Game #138 - Seattle Mariners (64-73) @ Toronto Blue Jays (68-70) - game recap

 

Max Scherzer threw 7 shutout innings in a 7-0 shutout win over the Mariners

After a huge comeback win yesterday capped off by an Alejandro Kirk RBI singled and aided by 7 strong innings from Jose Soriano, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win and complete their second series sweep of the season. Max Scherzer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF, Brett Bateman was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Ernie Clenent got the full daty of with Andres Gimenez at SS and Charles McAdoo at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win and complete their second series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Alejandro Kirk whacked a 2-run blast to left-center; also scoring Brett Bateman
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Myles Straw
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 5IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 4K 87 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Kazuma Okamoto hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Max Scherzer pitching line: 7IP 1H 0R 1BB 10K 97 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 8th as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring George Springer and Nathan Lukes
• Three batters later, Bateman doubled scoring Okamoto
• Final score: Blue Jays 7 Mariners 0

My Take:

• Max Scherzer threw 7 shutout innings, giving up a hit, walking one and striking out 10, moving him past Gaylord Perry for 9th most career strikeouts in MLB history. For all the naysayers thinking Scherzer should hang them up, he still has a few bullets left in the legendary arm. This might have been Scherzer's best start in a Blue Jays uniform. He seems extremely motivated with the Blue Jays very much controlling their own destiny to snag the 3rd WC spot with series left against most of the teams they are battling for that one playoff spot. September is going to be a blast.
• The bullpen walked a batter and struck out 5 over the last 2 innings. Brayden Fisher retired every batter he faced.
• The offense today was led by Alejandro Kirk (2-run HR), Kazuma Okamoto (solo HR), Brett Bateman (RBI, run scored) and Andres Gimenez (2 RBI). It's nice to see the offense being spread around with better AB's lately. Vlad has 9 home games left to hit a HR at the Rogers Center
• Both teams were 0-1 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 4-10 with runners in scoring position.
• In terms of the WC race, the Blue Jays are 1.5 games back of the Guardians, who also won today for the 3rd WC spot. The Orioles (won today) are 1 game back of the 3rd WC spot. The Texas Rangers (won today) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Twins (won today) are 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Mariners are 5 games back of the 3rd WC spot and the  Tigers (lost today) are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day tomorrow, the Blue Jays open their second-last road trip in Cleveland with the chance to take over the 3rd WC spot. The Blue Jays took the series in Toronto, outscoring the Guardians 15-13. Spencer Arrighetti starts against Guardians righty Gavin Williams Tuesday

Game #137 - Seattle Mariners (64-72) @ Toronto Blue Jays (67-70) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in the game winning run in a 4-3 comeback win over the Mariners

After a solid win thanks to a team effort offensively and 6 strong innings from ace Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season. Jose Soriano got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Daz Cameron was in LF, Myles Straw was in CF and Brett Bateman was in RF. Ernie Clement was at SS and Charles McAdoo got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and notch their 19th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 4th as Taylor Ward singled scoring Josh Naylor and Raleigh
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 5th on a bases loaded walk to George Springer that forced in Myles Straw. Brett Bateman also scored on the play because ball 4 was a wild pitch by Eduard Bazardo that went to the backstop.
• Kade Andersob pitching line: 4.1IP 3H 2R (both earned) 3BB 3K 85 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 6th as Bateman singled scoring Charles McAdoo
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Straw
• Jose Soriano pitching line: 7IP5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 6K 94 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a perfect 9th for his 31st save of the season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Mariners 3

My Take:

• Jose Soriano fired 7 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6. It's always tough when a start is delayed by a pregame ceremony and it showed early. Soriano was taken deep by Cal Raleigh in the 2nd inning and  he gave up 2 more runs in the 4th inning, but then kept the score where it was at. Soriano got stronger as the game went on and retired 10 of the last 11 batters he faced.
• The bullpen threw 2 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and a walk and strking out 4. Closer Louis Varland looked sharp after a few days rest and retired the side in the ninth on a tidy 12 pitches.
• The offense get 'er done in the 5th, scoring a rare 2 runs on a wild pitch by Mariners reliever Eduard Bazardo, who gave up the series winning HR in last year's ALCS to Springer, who drew the bases loaded walk. The next inning, Bateman came through again with a game-tying RBI single and Captain Kirk followed that up immediately with his own clutch base hit to give the Blue Jays the lead. It feels like Vlad may never hit a home run at the Rogers center ever again. It is unfathomable that he still hasn't gone deep at home. The weight of that contract must feel like an albatross right now.
• Alejandro Kirk was successful on both ABS challenges. The Mariners were 1-2 on ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 3-7 with runners in scoring position.
• In terms of the wild card race, The Blue Jays, Rangers (play later tonight) and Orioles (play later tonight) are all 1.5 games back of the Guardians (lost today) for the 3rd WC spot. If the Rangers and Orioles win their respective games, they will gain another half game over the Blue Jays. The Mariners and Twins (lost today) are both 4 games back of the 3rd WC spot. The Tigers (won today) are 4.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot. 
• Uo next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games, notch their 9th season series win of the seasion and complete their 2nd series sweep of the season. Max Scherzer starts against Mariners righty Logan Gilbert.

