Game #125 Texas Rangers (62-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-52) - game recap

 

George Springer hit a 2-run HR in a 10-4 loss to the Rangers

After blowing out the Rangers yesterday thanks to a huge 18-hit, 14-run outburst, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season. Ace Jose Berrios got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Addison Barger was in RF. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Marcus Semien whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Rowdy Tellez 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Alejandro Kirk belted a solo jack to left-center 
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 4th as Jake Burger singled scoring Semien 
• Two batters later,  Jonah Heim singled scoring Burger and Cody Freeman
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 5th as Cory Seager smacked a solo blast to the opposite field in left 
• Jose Berrios pitching line: 4.1IP 10H 6R (all earned) 0BB 2K 87 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 6th as Wyatt Langford hammered a 2-run bomb to the second deck in left; also scoring Josh Smith
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Vladimir Guerrero Jr hammered a solo bomb to the second deck in left-center 
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 8th as George Springer hammered a 2-run bomb to left-center; also scoring Myles Straw 
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 9th a s Evan Carter smashed a 2-run blast to right-center; also scoring Seager
• Final score: Rangers 10 Blue Jays 4

My Take: 

• Jose Berrios was lit up for 6 runs on 10 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over 4.1 innings. Could it be Jose Berrios that is relegated to bullpen status in the postseason.  Berrios can be very good or have clunkers like today where the opposition is not fooled but what he is offering. Plus, Berrios is prone to giving up the long ball (he was taken deep twice this afternoon).  There's no question he'll have a role in the postseason, but you can't be giving up home runs the way he has a tendency to do and you need to get out of innings efficiently. Unless he is really dialed in as he was in game 2 of the 2023 wild card series in Minnesota, he will be on a short leash and likely Eric Lauer will be asked to eat up a few innings. Lots of interesting decisions to be made as far as the playoff roster is concerned but the rotation and bullpen are arguably the most important pieces of the roster. 
• The bullpen gave up 5 runs on 6 hits while walking 4 and striking out 1 over the last 4.2 innings. It appears pitching could be a major issue for the Blue Jays come the postseason. Never mind figuring out who will close the game, the team actually needs a lead in the 9th inning. Louis Varland, who looked great his first few appearances in a Blue Jays uniform, has now given up a home run in two straight days. Mason Fluharty got the Blue Jays out of the 5th inning, but walked 2 batters in the process. Relievers need to throw strikes when they come into the game. The Blue Jays are going to need to manage the bullpen down the sttretch or the season will end like it did in 2022 when the bullpen blew an 8-1 lead in a game that saw the Mariners score 9 times in the last innings. That scenario could very well play out again given the pitchers continue to allow home runs and walk batters at inopportune times
• Offensively, Vlad, George Springer and Alejandro Kirk all went deep. Interesting that Vlad opted not to gloat and wear the home run jacket on his long ball. Perhaps it was because his home run made the score 8-2. I still think the jacket should be repurposed as a player of the game jacket handed out in the locker room, much like they do in the NHL. It would be much more meaningful and motivating than wearing it on a home run that may not impact the outcome, as was the case today.
• The Blue Jays were 0-3 with runners in scoring position
• The Blue Jays received help on the scoreboard with the Red Sox, Astros and Tigers all losing (although the Yankees won). This means the Blue Jays remain 1st in the AL East, 5 games up on the Red Sox and 5.5 games up on the Yankees. They also have the best record of the 3 division leaders, which would mean a bye to the divisional round and home field advantage through the ALCS.
• Up next, the Blue Jays hit the road, starting in Pittsburgh tomorrow night. The Blue Jays won the season series against the Pirates last year, but the Pirates outscored the Blue Jays 15-11. Kevin Gausman starts against Pirates righty and ace Paul Skenes.

Game #124 Texas Rangers (61-63) @ Toronto Blue Jays (73-51) - game recap

 

Myles Straw hit a pair of home runs and drove in 5 runs in a 14-2 rout over the Rangers 

After another comeback win thanks to a 4-RBI and first career stolen base from Alejandro Kirk, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 25th series win and 15th season series win of the season. George Springer was activated off the concussion IL (he served as DH today) and Joey Loperfido was optioned to AAA-ball. Eric Lauer got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Davis Schneider was in LF and Myles Straw was in RF. Ernie Clement was at the hot corner. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 25th series win and 15th season series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the bottom of the 2nd as Ernie Clement doubled scoring Bo Bichette 
• A batter later, Myles Straw belted a 3- run jack to left-center; also scoring Daulton Varsho and Clement
• Five batters later,  Bichette doubled scoring Andres Gimenez and Davis Schneider. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Was thrown out at home to end the inning on the play
• The Rangers got one back in the top of the 3rd as Jake Burger singled scoring Sam Haggerty
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Straw whacked a 2-run blast to left and into the Blue Jays bullpen; also scoring Varsho
• Patrick Corbin pitching line: 2.1IP 8H 7R (all earned) 2BB 2K 62 pitches (37 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a pair of runs in the bottom half of the inning as Varsho smacked a 2-run blast to right; also scoring Alejandro Kirk 
• Five batters later, Schneider was forced in on a basse loaded walk to Straw
• Eric Lauer pitching line: 5IP 4H 1R (earned) 3BB 4K 102 pitches (63 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th as Schneider drilled a 3-run bomb to left; also scoring Nathan Lukes and George Springer
• The Rangers got one back in the top of the 9th as Burger singled scoring Wyatt Langford
• Final score: Blue Jays 14 Rangers 2

