, throwing 2.1 perfect innings and striking out 4. Jordan Romano allowed his first base hit of the season. Rafael Dolis had an ugly inning in the 10th. An unforced error moved the runner up AND the batter on the first play of the inning was safe due to bad positioning. Later in the inning, the Blue Jays nearly got caught with nobody covering third after Danny Jansen had a ball bounce away from him, very nearly allowing Sierra to advance from 1st to 3rd on the play.
• It was all about the long ball for the Blue Jays offence. In 4 straight innings, the Blue Jays had a 2-run HR. They followed that feat up with 3 solo shots to knot the game at 11. Travis Shaw haad two of the home runs, including the game-tying shot in the 8th. It's clear that the Blue Jays hitters are pretty comfortable playing in Buffalo, as most of them should be having played in Buffalo as the last stop of their minor league careers or as a rehab stint
• This was an ugly game for the defense that saw the Marlins score SIX unearned runs. This game had it all: Bichette threw the ball away in the 10th, Pearson threw a wild pitch in the 3rd, The Marlins were allowed to steal home, players weren't in a good position on a sac bunt and couldn't even get an out, Danny Jansen had a passed ball get by him, Vlad missed a catch. A big part of baseball is mental. You have to be paying attention to what's going on around you and to your assignment. Bottom line, mentally the Blue Jays weren't ready to play today
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open a weekend series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Tanner Roark will start for the Blue Jays against an unknown Rays pitcher (probably an opener)

Game #14 Miami Marlins (7-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-8) - game recap

 

Travis Shaw knocked in the winning run as the Blue Jays knocked off the Marlins 5-4 in 10 innings for their first extra innings win of the season 

After a marathon 21 day road trip, the Blue Jays FINALLY returned to their temporary home in Buffalo. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, Cavan Biggio, Danny Jansen, Reese McGuire, Randal Grichuk, Teoscar Hernandez, Anthony Alford, Santiago Espinal, Billy McKinney, Sam Gaviglio, Jacob Waguespack, Nate Pearson, Wilmer Font, Jordan Romano, Anthony Kay, and Ryan Borucki have all played at least a couple of games for the Buffalo Bisons either as the final stop in their minor careers or as a rehab stint, so most of the team will be familiar with their home city and ball park.The Blue Jays were wearing their 3rd jersey's (baby blue) for the unofficial home opener. Hyun-jin Ryu got the start today, looking to build off a solid start last Tuesday. The usual suspects in your typical every day Blue Jays lineup, except Joe Panik served as the DH today. Danny Jansen was also back behind the plate after having Sunday off and Vlad was back in the field as 1B after DH'ing Sunday. Could the Blue Jays win their unofficial home opener in their temporary new home? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Marlins took the lead in the top of the 3rd as Brian Anderson lined a solo shot to left
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom of the 6th on a three-run blast to left by Bo Bichette, also scoring Danny Jansen and Cavan Biggio
• Elieser Hernandez pitching line: 5.1IP 4H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 82 pitches (53 for strikes)
• Hyun-jin Ryu pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 92 pitches (57 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Biggio singled home Randal Grichuk
• The Marlins tied the game in the top of the 9th as Francisco Cervelli cranked a three-run blast to left-center; also scoring Jon Berti and Anderson
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 10th as Travis Shaw lined a single to right scoring Anthony Alford
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Marlins 4

My take:

•  A starter NOT named Matt Shoemaker managed to pitch into the 6th inning. Hyun-jin Ryu had his best start in a Blue Jays uniform, firing 6 strong innings, allowing just one run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out three. More important, he was pretty economical with his pitches and just four batters worked him to a full count. Ryu has proven to be a smart off-season signing by the Blue Jays. Hopefully he can maintain the consistency over the length of the 4-year deal
• Offensively, the Blue Jays got some timely hitting with Bo Bichette putting the Blue Jays in the lead with a 3-run blast. Cavan Biggio singled home an insurance run the next inning. The Blue Jays had a great approach in the 10th with Danny Jansen advancing the runner with a perfect sac bunt and the next two batters drawing walks (one intentional and one not) then Shaw came throw with a clutch single
• The bullpen blew the save today, after a strong week last week. Anthony Bass put himself in a tough position, getting behind Cervelli with 3 straight balls. A lot of times, managers give veterans the green light to swing at the pitch on a 3-0 count. Also, a lot of times, the batter will let thar pitch go, knowing that he has 2 more strikes if the next pitch is a strike. A lot  of times, the pitcher is just trying to throw a strike on a 3-0 count, so the pitch is a meatball down the middle. To be honest, I'm surprised more batters don't swing on a 3-0 count with the pitch likely being a desirable one to hit.
• Joe Panik and Travis Shaw were the only Blue Jays batters in today's lineup who had never played in Buffalo. They had 1 hit (Shaw's game-winning single) in 8AB combined
• AJ  Cole got his first win in a Blue Jays uniform, pitching the final 1.1 innings
• Up next, the Blue Jays look for their first series win and sweep as they wrap  up this short two game series. Nate Pearson gets his 3rd career start. The Marlins will counter with Hawaiian-born righty Jordan Yamamoto

Game #136 Toronto Blue Jays (62-74) @ Miami Marlins (54-83) - game recap

Sean Reid-Foley threw seven strong innings as the Blue Jays knocked off the Marlins 6-1

Here we go the rubber match of the final game of interleague play for the year. The Team is 12-7 in interleague play this year.Today Sean Reid-Foley started his third career game and was facing a pitcher starting his first career game. Could Reid-Foley get his first MLB win? Here is today's game recap.

Game #135 Toronto Blue Jays (61-74) @ Miami Marlins (54-82) - game recap

Wei-Yin Chen threw 8 strong innings as the Marlins doubled up on the Blue Jays 6-3

Today was a big day in more than one way for the Blue Jays. It is roster expansion day, marking the beginning of a month where fans and management will get a chance to see some of the prospects in the system who will make up the core of the team in the coming years. Already up from the minors are Ryan Borucki and Danny Jansen. Today, Sean Reid Foley, who made two starts in August, righty Taylor Guerrieri and lefty Jose Fernandez. Expect to see Dalton Pompey and Dwight Smith Jr. recalled in the coming days. Today also marks the beginning of a new era. The final remaining major piece from the 2015 playoff run, Josh Donaldson, was traded to Cleveland last night. With him gone, Russell Martin, Yangervis Solarte (when he returns from the oblique injury) and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. will see time at the hot corner. Tonight Marco Estrada was looking to bounce back after a difficult start in Toronto where he lasted just 2 innings before leaving with a back injury. Could the Blue Jays make it two in a row? Here is tonight's game recap.