Game #136 - Seattle Mariners (64-71) @ Toronto Blue Jays (66-70) - game recap

 

Kazuma Okamoto drove in 3 runs, including a solo HR in an 8-1 rout over the Mariners

After a beat-down yesterday due to a bad day for the pitchers and the offense doing nothing yet again, the Blue Jays were looking to start the weekend with a win as they welcomed the Seattle Mariners to town. The Mariners took the series in Seattle back on the 4th of July long weekend, outscoring the Blue Jays 15-2. Simeon-Woods Richardson, who was a disaster yesterday, was DFA'd. Righty CJ Van Eyk was recalled from AAA-ball. Ace Dylan Cease got the start with Brandon Valenzuelsa behind the plate. Jesus Sanchez was in LF and Brett Bateman was in CF. Andres Gimenez was at SS and  Ernie Clement got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Dominic Canzone whacked a solo blast to right-center
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. doubled scoring Brett Bateman
• Three batters later, Guerrero Jr. scored on a sac fly by Kazuma Okamoto
• A batter later, Andres Gimenez singled scoring George Springer
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Nathan Lukes belted a solo jack to right
• Two batters later, Springer hammered a solo bomb to the 2nd deck in left
• Emerson Hancock pitching line: 5IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 1K 67 pitches (49 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Okamoto whackeda solo blast to left
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 6IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 8K 92 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Myles Straw singled scoring Lukes
• A batter later, Okamoto singled scoring Springer
• Final score: Blue Jays 8 Mariners 1

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 6 strong innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. Cease became the first pitcher since some guy named Randy Johnson in 2001 to have 19 consecutive starts with 7+ strikeouts. Cease has easily been the best starter in the rotation and should garner some Cy Young votes
• The bullpen held the Mariners to a hit and 3 walks while striking out 1 over the last 3 innings, None of the relievers retired every batter they faced
• Offensively, Nathan Lukes (2 runs scored, including solo HR), George Spinger (3 runs scored, including solo HR), Kazuma Okamoto (3 RBI, including solo HR) and Vlad (RBI, run scored) led the way
• The Mariners were 1-1 on ABS challenges. The Blue Jays didn't attempt an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays were 5-11 with runners in scoring position
• In terms of the wild card race, the Blue Jaus are 2.5 games back of the Guardians, who lost tonight, for the 3rd WC spot. The Rangers (lost tonight) are 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot, the Orioles (leading the A's at the moment) are 2.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot, but will be 2 games back of the 3rd WC spot if they hang on to win tonight. The Twins (lost tonight) are 4 games back of the final WC spot, the Mariners fell to 5 games back of the final WC spot and the free falling Tigers are 5.5 games back of the 3rd WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it 2 straight wins (and guarantee a season series splut) and notch their 19th series win of the season. Jose Soriano starts against Mariners lefty Kade Anderson

Game #90 - Toronto Blue Jays (42-48) @ Seattle Mariners (47-44) - game recap

 

Tyler Rogers threw a scoreless inning in a 4-0 shutout loss to the Mariners

After a blowout shutout loss yesterday due to a bad day for Shane Bieber and the pitchers and the offense managing one measly single the entire game, the Blue Jays were looking to notch their 11th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after the half day off as DH yesterday (Sean Key served as DH today).Ernie Clement was at SS and Luis Urias got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays notch their 11th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd on a sac fly by Cal Raleigh that scored Victor Robles
• The Mariners added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Mitch Garver whacked a 2-run blast to left; also scoring Cole Young
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 6IP 3H 3R (2 earned) 2BB 7K 96 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Emerson Hancock pitching line: 7IP 2H 0R 2BB 5K 92 pitches (58 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Josh Naylor singled scoring Randy Arozarena
• Final score: Mariners 4 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage fired 6 solid innings, giving up 3 runs on 3 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7. He got stronger as the game went on and  retired the last 8 batters he faced. More important, he got 18 outs a day after Shane Bieber barely survived 4 innings and was nearly knocked out of the game in the 2nd inning. Yesavage seems to be slowly finding his form after missing the first month with an injury.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 3 over 2 innings. Mason Fluharty, who has been overused this season, was responsible for the 3 hits and run. Tyler Rogers retired every batter he faced in his inning of work.
• Well, the Blue Jays managed a few more base runners and got a runner into scoring position today. Vlad even reached base twice today, breaking up the perfect game in the 1st inning. If things don't turn around soon, David Popkins may find himself out of a job. The games are only going to get harder as the wild card races heat up and teams acquire players in trades to strengthen their lineups and pitching staffs. 
• The catchers had opposite results on ABS challenges with Alejandro Kirk overturning three ABS challenges while Mariners catcher Mitch Garver was unsuccessful on both his ABS challenges
• The Blue Jays were 0-2 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays head south to San Francisco to continue their west coast road swing. The Blue Jays swept the season series last year, outscoring the Giants 18-9. Ace Kevin Gausman starts against Giants righty Landen Roupp

Game #89 - Toronto Blue Jays (42-47) @ Seattle Mariners (46-44) - game recap

 

Brayden Fisher struck out the side in an 11-0 shutout loss to the Mariners

After a win yesterday on the strength of 7 excellent innings from Dylan Cease and a 2-run 3rd inning rally, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 11th series win of the season. Shane Bieber got the start with Brandon Valenzuela behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Sean Keys at 1B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 11th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Victor Robles singled scoring Cole Young
• Three batters later, Randy Arozarena hammered a grand slam to left; also scoring Robles, Colt Emerson and JP Crawford
• The Mariners added a pair ofd runs in the bottom of the 5th as Dominic Canzone belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Arozarena
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 4IP 6H 7R (all earned) 3BB 3K 89 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the bottom of the 6th as Canzone singled scoring Emerson
• A batter later, Cal Raleigh drilled a 3-run blast to right; also scoring Canzone and Arozarena
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 7.1IP 1H 0R 0B 7K 91 pitches (63 for strikes)
• Final score: Mariners 11 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Shane Bieber ws lit up for 7 runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 3 over 4 innings. The 2nd inning was a complete disaster for him which he barekly escaped, needing 44 pitches, giving up 5 runs in the inning, capped by a grand slam from Randy Arozarena, who stopped to play rocks paper scissors with the first base coach during the home run trot. Bieber came out for the 4th and gave up a 2-run HR to end his day. It has been a struggle to find consistent form for the veteran righty after missing te first couple of months of the season with injury.
• The bullpen gave up a further 4 runs on 5 hits with 0 walks and  6 strikeouts over the last 4 innings. Brayden Fisher, who struck out the side in the 8th inning, and Myles Straw both retired every batter they faced.
• Not much to say about the offense, that managed one bloop single to break up the no hitter and perfect game on a day where Logan Gilbert was pulling his best Greg Maddux, needing basically 10 pitches to get through every inning. To be fair, he was nasty today with his fastball consistently touching 97/98 MPH. Sometimes you just have to tip your cap to a nice pitching performance
• The Blue Jays were 1-1 on ABS challenges. The Mariners did not attempt an ABS challenge
• The Blue Jays did not get a runner into scoring position today
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 11th series win of the season. Trey Yesavage starts against Mariners righty Emerson Hancock