My Take:

• Eric Lauer fired 5 innings, giving up a run on 4 hits while walking 3 and striking out 4. Lauer was battling in and out of jams all day, but limited the damage to one run. His continued solid play will likely mean the Blue Jays go to a 6-man rotation to finish the season. Lauer has earned a playoff start in my mind.
• The bullpen gave up a run on 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Nobody retired every batter faced, but Tommy Nance pitched 2 innings and Tyler Heineman, the Blue Jays designated position player pitcher, pitched the 9th. \
• Offensively, Myles Straw (2 HR, 5 RBI), Davis Schneider (3-run HR, 4 RBI, 2 runs scored), Daulton Varsho (2-run HR) and Bo Bichette (2RBI, run scored) did the damage
• Every Blue Jays starter reached base at least once and all but Vlad and Alejandro Kirk had a hit
• It was the 282th career win for manager John Schneider, who moved into 4th all-time for winningest Blue Jays manager. Cito Gaston is 1st with 894 wins. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to extend the win streak to 4 games and complete their 10th series sweep of the season. Ace Jose Berrios starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi

Game #123 Texas Rangers (61-62) @ Toronto Blue Jays (72-51) - game recap

 

Alejandro Kirk drove in 4 runs, including a 2-run HR in a 6-5 come-from-behind win over the Rangers

After edging the Cubs yesterday thanks to a strong start from Max Scherzer and a 2-run HR off the bat of Vlad, the Blue Jays were looking to extend the win streak to 2 games as they welcomed the Texas Rangers to town. The Blue Jays won the series in Texas back at the end of May, outscoring the Rangers 4-3. Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Joey Loperfido was in LF, Daulton Varsho was in CF and Nathan Lukes was in RF. Andres Gimenez got the start at 2B. Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd as Kyle Higashioka whacked a 3-run blast to left-center; also scoring Marcus Semien and Rowdy Tellez 
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 5IP 4H 3R (all earned) 4BB 4K 100 pitches (57 got strikes
• Jacob DeGrom pitching line: 5IP 2H 0R 0BB 5K 84 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays got a pair back in the bottom of the 7th as Alejandro Kirk whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right-center and into the  Rangers bullpen; also scoring Daulton Varsho
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 8th as Semien belted a 2-run jack to left-center; also scoring Evan Carter
• The Blue Jays got one back in the bottom half of the inning as Bo Bichette singled scoring Andres Gimenez
• Four batters later, Davis Schneider was forced in on a bases loaded walk to Varsho
• A batter later, Alejandro Kirk singled scoring Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect 9th for his 28th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Rangers 5

My Take:

• Chris Bassitt gave up three runs on four hits while walking four and striking out four. He had a tough 2nd inning, giving up a 3-run HR after walking a batter and striking out a batter. Home runs have been a big issue for the Blue Jays pitchers this season.  They have been taken deep 110 times thus far with only the Athletics surrendering more. Bassitt could be the odd man out once Shane Bieber returns from Tommy John surgery. He'll almost certainly be either left off the playoff roster entirely or relegated to the bullpen. 
• The bullpen gave up a run on 2 hits while walking 2 and striking out 7 over the last 4 innings. Jeff Hoffman, who was nasty tonight, and Yariel Rodriguez retired every batter they faced.
• The comeback kids did it again. The Blue Jays, led by Alejandro Kirk, who drove in 4 runs, including himself on a 2-run HR in the 7th inning. This team is never out of it and will be a dangerous team in the playoffs 
• The Blue Jays  were 2-9 with runners in scoring position.
• It is player's weekend this weekend, an annual event where the player's use specially designed bats and go by their nicknames. Originally it ran from 2017-2019, but was brought back last season. The teams wore special uniforms with color schemes similar to their everyday uniforms and in 2017 the uniforms had a tribute patch on the right sleeve for players to thank those who helped them get to the bigs (parents, sister, etc). In 2019, the uniforms were terrible with half the teams wearing all white and the other half wearing all black. You could not see the names or numbers on the back of the jerseys.This year and last year, players got to custom design their bats. The legue should bring back the colorful uniforms and keep the specially designed bats and cleats from the relaunch of this fun event.
• With the win, the Blue Jays maintained their 5-game lead for the AL East division title over the Red Sox, who won their game
• Up next, the Blue Jays try extend the win streak to 3 games and notch their 22nd series win and 15th season series win of the season. Eric Lauer starts against Rangers lefty Patrick Corbin

Game #55 Toronto Blue Jays (27-28) @ Texas Rangers (27--30) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette hit a 2-run HR in the 9th to lift the Blue Jays to a 2-0 shutout win over the Rangers

After a tough shutout loss due to the inept offense, the Blue Jays were looking to end the road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season. Paxton Schultz got the start with Ali Sanchez behind the plate. Anthony Santander got the half day off as DH with George Springer in RF and Nathan Lukes in LF. Bo Bichette was completely off after DH'ing yesterday (Ernie Clement was at SS). Could the Blue Jays end the road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Paxton Schultz pitching line: 2.2IP 1H 0R 0BB 4K 45 pitches (28 for strikes)
• Tyler Mahle pitching line: 6IP 4H 0R 3BB 5K 92 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 9th as Bo Bichette belted a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Ernie Clement
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 12th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Rangers 0

My Take:

• Paxton Schultz got the first 8 outs on the regularly scheduled bullpen day on what should be Max Scherzer's spot in the rotation, but the aging righty lasted just 3 innings in his first start and still has major hurdles to pass as he tries to get over the 50 pitch mark, the point where his thumb has started barking. Scherzer was a risky signing to begin with given his age and injury history. Since then the Blue Jays have pretty much been trying to cobble it together every 5 days. It hasn't helped that Bowden Francis, whose turn is the day before this start, hasn't been pitching more than 5 innings and if Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios or Chris Bassitt has a bad start, as happened to Bassitt over the weekend, it puts a lot of pressure on the bullpen every 5th day. Schultz isnt trusted to go more than once through the rotation. Other options like Eric Lauer and Easton Lucas have had varying degrees of success. The Blue Jays seem to like having the opener go through the lineup once and then turn it over to the next man up for the next few innings. This works ok if the opener is effective. The trouble occurs if the game goes to extra innings or a lot of pitchers are needed that day due to injury or ineffectiveness. It impacts the next few games. Here's hoping either Scherzer comes back soon, or Spencer Turnbull, currently building up in the minors, can end the vicious cycle of bullpen days every 5th day
• The bullpen was excellent again tonight, firing 6.1 shutout and hitless innings, walking three batters and striking out 9. The bullpen, when rested is capable of stealing games. However, they have had to be near perfect lately with how bad the offence has been
• Bo Bichette got a clutch 2-run HR in the 9th, That was about it offensively today
• Hitting witth runners in scoring position has absolutely been an achilles heel latey. The Blue Jays were 1-9 with runners in scoring position
• You have to think John Schneider is going to be the scapegoat soon on this disappointing season that is trending much like last year. Ross Atkins shouldn't be allowed to fire another manager, but this team needs a wakeup call and a new manager could do that. The Blue Jays have way too much invested in this season with the competitive window closing. 
• Up next, the Blue Jays return home where they will begin a series against the Athletics. The Blue Jays and A's split the season series last year, with the Blue Jays outscoring the A's 21-16. Ace Jose Berrios starts against A's lefty Jacob Lopez

Game #54 Toronto Blue Jays (26-28) @ Texas Rangers (27-29) - game recap

 

Bowden Francis threw 5 shutout innings in a 2-0 shutout loss to the Rangers

After eking out a win over the Rangers thanks to some excellent piching from Kevin Gausman and closer Jeff Hoffman, the Blue Jays were looking to make it 2 wins in a row, to get back to a .500 record and 7 series wins on the season. Bowden Francis got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer was back in the lineup and in LF after the complete day off yesterday. Vlad was back in the field after a half day off yesterday as DH (Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH today with Ernie Clement getting the start at SS). Could the Blue Jays extend the win streak to 2 games, get back to .500 and notch their 7th series win of the season? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• Nathan Eovaldi pitching line: 2IP 2H 0R 1BB 2K 39 pitches (22 for strikes)
• Bowden Francis pitching line: 5IP 3H 0R 1BB 6K 75 pitches (60 for strikes)
• The Rangers took the lead in the bottom of the 8th as Josh Jung singled scoring Sam Haggerty
• A batter later, Wyatt Langford scored on a throwing error by Alejandro Kirk on a failed pickoff attempt at 3rd base
• Robert Garcia pitched a perfect 9th for his 3rd save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 2 Blue Jays 0

My Take:

• Bowden Francis threw 5 shutout innings, scattering 3 hits, walking 1 and striking out 6. Francis retired 11 in a row at one point. Once again, John Schneider didn't trust his starter to get through an inning. He had several easy innings and could have managed getting through 6 innings
• The bullpen gave up 2 runs (1 unearned) on 3 hits while walking none and striking out 2 over the last 3 innings. Neither Yariel Rodriguez nor Chad Green retired every batter they faced
• The offense could not take advantage of any of their opportunities to score. Case in point, Bo Bichette led off the game with a double and was stranded at 2B.
• The Blue Jays were 0-10 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to end the disappointing road trip with a win and notch their 7th series win of the season. It will be another bullpen game with Eric Lauer either starting or getting the bulk innings. The Rangers will counter with righty Tyler Mahle