Game #88 - Toronto Blue Jays (42-46) @ Seattle Mariners (45-44) - game recap

 

After an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays began a west coast swing in Seattle against the Mariner, a rematch of the ALCS that propelled the Blue Jays to an opportunity for their 3rd world series of which they fell inches short. In the regular season, the Blue Jays won the season series outscoring the Mariners 31-24. Dylan Cease got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as Wednesday's Canada Day blowout against Bo Bichette and the Mets. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games and start te west coast swing with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 3rd as Andres Gimenez doubled scoring Sean Keys
• Two batters later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. singled home Gimenez
• Luis Castillo pitching line; 6IP 5H 2R (both earned) 1BB 4K 101 pitches (712 for strikes) 
• Dylan Cease pitching line: 7IP 3H 0R 1BB 9K 102 pitches (70 for strikes)
• Louis Varland threw a scoreless 9th for his 18th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Mariners 0

My Take:

• Dylan Cease fired 7 shutout innings, scattering 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 9.  He hit into a jam in the bottom of the 3rd but pitched his way out of it witth the help of a nice double play executed behind him. That was really his only stressful inning and Cease retired 13 of the last 14 batters he faced
• The bullpen held the Mariners to a walk and a hit while striking out 3 over the last 2 innings. Hoffman was placed on the highest leverage situation he's been in for a while, pitching the 8th with a 2- run lead. Hopefully John Schneider keeps him where he is and doesn't try to make him a closer again.
• The sputtering offense got two clutch base hits off the bats of Vlad and Andres Gimenez. Maybe just maybe Vlad is starting to slowly turn it around, but he is still executing far below what one should expect someone paid aikm to stars like Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto, who have been earning their mega deals a lot better. Vlad basically had his career year in 2021; a year where the Blue Jays were playing their home games in minor league ballparks due to the COVID-19 restrictions. He is almost certainly playing through something and should seriously consider an IL stint to get over whatever the ailment is so he can better help the team. No one should be questioning his commitment to trying to improve - Guerrero Jr. has been spent hours in the batting cage - perhaps too much time.  Maybe he should try some video sessions to try and find the flaw in his swing.
• The Mariners Randy Arozarena was unsuccessful in both his ABS challenges and Alejandro Kirk successfully overturned the Blue Jays only ABS challenge.  Mariners manager Dan Wilson can't be happy that Arozarena blew both their ABS challenges
• The Blue jays were 1-4 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 11th series win of the season. Shane Bieber starts against Mariners righty Logan  Gilbert 

ALCS GAME 7 - Seattle Mariners (3-4) @ Toronto Blue Jays (4-3) - Game recap

 

George Springer hit a 3-run HR in a 4-3 comeback win over the Mariners to advance to their first world series since 1993

After a huge win yesterday, the Blue Jys were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games and punch their ticket to the world series. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins and punch their ticket to the world series? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Josh Naylor singled scoring Julio Rodriguez
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the bottom half of the inning as Daulton Varsho singled scoring George Springer
• The Mariners retook the lead in the top of the 3rd as Rodriguez whacked a solo blast to left-center
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 3.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 74 pitches (44 for strikes)
• George Kirby pitching line: 4IP 4H 1R (earned) 1BB 3K 65 pitches (42 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 5th as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• The Blue Jaya took the lead in the bottom of the 7th as Springer belted a 3-run jack to left-center; also scoring Addison Barger and IKF 
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the post-season.
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Mariners 3

My Take

• Shane Bieber battled through 3.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. Not an efficient game by any means, but the litmus test was alway going to be whether he was getting outs and keeping the score close. Unfortunately tonight, he didn't have the feel for the slider and his command wasn't there either.
• The bullpen held it together aand kept the score close, giving up a run on one hit, while walking 3 and striking out 4 over the last 5.1 innings. Louis Varland gave up a  solo home run. Kevin Gausman, who walked 3 batters, was credited with the win. Jeff Hoffman struck out the side in the 9th with his velo good in spite of 33 pitches thrown yesterday. 
• George Springer provided the Kirk Gibson moment with a HUGE 3-run bomb in the 7th to give the Blue Jays the lead when it looked very much like they were going to fall short. Daulton Varsho drove in the other run to negate the opening inning run manufactured by the Mariners. 
• Every starter had at least one hit. The hallmark of this team all season has been team efforts offensively. They are going to face a much stiffer test against the defending world series champs
• The Blue Jays were 2-6 with runners in scoring position
• The next few days are going to be very telling with respect to the world series roster. Bo Bichette is trying his darndest to make it back for the world series. It would likely be the last time with him in a Blue Jays uniform with Bichette set to hit free agency and cash in after a strong regular season. If Bichette is added to the world series roster, IKF would likely be the odd man out 
• Could we see an encore of Max Scherzer vs. Clayton Kershaw in the world series. Both legends could call it a career after this season (Kershaw has already said he is done)
• There are going to be a lot of fans who were either not alive or are too young to remember one or both world series the Blue Jays one. Yours truly was only 9 years old when Joe Carter hit a walk-off home run to win the 1993 world series and I only remember Carter's home run because I called it while watching with my family. I remember my uncle thinking Darnell Cole, who was on deck would be the hero. I have no real recollection of the 1992 world series
• Up next, the world series against the defending champion LA Dodgers, who have been idle since last Friday after sweeping Milwaukee, who finished with the best record in the MLB. The Dodgers won the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 18-7. Neither team has set their rotation for the series, but expect Kevin Gausman to get the nod in game 1.

ALCS GAME 6 - Seattle Mariners (3-3) @ Toronto Blue Jays (3-3) - Game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in 3 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 6-2 win over the Mariners to force a game 7

After dropping game 5 in Seattle, the Blue Jays were looking to keep their season alive as they returned home to Toronto. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was in the lineup despite leaving game 5 after getting hit in the knee by a pitch. The rest of the lineup was the same as was in Seattle. Could the Blue Jays win and force a game seven? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Addison Barger singled scoring Daulton Varsho 
• A batter later Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled home Ernie Clement
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Barger belted a 2-run jack to right-center; also scoring Clement
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 5th as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. bashed a solo jack to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 4IP 7H 5R (4 earned) 1BB 3K 75 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the top of the 6th as Josh Naylor hammered a solo bomb off the basing of the second deck
• Two batters later, Eugenio Suarez singled scoring Randy Arozarena 
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 5.2IP 6H 2R (both earned) 3BB 7K 87 pitches (56 or strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 7th on a throwing error by Cal Raleigh that scored Guerrero Jr.
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Mariners 2

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 6 hits while walking 3 and striking out 7, Yesavage benefited from 2 inning ending double play balls. He also retired the first 6 batters he faced. He should get a strong look in spring training at a spot in the rotation.
• The bullpen was solid tonight, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out 8 over the last 3.1 innings. A rested Hoffman had good velocity, but that may not be the case tomorrow after he threw 33 pitches over 2 innings. John Schneider wasn't about to take any chances with the season on the line and used his closer to get the last 6 outs.
• Offensively, Addison Barger (3RBI, including 2-run HR), Ernie Clement (2 runs scored) and Vlad (2 runs scored on solo GR and great running effort to force a bad throw from Cal Raleigh) carried the day.
• The Blue Jays were 3-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, game seven with the wnner taking on the Dodgers at home starting on Friday. George Kirby starts for the Mariners. The Blue Jays will likely turn to Shane Bieber.

ALCS GAME 5 - Toronto Blue Jays (2-3) @ Seattle Mariners (3-2) - Game recap-

 

Kevin Gausman threw 5.2 solid innings in a 6-2 come-from-behind loss to the Mariners

After a second straight convincing won thanks to the offence getting to the starting pitcher and a strong start from Max Scherzer, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and put themselves on the verge of punching their ticket to the world series. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. The rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and give themselves a chance to punch their ticket to the world series at home on Sunday? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Eugenio Suarez belted a solo jack to left-center 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 5th as George Springer doubled scoring Addison Barger
• Bryce Miller pitching line: 4IP 4H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 56 pitches (39 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 6th as Ernie Clement singled scoring Alejandro Kirk
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 1R (earned) 2BB 4K 91 pitches (53 for strikes)
• The Mariners tied it in the bottom of the 8th as Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to left and into the Mariners bullpen
• Four batters later, Suarez blasted a grand slam to the opposite field in right; also scoring Jorge Polanco, Josh Naylor and Randy Arozarena
• Final score: Mariners 6 Blue Jays 2

My Take: 

• Kevin Gausman fired 5.2 strong innings, giving up a run on 3 hitd whie walking 2 and striking out 4. Gausman retired 13 of the last 16 batters he faced. The only run he gave up was a solo home runs, an issue that has been rearing it's ugly head. If the Blue Jays force a game 7 with a win Sunday, he'll likely be available in the bullpen
• The bullpen, and in particular Brandon Little, who gave up a game-tying homer to Cal Raleigh, who continues to have a season for the ages offensively, and Seranthony  Dominguez, who gave up a grand slam. Little, who did not retire a batter, was tagged with the loss and blown save.
• Offensively, George Springer and Ernie Clement. Vlad is going to be criticized big time for striking out with runners on 1st and 2nd with 2 outs in the 5th. The Mariners opted to intentionally walk him in two other plate appearances. They need production from the batters before and after Vlad so the Mariners have no choice but to pitch to him
• There has to be concern about George Springer, who left the game after getting hit in the knee by a pitch. Hopefully with a day between games, he'll be good to go for game 6.
• The Blue Jays were 2-11 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to win game 6 in Toronto to keep their season alive. Trey Yesavage starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners have not announced a starter yet

ALCS GAME 3 - Toronto Blue Jays (1-2) @ Seattle Mariners (2-1) - Game recap

 

Aleejandro Kirk hit a 3-run HR in a 13-4 comeback win over the Mariners

After another game lost due to the bullpen blowing the game, the Blue Jays were looking to get back in the ALCS with a win in Seattle. Shane Bieber got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Anthony Santander was in RF. Could the Bklue Jays snap the 2-game skid and get their 1st win of the ALCS? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Julio Rodriguez belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Randy Arozarena
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 3rd as Andres Gimenez whacked a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Six batters later, Nathan Lukes scored on a wild pitch by George Kirby
• Same batter, Daultion Varsho doubled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Alejandro Kirk
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th as George Springer hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 5th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Four batters later, Clement singled scoring Anthony Santander. Kirk was thrown out at 3rd base on the play
• George Kirby pitching line:4IP 8H 8R (all earned) 2BB 4-K 74 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 6th as Gimenez scored on a ground out hit by Lukes
• Three batters later, Kirk whacked a 3-run blast to the opposite field in right; also scoring Guerrero Jr. and Springer
• Shane Bieber pitching line: 6IP 4H 2R (both earned) 1BB 8K 88 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the bottom of the 8th as Arozarena drilled a solo blast to left-center
• A batter later, Cal Raleigh whacked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Addison Barger drilled a solo blast to right-center
• Final score: Blue Jays 13 Mariners 4