Game #53 Toronto Blue Jays (26-27) @ Texas Rangers (26-29) - game recap

 

Kevin Gausman pitched 8 strong innings in a 2-1 win over the Rangers

After an ugly shutout loss yesterday due to dreadful pitching and offense, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3-game skid and start the week with a win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Anthony Santander was back in the field in RF after missing several days and several days as DH as he nursed hip and shoulder ailments. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at 1B. Michael Stefanic got the start at 2B. Nathan Lukes was in LF and Daulton Varsho was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and start the week with a win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays took the lead in the top of the 1st as Daulton Varsked a solo blast to right
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 4th on a sac fly by Alejandro Kirk that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• The Rangers got one back in the bottom of the inning as Wyatt Langford whacked a solo blast to left
• Jacob deGrom pitching line: 5.2IP 5H 2R (both earned) 2BB 0K 81 pitches (50 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 8IP 5H 1R (earned) 0BB 6K 96 pitches (72 for strikes)
• Jeff Hoffman pitched a perfect 9th for his 11th save of the season
• Final score: Blue Jays 2 Rangers 1

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 8 excellent innings, giving up a run on 5 hits, walking none and striking out 6. Gausman retired 9 of the first ten batters he faced and his only mistake was to Wyatt Langford, who took him deep in the 4th inning. The 5th inning was the only time the Rangers got a runner into scoring position
• Jeff Hoffman threw a perfect inning to notch his 11th save of the season. This appearance was encouraging to see since he had been struggling of late and blown three saves. Like Yimi Garcia, Brandon Little and some other relievers, he has been used heavily early in the season with the starting pitchers having a shorter leash.
• The offense did enough to win today with Daulton Varsho going deep and Alejamdro Kirk driving in an insurance run on a sac fly. The lineup is still not set well since the top three in the order are hitting and the Blue Jays are getting little to no production from hitters 5-9 in the batting order. In fact, Anthony Santander, Ernie Clement, Michael Stefanic, and Nathan Lukes were a combined 0-12 with Lukes and Stefanic each managing to draw a walk. 
• The Blue Jays were 1-12 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays go for 2 straight wins and 7 series wins on the season. Bowden Francis starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi.

Game #153 Toronto Blue Jays (73-80) @ Texas Rangers (73-80) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a pair of solo HR and scored three times in a 4-0 shutout win over the Rangers

After a 2-0 loss yesterday after a poot showing from the offense which was unable to back up another strong start from Bowden Francis, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the two game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Bo Bichette's season has come to an end as he was placed on the 10 day IL with a right middle finger fracture. Jonatan Clase was recalled from AAA- ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. George Springer got the complete day off with Nathan Lukes in RF. Vlad got the half day off with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Ernie clement was at SS and Leo Jimenez was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays snap the 2- game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is today's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Blue jays opened the scoring in the top of the 2nd on a sac fly by Nathan Lukes that scored Addison Barger
• The Blue jays added a run in the top of the 3rd on a fielding error by Rangers 3B Ezequiel Duran on a ball hit by Leo Jimenez that scored Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
• Kumar Rocker pitching line: 3IP 2H 2R (1 earned) 4BB 5K 71 pitches (41 for strikes)
• Kevin Gausman pitching line: 5IP 0H 0R 1BB 6K 58 pitches (38 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 7th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to the 2nd deck in left
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 9th as Guerrero Jr. hammered a solo bomb to dead center
• Final score: Blue Jays 4 Rangers 0

My Take:

• Kevin Gausman threw 5 no-hit innings, walking 1 and striking out 6. He likely could have thrown a few more innings, but having the pitchers go into the off-season healthy is more important than chasing a no-hitter. Gausman's only blemish was a 1-out walk in the 5th inning. He retired the first 13 batters he faced. Gausman will get a final start in the last weekend of the season.
• The bullpen gave up 2 hits while walking none and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Genesis Cabrera gave up the hit that ruined the combined no-hit bid. Dillon Tate and Eric Swanson both retired every batter they faced
• Offensively it was the Vlad show. Arguably the team's best player this season hit a pair of solo home runs and scored three times. Nathan Lukes drove in the other run on a sac fly 
• There has to be major concerns over the health of Bo Bichette, who fractured a finger on a ground ball during warm-ups yesterday. He ends his season batting .277 (first time he finished a season batting below .500) with 4HR and 31RBI over 81 games and 311AB. he literally missed half the season due to injury, the vast majority of that time to a calf injury that put him on the IL three times
• The Blue Jays need to go 8-1 in the last 9 games to avoid their first losing season since 2019. Stranger things have happened, but given the opponents they face (the Rays at Tropicana and the Red Sox, who must pretty much win out to steal the last WC spot) chances are slim to none, Plus, the Blue Jays have not won more than 5 games in a row.
• Up next, the Blue Jays head to Tampa Bay where they will finish the road portion of the schedule where they started the season. The Rays have won 6 of the first 10 games of the season series, outscoring the Blue Jays 48-40. Jose Berrios starts against Rays lefty Tyler Alexander.