My Take:

• Shane Bieber fired 6 solid innings, giving up a pair of runs on 4 hits while walking 1 and striking out 8. After a tough first inning that saw Bieber cough up 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk, the veteran righty settled down and retired 17 of the last 19 batters he faced. Coming off tommy john surgery, Bieber is likely the freshest player on either team. This start will certainly increase offers Bieber gets in free agency (Bieber is expected to decline his player's option and hit the free agent market 
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs on 4 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Both runs were charged to Yariel Rodriguez, who gave up back-to-back home runs. None of the relievers retired every batter they faced.
• The offense exploded like a pop bottle, erupting to score 13 runs on 18 hits. It was a team effort led by Alejandro Kirk (2 runs scored, including a 3-run HR), Andres Gimenez (2 runs scored, including a 2-run HR), Daulon Varsho (2RBI), Vlad (was 4-4, scored 3 times, including a solo HR), George Springer, scored twice, including a solo HR) Nathan Lukes (RBI, run scored)
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Anthony Santamder had a hit. Every Blue Jays starter either scored a run or drove in a run
• The Blue Jays were 4-16 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 2 games and even the ALCS. Max Scherzer starts against Mariners righty Luis Castillo.

ALCS GAME 2 - Seattle Mariners (2-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (0-2) - Game recap

 

Nathan Lukes drove in 2 runs and scored once in a 10-3 loss to the Mariners. He was only credited with one RBI due to a throwing error by Mariners 1B Josh Naylor on the first ron of the day.

After dropping the opener of the ALCS due to the bullpen blowing the save and the inept offence mustering two hits, one being a leadoff HR, the Blue Jays were looking to even the series. Trey Yesavage got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was a late scratch with back tightness and Davis Schneider took his place in LF. Could the Blue Jays even the series? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Julio Rodriguez belted a 3-run jack to the second deck in left; also scoring Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Nathan Lukes singled scoring George Springer
• Three batters later,  Alejandro Kirk singled home Lukes 
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 2nd as Lukes singled scoring Springer 
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 3IP 5H 3R (2 earned) 1BB 2K 58 pitches (39 for strikes)
• The Mariners took the lead in the top of the 5th as Jorge Polanco hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Arozarena and Raleigh
• Trey Yesavage pitching line: 4IP 4H 5R (all earned) 3BB 4K 70 pitches (43 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 6th as JP Crawford singled Leo Rivas
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Josh Naylor smashed a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Polanco
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 7th on a sac fly by Crawford that scored Eugenio Suarez 
• Final score: Mariners 10 Blue Jays 2

My Take:

• Trey Yesavage battled through 4 innings, giving up 5 runs on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. He had a tough start to the game, falling behind by three before recording an out after hitting the first batter he faced, pitching around Cal Raleigh and giving up a no-doubter to Julio Rodriguez. He did retire 6 in a row at one point. Same situation happened as last night where the Mariners took the lead immediately after Yesavage left the game. Unfortunate since it tacked two more runs onto Yesavage's pitching line
• The bullpen gave up a further 5 runs (technically 7 if you count the two charged to starter Trey Yesavage on the 3-run HR given up by Louis Varland, who was the first reliever out of the bullpen tonight. Chris Bassitt was the only reliever to retire every batter he faced. If the Blue Jays are eliminated in a sweep, very plausible with how the series is going, Pete Walker should be the scapegoat. It is very troubling that the pitchers continue to give up home runs. The pitching is the weak link this year. It's hard to come back in the playoffs and a 7-run deficit is virtually insurmountable.
• Offensively, the bats have gone cold at the worst possible time. Nathan Lukes drove in 2 of the 3 runs. Alejandro Kirk drove in Lukes for the other run,
• Time to swich up the lineup. Bring Myles Straw in at the very least.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap a 2-game skid as they face a daunting task where they must win 4 of the next 5 games and at least 2 of 3 in Seattle. Shane Bieber starts against Mariners righty George Kirby

ALCS GAME 1 - Seattle Mariners (1-0) @ Toronto Blue Jays (0-1) - Game recap

 

George Springer hit a leadoff HR in a losing effort as the Marineras came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 3-1

After a hard-fought ALDS triumph over the Yankees, the Blue Jays opened the ALCS against expansion cousins the Seattle Mariners. The Blue Jays won the seaon series against the Mariners, outscoring the Mariners 31-24. Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer were added to the ALCS roster and Justin Bruihl and Tommy Nance were dropped. Bo Bichette was also left off the roster. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Addison Barger was at the hot corner, Andres Gimenez was at SS, Ernie Clement was at 2B and of course Vlad got the nod at 1B. Could the Blue Jays open the ALCS with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as George Springer led off with a solo blast to the second deck of the opposite field in right
• Nathan Lukes left the game prior to the 4th inning after fouling a ball off his right knee
• The Mariners tied it in the top of the 7th as Cal Raleigh belted a solo jack to right-center
• Two batters later, Jorge Polanco singled scoring Juliu Rodriguez
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5.2IP 3H 2R (both earned) 1BB 5K 76 pitches (48 for strikes)
• Bryce Miller pitching line: 6IP 2H 1R (earned) 3BB 3K 76 pitches (52 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a run in the top of the 8th as Jorge Polanco singled scoring Randy Arozarena
• Andres Munoz pitched a perfect 9th for his 2nd save of the postseason
• Final score: Mariners 3 Blue Jays 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman fired 5.2 innings, giving up a pair of runs on 3 his while walking 1 and striking out 5. It's unfortunate how the 6th inning played out with Gausman a strike away from a perfect inning and a solid pitch count still in the 60s. He retired 16 in a row before Cal Raleigh (who else?) took him deep.
• The bullpen surrendered 2 runs  (one charged to Gausman) on 4 hits while walking 2 and striking out 6 over the last 3.1 innings. Mason Fluharty retired every batter he faced. Louis Varland, Brandon Little and Seranthony Dominiguez scare me. Dominguez has a tendency to walk batters, Litlle struggles against righties and Varland hasn't really been himself since joining the Blue Jays 
• Offensively, George Springer hit a leadoff home run and that was about it. Vlad's magic from the ALDS didn't materialize tonight - he was 0-4 at the plate. The Blue Jays need tto show more discipline at the plate. The three Mariners relievers needed just 24 pitches to get the last 9 outs
• The Blue Jays were 0-4 with runners in scoring position. 
• Up next,  the Blue Jays try to even the series. Trey Yesavage starts for the Blue Jays. The Mariners have not named a starter for game 2 yet. They needed to use 3 starting pitchers in the 15 inning marathon yesterday and Bryan Woo is just coming off the injured list and may not be at his best.

Game #40 - Toronto Blue Jays (20-20) @ Seattle Mariners (22-17) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 3-run HR in a 9-1 rout over the Mariners

First, happy mother's day to all the female readers of this blog. After another solid win thanks to some outstanding pitching and the bats of Bo Bichette, Addison Barger and Myles Straw, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 2nd series sweep and notch their 2nd season series win. Jose Urena got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Jonatan Clase was in LF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 2nd series sweep and notch their 2nd season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Myles Straw singled scoring Nathan Lukes 
• The Mariners tied it up in the bottom of the 3rd as Dylan Moore drilled a solo blast to left-center and into the Mariners bullpen
• Jose Urena pitching line: 2IP 2H 1R (earned) 1BB 0K 31 pitches (19 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Ernie Clement that scored Alejandro Kirk 
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the top of the 5th as George Springer hammered a 3-run bomb to the second deck in left; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Addison Barger
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Jonatan Clase doubled scoring Lukes and Clement
• Bryce Miller pitching line: 5IP 8H 7R (all earned) 2BB 3K 92 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Barger whacked a solo blast - the 1st of his career - to right
• Three batters later, Lukes singled home Springer
• Final score: Blue Jays 9 Mariners 1

My Take:

• Jose Urena got through the 1st 2 innings and gave up a solo home run on the last batter he faced at the start of the 3rd inning. If the plan was for him to be lifted after one time through the order, why not give Eric Lauer a clean inning to start (not to mention a lead. Urena struggled through the 1st inning, giving up a hit and a walk. He sent the Mariners down in order the next inning. With a low bar, Urena has passed expectations thus far
• The bullpen threw 7 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits, walking a batter and striking out 7. It's amazing what having fresh pitchers who have a nice cushion to work with will do for you. The Blue Jays may have found a combo that will work for them in Urena/Lauer until Scherzer is ready to pitch.
• The Blue Jays removed Alejandro Kirk, who was hit on the back swing off the bat of Julio Rodriguez in the bottom of the 3rd. It was absolutely the right call. You don't mess with head injuries. Give Kirk an extra day or two if he needs it too.
• Nice to see the bats waking up. Addison Barger is taking advantage of every day playing time. He went deep for the first time in his career and scored a second run. Nathan Lukes drove in one and scored twice. George Springer continues to turn back the clock. He unleashed a 3-run bomb to the second deck in left (coincidently nearly where yours truly sat in 2018). Jonatan Clase contributed with a 2-run double
• Every Blue Jays starter except Bo Bichette had at least one hit and either scored a run or drove in a run
• It was the first series sweep in Seattle since 1991, when I was just 7 years old and about a year before I started watching baseball
• The Blue Jays were 6-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day/travel day yesterday, the Blue Jays open up a 9-game, 10-day home stand as they take on the Rays for the first time this season (and former starting catcher Danny Jansen). The Rays won the season series last season 9-4, outscoring the Blue Jays 56-45. Ace Jose Berrios starts the week for the Blue Jays. The Rays haven't set their rotation for the series yet.

Game #39 - Toronto Blue Jays (19-20) @ Seattle Mariners (22-16) - game recap

 

Addison Barger drove in the game winning run in a 6-3 comeback win over the Mariners

After a solid win over the Mariners, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 5th series win of the season. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Myles Straw was in LF. tahe rest of the lineup was the same as yesterday's win. Could the Blue Jays make it 3 straight wins and 5 series wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Rowdy Tellez belted a solo jack to the opposite field in left-center and into the bullpens.
• The Mariners added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Randy Arozarena doubled scoring Julio Rodriguez
• Two batters later, Cal Raleigh scored on a sac fly by Leody Taveras
• The Blue Jays  got a pair back in the top of the 5th as Bo Bichette whacked a 2-run blast just over the wall in right-center; also scoring Myles Straw
• The Blue Jays tied it in the top of the 6th on a fielder's choice hit by Addison Barger that scored George Springer
• Logan Evans pitching line: 5IP 5H 3R (all earned) 2BB 3K 89 pitches (59 for strikes)
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 6.2IP 6H 3R (all earned) 1BB 5K 89 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 8th as Barger singled scoring Springer
• Three batters, Straw singled home Barger and Ernie Clement
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 9th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Mariners 3

My Take:

• Bowden Francis gave a taxed bullpen a break, firing 6.2 innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits while walking 1 and striking out 5. After putting the Blue Jays into a 2-0 deficit, Francis retired 11 in a row. It was an efficient start for Francis, needing 89 pitches to get 20 outs. Here's hoping he builds off this start.
• The bullpen was perfect retiring every batter they faced (Hoffman struck out the side)
• Addison Barger and Myles Straw both did a lot of the heavy lifting offensively, both driving in a pair of runs and scoring once. Bo Bichette went yard for the other 2 runs.
• The Blue Jays were 2-7 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games, complete their 2nd series sweep and notch their 2nd season series win. Jose Urena starts against righty Bryce Miller