Game #103 - Texas Rangers (51-53) @ Toronto Blue Jays (47-56) - game recap

 

Ernie Clement drove in  a pair of runs, including the game-winning run in a 6-5 come-from-behind walkoff win over the Rangers

After an ugly 13-0 loss to the Rays last night where the Blue Jays were a disaster in every facet of the game, the Blue Jays were looking to rebound as they opened a weekend series against the  Texas Rangers, who won 6 of 7 in the season series last season, outscoring the Blue Jays 51-20.  Yimi Garcia was traded to the Mariners for outfielder Jonatan Clase, who was oprioned to AAA-ball. Garcia was 3-0 with 5 saves and a 2.70ERA in 29 appearances this season. Over parts of 3 seasons, Garcia was 10-9 with 9 saves and a 3.44ERA in 163 appearances. Ryan Burr was optioned to AAA-ball. Yerry Rodriguez and Zach Pop were  recalled from AAA-ball. Yusei Kikuchi made what is expected to be his final start in a Blue Jays uniform as he is expected to be moved ahead of next Tuesday's trade deadline. Danny Jansen, who could also be on the move, was behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF. Could the Blue Jays start the weekend with a win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Adolis Garcia single scoring Marcus Semien
• The Blue Jays took the lead in the bottom half of the inning as Spencer Horwitz doubled scoring George Springer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 
• A batter later, Ernie Clement doubled home Horwitz
• The Rangers tied it up in the top of the 3rd as Jonah Heim singled scoring Corey Seager and Robbie Grossman
• The Blue Jays retook the lead in the bottom of the 4th as Leo Jimenez singled scoring Davis Schneider
• The Rangers retook the lead in the top of the 5th as Garcia whacked a 2-run blast to the opposite field in right, just inside the right foul pole
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 4.2IP 8H 5R (all earned) 2BB 5K 96 pitches (62 for strikes)
• Andrew Heaney pitching line: 5IP 7H 4R (all earned) 1BB 4K 83 pitches (56 for strikes)
• The Blue Jays tied it in the bottom of the 7th on a sac fly by Danny Jansen that scored Springer
• The Blue Jays walked it off in the bottom of the 9th as Clement singled scoring Steward Berroa
• Final score: Blue Jays 6 Rangers 5

My Take:

• Yusei Kikuchi battled through 4.2 innings in what is likely his last start in a Blue Jays uniform. He got into quite a jam in the opening inning giving up a run on 3 hits and a walk. He was fortunate to  limit the damage to one run. It was the odd-numbered innings where he ran into trouble. He sent the Rangers back to the dugout 1-2-3 in the 2nd and 4th innings. I can see him being used in a bullpen role for a contending team, especially with the last couple of starts where he struggled.
• The good bullpen showed up today, limiting the Rangers to a pair of hits and a walk while striking out 4 over 4.1 innings. Chad Green, who could be moving back to the Bronx, pitched 1.1 perfect innings and struck out 2 and was credited with the win/ Zach Pop also retired every batter he faced.
•  Ernie Clement (2RBI, including on game winning run), Spencer Horwitz (2RBI, run scored) and Danny Jansen (game-tying sac fly) drove the offence tonight
• Every Blue Jays starter except Kevin Kiermaier had a hit tonight
• The Blue Jays were 4-9 with runners in scoring position
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to make it 2 straight wins and 9th series win of the season. Kevin Gausman starts against Rangers righty Michael Lorenzen

Game #147 - Texas Rangers (82-64) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-67) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit a 1st inning 2-run HR in a losing effort as the Rangers came from behind to rout the Blue Jays 9-2 

fter a terrible shutout loss to the Rangers yesterday,  the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 3- game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Matt Chapman was reinstated from the 10- day IL and was at the hot corner. Nathan Lukes was optioned to AAA-ball. Kevin Gausman got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio in RF. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF. Could the Blue Jays snap the 3-game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #146 - Texas Rangers (81-64) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-66) - game recap

 

Santiago Espinal had a pait of hits in a 10-0 shutout loss to the Rangers

After a 2nd straight loss to the Rangers due to the Blue Jays bullpen giving up 3 runs and the Rangers bullpen limiting the Blue Jays offense to 3 runs, the Blue Jays were looking to snap the 2-game skid. Yusei Kikuchi got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday.  Bo Bichette got the half day off as DH with Ernie Clement at SS. Santiago Espinal was at the hot corner. Daulton Varsho was in CF and Whit Merrifield was in LF. Could he Blue Jays avoid their 3rd straight loss? Here is tonight's game recap

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the top of the 4th as Jonah Heim singled scoring Corey Seagar
• A batter later, Nathaniel Lowe hammered a 3- run bomb to dead center; also scoring Heim and Robbie Grossman
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the top of the 5th as Grossman drilled a 2-run jack to left; also scoring Seagar
• Yusei Kikuchi pitching line: 5IP 5H 6R (all earned) 2BB 3K 89 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a run in the top of the 6th as Evan Carter singled scoring Lowe
• Jordan Montgomery pitching line: 7IP 4H 0R 1BB 3K 97 pitches (55 for strikes)
• The Rangers added 3 runs in the top of the 9th as mitch Garver hammered a 3-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Carter and Grossman
• Final score: Rangers 10 Blue Jays 0

My Take: 

• Yusei Kikuchi had a rough outing giving up 6 runs on 5 his while walking 2 and striking out three. While Kikuchi threw the same number of strikes as Rangers starter Jordan Montgomery (55), that was the only common factor between the two starting pitchers tonight. The big problem for Kikuchi tonight was the inability to keep the ball in the ballpark. In fact five of the Rangers 6 runs scored of him were from two home runs (a 3- run shot in the 4th inning and a 2- run jack in the 6th inning). Kikuchi looked good in the first three innings, n retiring nine of the ten batters faced.The Rangers adjusted second time through the order, scoring 6 runs on five hits and a walk.You can bet John Schneider and Co are evaluating all the pitchers (starters and relievers) to determine who makes the playoff roster. 
• The bullpen gave up 4 runs on 6 his while walking 2 and striking out 4 over the last 4 innings. Bowden Francis gave up a run and later,  Chad Green was taken deep for 3 runs.  Genesis Cabrera had s nice bounceback effort after giving up a grand slam in the series opener. Cabrera pitched a perfect 8th inning, retiring every Baggett he faced (he was the only pitcher to do so tonight.

• Offensively,  not much to write home about tonight. Through the first seven innings,  they had five total baserunners. They managed just one more baserunner in the last 2 innings that was erased by an inning ending double play. 
• In terms of the wild card race,  the Blue Jays received no help on the scoreboard with the Mariners and Astros both winning. The Blue jays are now completely out of a playoff spot, a game behind the Mariners and 1.5 games behind the Rangers. The Astros remain a game ahead of the Rangers and 1.5 games up on HR Mariners for the AL west division title. Mother nature may have given the Blue Jays an assist with the Red Sox game getting rained out forcing their second double header this week and in a span of less than 72 hours. They will no doubt be tried by the time they get to Toronto. ,
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to snap a 3 game skid and avoid being swept for the 4th time this season. Kevin Gausman starts against Rangers righty Nathan Eovaldi 

Game #145 - Texas Rangers (80-64) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-65) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio drove in a run and scored a run in a 6-3 loss to the Rangers 

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After a loss to the Rangers thanks to rough outings from Chris Bassitt and Genesis Cabrera,  the Blue Jays were looking to even this crucial series. Brandon Belt was placed on the 10 day IL with Kumar spine muscle spasms. Nathan Lukes was recalled from AAA- ball. Hyun-Jin Ryu got the start with Tyler Heineman behind the plate. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Spencer Horwitz at 1B. Could the Blue Jays even the series against the Rangers? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #144 - Texas Rangers (79-64) @ Toronto Blue Jays (80-64) - game recap

 

Cavan Biggio drove in a pair and scored twice in a losing effort as the Rangers came from behind to defeat the Blue Jays 10-4

After a huge series sweep over tbe Royals thanks some clutch hits and a dominant Royals starter suddenly going wild, the Blue Jays started a crucial week in their schedule with the Texas Rangers and Boston Red Sox both on the schedule. The week began with a 4-game series vs. the Rangers, who won two of three in Texas back in mid-June, outscoring the Blue Jays 16-11. Erik Swanson was reinstated from the 10 day IL. Jay Jackson was optioned back to AAA- ball.  Chris Bassitt got the start with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Bo Bichette was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Daulton Varsho was back in LF after the compete day off yesterday. Cavan Biggio was at the hot corner.  Could the Blue Jays make it four straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap. 

Game #73- Toronto Blue Jays (39-34) @ Texas Rangers (44-27) - game recap

 

Whit Merrifie;d drove in a pair and scored a run in a losing effort as the Rangrs came from behind to knock off the Blue Jay 11-7