Game #22 - Seattle Mariners (12-10) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-10) - game recap

 

Tyler Heineman had three hits, drove in a run and threw out a base runner at 2nd base in an 8-3 loss to the Mariners

After an extra-innings loss yesterday due to a brutal 5-run inning from Jacob Barnes, who was DFA'd, the Blue Jays were looking to end the homestand with a win and notch their 3rd series win of the season. Reliever Nick Sandin was placed on the 15-day IL with a right lat strain. Righties Dillon Tate and Paxton Schultz were recslled from AAA-ball. Easton Lucas got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after the half day off yesterday as DH (Anthony Santander served as DH today). Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Will Wagner was at the hot corner, Could the Blue Jays end the homestand on a winning note and notch their 3rd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Dylan Moore whacked a solo blast to left-center and into the Blue Jays bullpen 
• Two batters later,  Cal Raleigh hammered a 2- run bomb to left off the basing of the second deck; also scoring Julio Rodriguez
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 2nd as Randy Arozarena singled scoring Ben Williamson and Leo Rivas 
• A batter later,  Mitch Garver singled home Rodriguez
• Easton Lucas pitching line: 1.2IP 7H 6R (all earned) 2BB 5K 55 pitches (32 for strikes)
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Tyler Heineman singled scoring Addison Barger 
• Two batters later,  Bo Bichette singled scoring Will Wagner 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom of the 4th on a sac fly by Nathan Lukes that scored George Springer 
• Luis Castillo pitching 5IP 10H 3R (all earned) 2BB 5K 102 pitches (67 for strikes)
• The Mariners added a pair of runs in the top of the 7th as Rowdy Tellez bashed a 2-run blast to right and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Garver
• Final score: Mariners 8 Blue Jays 3

My Take:

• Easton Lucas was lit up for 6 runs on 7 hits while walking 2 and striking out 5 while recording just 5 outs. The Blue jays don't really have many options in what was supposed to be Max Scherzer's spot in the rotation. The potential options in Buffalo are struggling.  Jake Bloss has given up 19 runs (13 earned) on 19 his and 9 walks over 11  and a third innings.  Neither Lazaro Estrada nor Eric Lauer have impressed.  Alek Manoah and Rickey Tiederman won't be ready until after the all star break. Yariel Rodriguez isn't built up as a starter.  The Blue Jays won't want to have a bullpen day every 5th day since that will lead to overuse and injury. Oh yeah, and next time that spot will come up will be Saturday at Yankee stadium.  
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs on 5 hits while striking out 13 over the last 7.1 innings. Paxson Schultz threw 4.1 impressive innings, scattering 2 hits and striking out 8. Mason Fluharty retired all four batters he faced.
• Much like yesterday, the Blue Jays had a good pitcher on the ropes and let him off the hook. Tyler Heineman continued his solid start to the season with 3 hits and and RBI and he threw out a runner at 2B to end the 8th inning. Bo Bichette is back to being the Blue Jays most consistent batter and drove in a run. They had enough base runners and chances to make a game of of it, but they could not deliver. Being 5-21 with runners in scoring position isn't going to win ball games. Not hitting a home run won't do it either. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road, starting in Houston tomorrow night. The Astros won the season series 5-2 in 2024, outscoring the Blue Jays 42-15. Kevin Gausman starts against Astros righty Hunter Brown

Game #21 - Seattle Mariners (11-10) @ Toronto Blue Jays (12-9) - game recap

 

Anthony Santander drove in a run and scored a run in a losing effort as the Mariners came from behind to double up the Blue Jatys 8-4 in a 12-inning marathon

After a solid win yesterday on the back of a strong start from Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays were looking for their 4th straight win and 3rd series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Anthony Santander in RF. Myles Straw got the start in CF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and notch their 3rd series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Anthony Santander singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Mariners took the lead in the top of the 5th as Cal Raleigh doubled scoring Ben Williamson and JP Crawford
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk singled home Andres Gimenez
• Logan Gilbert pitching line: 4.2IP 7H 2R (both earned) 2BB 9K 102 pitches (68 for strikes)

• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 6th as Bo Bichette singled scoring Ernie Clement
• The Mariners tied the game in the top of the 7th as Williamson drilled a solo blast to left
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 4H 3R (all earned) 4BB 3K 82 pitches (47 for strikes)
• The Mariners took the lead in the top of the 12th as Randy Arozarena singled scoring JP Crawford
• Two batters later Rowdy Tellez hammered a grand slam to the second deck in right; also scoring Arozarena, Raleigh and Luke Raley
• 
  
• The Blue jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning on a ground out hit by George Springer that scored Anthony Santander
• Final score: Mariners 8 Blue Jays 4 (12 innings)

My Take:

• Jose Berrios battled through 6 innings, giving up 3 runs on 4 hiis while walking 4 and striking out 3.  Berrios had 2 out streaks of 6 outs. He was definitely figuring out what he had working today.
• The bullpen did well to hold the Mariners off the scoreboard until the 12th inning and poor Jacob Barnes was lit up for 5 runs in that fateful 12th inning, including giving up a grand slam to ex-Blue Jay Rowdy Tellez
• Offesively, the Blue Jays had plenty of chances but could not push the winning run home. In the 10th and 11th innings, the game-winning run was just 90 feet away with 1 out. Alan Roden popped out and Ernie Clement flew out to right to end the 10th Bo Bichette struck out swinging and Anthony Santander grounded out to end the 11th. Santander drove in a run and scored a run earlier in the game.
• The Blue Jays were 3-19 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 3rd series win of the season. Easton Lucas starts against Mariners righty Luis Castillo

Game #90 - Toronto Blue Jays (41-49) @ Seattle Mariners (49-43) - game recap

 

Daulton Varsho knocked in the game winning run as the Blue Jays came from behind to defeat the Mariners 5-4 in 10 innings