First  of all,  happy father's day to our male members.After dropping the second game of the weekend set on a bullpen day, the Blue Jays were trying to escape Texas with their 14th series win of the season. Chris Bassitt was on the bump trying to avenge his worst start in a Blue Jays uniform with Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. Vlad was back in the field after DH'ing yesterday. Matt Chapman got the full day off with Santiago Espinal at the hot corner. Spencer Horwitz made his big league debut serving as DH. Could the Blue Jays escape Texas with a win and their 14th series win? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the first on a sac fly by Daulton Varsho that scored George Springer
• Alejandro Kirk had to leave the game after being hit in the hand by a Jon Gray fastball
• The Blue Jays added a pair of rings in the top of the 2nd as Whit Merrifield singled scoring Santiago Espinal and Spencer Horwitz
• A batter later, Bo Bichette doubled home Springer and Merrifield
• The Blue Jays added a run in the top of the 3rd on a ground out hit by Horwitz that scored Varsho
• Jon Gray pitching line: 2.1IP 6H 6R (all earned) 3BB 2K 56 pitches (34 for strikes)
• The Rangers got a pair back in the bottom half of the inning as Josh Jung singled scoring Nathaniel Lowe and Adolis Garcia.  Kevin Kiermaier was charged with a throwing error on the play
• The Rangers got a pair back in the bottom of the 4th as Corey Seagar doubled scoring Ezequiel Duran and Leody Taveras
• Two batters later, Garcia singled home Seagar
• Chris Bassitt pitching line: 3.2IP 7H 5R (3 earned) 3BB 2K 73 pitches (46 for strikes)
• The Rangers tied the game in the bottom of the 5th as Jonah Heim bashed a solo jack to right  
• Three batters later, Taveras singled scoring Mitch Garver
• A batter later,  Duran scored on a sac fly by Marcus Semien
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Springer singled scoring Kiermaier
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 7th as Taveras whacked a 2- run jack to right-center and into the Rangers bullpen; also scoring Duran
• Two batters later, Seagar singled scoring Semien
• Final score: Rangers 11 Blue Jays 7

My Take:

• It was another rough start for Chris Bassitt,  who gave up five runs (three earned thanks to a throwing error by Kevin Kiermaier) on seven hits while walking three and striking out two.  To be fair, Bassitt had to pitch to two different catchers after Alejandro Kirk had to leave the game after getting hit by a pitch at the start of the second inning.  He was also victimized by sloppy defense (an uncharacteristic throwing error by Kiermaier and a bloop single that dropped between three fielders). Nonetheless,  Bassitt did not have his best stuff today and will no doubt be searching for answers between starts this week.
• The bullpen wasn't much better,  giving up a further six runs on eight hits while walking three and striking out four.  Nate Pearson and Adam Cimber were both taken deep.  Yimi Garcia was the only pitcher not to allow a baserunner.
• Offensively, the Blue Jays jumped out to a 6-0 lead after their 3rd turn at the plate thanks to clutch hits from Whit Merrifield and Bo Bichette, as well as a sac fly by Daulton Varsho and RBI groundout by Spencer Horwitz. The blue jays had little response after the Rangers came back to take the lead over the next three innings.  They would get one back in the 6th inning but just three base runners after that inning
• Here's hoping Alejandro Kirk doesn't miss too much time since they don't have a viable third catcher they trust.  When Danny Jansen went down with a groin strain,  Tyler Heineman was recalled and played five games. In most of those games Kirk went back behind the plate. The fact that there is no fracture means Kirk won't need to miss several weeks.  I can see him missing the first two games of the series that starts tomorrow in Miami, and perhaps Heineman is recalled as insurance in case he is needed for Wednesdays matinee. 
• Spencer Horwitz had a strong start to his big league career,  getting his first major league hit in his first big league AB on a sharp single.  He would later score his his career run that inning.  In his next AB, Horwitz got his first career RBI, on a groundout.  He later drew his first career walk and struck out twice.  Horwitz has earned another start. 
• Up next,  the Blue Jays head to Miami to finish off the road trip and stretch of 13 games in 13 days. In 2021, the Blue Jays swept the 4 game season series, outscoring the Marlins 16-8. Jose Berrios starts against Marlins righty Bryan Hoeing.q

Game #72- Toronto Blue Jays (39-33) @ Texas Rangers (43-27) - game recap

 

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a pair of hits and drove in a run in a losing effort as the Rangers came from behind to double up the Blue Jays 4-2

After narrowly defeating the Rangers on the back of a 2-run blast from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were going for their second straight win and 14th series win of the season. Trevor Richards got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Kevin Kiermaier was in CF and Daulton Varsho was in LF. Whit Merrifield got the start at 2B. Vlad got the half day off as DH with Cavan Biggio at 1B. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins and notch their 14th series win of the season? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Blue Jays opened the scoring in the top of the 1st as Vladimir Guerrero Jr singled scoring Bo Bichette
• The Rangers took the lead in the bottom of the 2nd as Josh Jung hammered a 2-run bomb to dead center; also scoring Adolis Garcia
• A batter later, Jonah Heim belted a solo jack to right-center
• The blue jays hot one back in the top of the 4th as Daulton Varsho smashed a solo blast to right-center
• Trevor Richards pitching line: 3IP 3H 3R (all earned) 1BB 2K 65 pitches (36 for strikes)
• Dane Dunning pitching line: 6IP 6H 2R (both earned) 1BB 3K 89 pitches (61 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a run in the bottom of the 7th as Corey Seagar drilled a solo bomb to dead center
• Will Smith pitched a scoreless 9th for his 12th save of the season
• Final score: Rangers 4 Blue Jays 2

My Take: 