After hanging on for a 1-run win yesterday, the Blue Jays were going for their 2nd straight win, 8th series win and 5th season series win of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Justin Turner was back in the lineup as DH after returning from the paternity list yesterday. Vlad was at the hot corner and Spencer Horwirz was at 1B. Leo Jimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays make it 2 straight wins, 8 series wins and 5 season series wins? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Mariners opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as Victor Robles hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left
• The Blue Jays tied it up in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Bo Bichette
• The Mariners retook the lead in the bottom of the 5th as Mitch Garver drilled a 3-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Dominic Canzone and Robles
• The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the 7th as George Springer belted a 3-run jack to the opposite field in right-center; also scoring Kirk and Leo Jimenez
• George Kirby pitching line: 6IP 7H 3R (all earned) 1BB 8K 93 pitches (65 for strikes)
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 6IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 10K 98 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 10th as Daulton Varsho singled scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Genesis Cabrera pitched a scoreless 10th for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Mariners 4

My Take:

• Jose Berrios gave up 4 runs on 7 hits while walking 1 and striking out 10. He was pitching out of jams in every inning but the 4th inning. Berrios gave up 2 home runs that amounted to the 4 runs scored. He'll get one more start before the all-star break
• The bullpen also faced jams in all four innings they worked, including bases loaded james in innings 8-10. The Blue Jays are fortunate they were not swept by the Mariners, let alone winning the series.
• Offensively, Alejandro Kirk (sac fly, 1 run scored), George Springer (3-run HR) and Daulton Varsho (RBI single) did the damage
• The Blue Jays were 2-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, after an off-day tomorrow, the Blue Jays continue the west coast swing in San Francisco. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 from the Giants last season, outscoring the Giants 8-5. Yusei Kikuchi starts against Giants lefty Blake Snell

Game #13 - Seattle Mariners (5-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-7) - game recap

 

Yusei Kikuchi threw 6.2 strong innings in a 6-1 loss to the Mariners

After another solid win over the Mariners thanks to  some clutch hitting, including a 2-run jack from Bo Bichette and 6.2 strong innings from Chris Bassitt, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and complete their first series sweep of the seeason. The Blue Jays traded righty Wes Parsons to the Cleveland Guardians for International Signing Bonus Pool Space. Parsons made 2 appearances this season for the Blue Jays and gave up 6 runs on 6 hits while walking 2 and striking out 2 over 5 innings. He was DFA'd April 4. Back to today's game. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Justin Turner at 1B. Daulton Varsho was in LF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays make it three straight wins and complete their 1st sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game #12 - Seattle Mariners (4-8) @ Toronto Blue Jays (6-6) - game recap

 

Bo Bichete hit a 2-run HR in a 5-3 win over the Mariners

After a solid win thanks to 6.2 shutout innings from Jose Berrios and some timely hitting, the Blue Jays were going for their 1st series win and first multi-game win streak. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Davis Schneider was in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 1st series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 3rd as George Springer singled scoring Daulton Varsho (this was made possible due to a disengagement violation that put Springer on 2B
• Two batters later, Bo Bichette hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left-centerl; also scoring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• The Blue Jays added a run in the bottom of the 4th as Isiah Kiner-Falefa singled scoring Cavan Biggio 
• Two batters later, Springer singled home Kiner-Falefa
• Kirby George pitching line: 4IP 8H 5R (all earned) 0BB 3K 87 pitches (54 for strikes)
• The Mariners got one back in the top of the 7th as Dominic Canzone whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left-center
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 6.2 IP 5H 1R (earned) 4BB 8K 115 pitches (72 for strikes)
• The Mariners got a pair back in the top of the 8th as Mitch Haniger whacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left; also scoring Julio Rodriguez
• Chad Green got the last 4 outs for his 2nd save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 5 Mariners 3

y  Take:

• Chris Bassitt had his best start of the season, giving up a run on 5 hits while walking 4 and striking out 8. The lone run he gave up was in his final inning. It is interesting that John Schneider and co. are letting the starters pttch deeper in games. A lack of trust in the bullpen may be a factor. Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson can't come back soon enough.
• The bullpen gave up a pair of runs (given up on a 2-run HR by Trevor Richards) on 1 hit while walking 2 and striking out none over the last 2.1 innings. The team is definitely missing Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson. The bullpen has been forced to play out of their optimal roles with the Blue Jays closer and primary setup man rehabbing injuries. Swanson is a bit ahead of Romano, having pitched an inning in Single A a couple of days ago.
• The offence jumped on Mariners starter George Kirby, scoring 5 runs on him through 4 innings on 8 hits. George Springer drove in a pair and Bo Bichette went yard for 2 runs.
• The Blue Jays were 3-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try for their 3rd straight win and to complete their 1st series sweep of the season. Yusei Kikuchi faces his former team. The Mariners will counter with righty Logan Gilbert.

Game #11 - Seattle Mariners (4-7) @ Toronto Blue Jays (5-6) - game recap

 

Jose Berrios threw 6.2 shutout innings in a 5-2 win over their expansion cousins, the Seattle Mariners in their2024 home opener at the newly renovated Rogers' Centre

After a tough ten game road trip that saw a mostly subpar offence,  2 series losses and a miraculous series split, the Blue Jays limped home to begin the home portion of their schedule against expansion cousins Seattle Mariners. The Blue Jays come home to the completed renovation project that included improved menu items, more comfortable seats with cup holders and more. The players will have a better training facility and family/friends of the players will see an improved place to hang out while their spouses/fathers play ball. The Mariners and Blue Jays split the season series with the Mariners outscoring the Blue Jays 27-26. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday (Justin Turner served as DH tonight). Davis Schneider was in LF. Isiah Kiner-Falefa was at the hot corner and Cavan Biggio was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the two game skid and start the home portion of the schedule with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.