• Trevor Richards was not quite as effective today as his last outing in an opener role.  Like a week ago,  Richards pitched three innings.  Only this time,  the Rangers took him deep for three runs in the second inning.  Richards threw 65 pitches - about 15 more than last time.  The Blue Jays could opt to continue to build Richards up as a traditional starter since Manoah will not be back in the majors for a while and three is no certainty on Ryu and if he can handle being a starting pitcher coming out Tommy John surgery.  He started his career as a starting pitcher, but was mostly awful in that role
• The rest of the bullpen had mixed results.  Yimi Garcia continues to have a subpar season. The Rangers took him deep in the 7th inning and got three more hits off him.  Adam Cimber, in his first appearance coming off the paternity list,  was excellent,  recording five outs and striking out one. Bowen Francis threw 2.2 scoreless innings,  walking three, striking out 2 and also giving up a base hit. 
• Offensively,  Vlad opened the scoring with an RBI single,  but later was gunned down at home to end the inning.  Daulton Varsho went yard in the 4th to get the Blue Jays within a run.  They tried to rally in the 9th, but Danny Jansen lined out to center and Santiago Espinal struck out swinging to end the game.
• Up next, the Blue Jays try to notch their 14th series win of tee season. Chris Bassitt starts against Rangers righty Jon Gray

Game #139- Toronto Blue Jays (78-61) @ Texas Rangers (60-79) - game recap

 

Teoscar Hernandez drove in the only Blue Jays run in a 4-1 loss to the Rangers

After outslugging the Rangers yesterday, the Blue Jays were looking for their 6th series sweep of the year and 4th straight win ahead of a HUGE homestand with 5 in 4 games against the Rays, including a double header Tuesday to make up the postponed series due to the lockout and three next weekend against the Orioles - two teams the Blue Jays are battling for a WC spot. But first, they would no doubt like to wrap up the road trip on a winning note against ex-teammate Marcus Semien. Teoscar Hernandez returned from the paternity list and got the start in LF. Otto Lopez was optioned back to AAA-ball. It was a bullpen day today with Trevor Richards getting the start and Alejandro Kirk behind the plate. George Springer got the half day off as DH with Jackie Bradley Jr. in CF. Whit Merrifield got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays make it 4 straight wins and 6 series sweeps? Here is today's game recap.

Game Highlights:

• The Rangers opened the scoring in the bottom of the 1st as Nathaniel Lowe doubled scoring Corey Seagar
• Trevor Richards pitching line: 0.1IP 3H 1R (earned) 1BB 1K 26 pitches (15 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a pair of runs in the bottom of the 3rd as Adolis Garcia hammered a 2-run bomb to left; also scoring Lowe 
• The Blue Jays got one back in the top of the 6th as Teoscar Hernandez doubled home Bo Bichette 
• Martin Perez pitching line: 6IP 6H 1R (earned) 2BB 7K 97 pitches (59 for strikes)
• The Rangers added a run in the bottom of the 8th as Leody Taveras bashed a solo jack to right 
• Jose Leclerc pitched a scoreless 9th for his 4th save of the season

My Take:

• Trevor Richards had a rough outing as an opener. He got through two innings in Pittsburgh as an opener. Today, he managed just one out, giving up a run on 3 hits while walking one and striking out one. He'll almost certainly next pitch Tuesday in the double header 
• The rest of the bullpen had mixed results. Yusei Kikucki and Anthony Bass were both taken yard for 3 runs combined. David Phelps and Zack Pop both threw 1.1 innings and struck out a batter each. Julian Merryweather gave up a hit over two innings and struck out a batter. All in all, could have been worse, could have been better 
• Teo came off the paternity list and drove in the only Blue Jays run
• Bo Bichette scored that lone run and had a hit in 4AB
• In terms of the WC race, The Orioles and Rays both lost and the Mariners were winning. The Blue Jays are in a good position heading into this week. They are in the 3rd WC spot and now have a solid 5.5 game lead on the Orioles and are 0.5 games back of the Mariners and Rays for the 1st WC spot.
• Up next, the Blue Jays open a HUGE home stand against the Rays, who have won 6 of the 10 meetings in the season series so far and have outscored the Blue Jays 40-35. Jose Berrios starts Monday for the Blue Jays. The Rays have not set their rotation for the serie3s yet.

Game #138- Toronto Blue Jays (78-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-79) - game recap

 

Santiago Espinal drove in three runs and scored another in an 11-7 win over the Rangers

After winning yesterday on a late clutch hit from Danny Jansen, the Blue Jays were going for season series win #10,  series win #21 and their 3rd straight win. Kevin Gausman got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate. Same lineup as yesterday except Cavan Biggio got the start in RF. Could the Blue Jays notch their 21st series win, 10th season series win and 3rd straight win? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #137- Toronto Blue Jays (77-60) @ Texas Rangers (59-78) - game recap

 

Danny Jansen drove in the winning run in the top of the 9th as the Blue Jays edged the Rangers 4-3

After an off-day yesterday, the Blue Jays opened a series against the Rangers. The Blue Jays took 2 of 3 in the season-opening series back in Toronto. The Rangers actually outscored the Blue Jays 23-20 in that series. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was placed on the 10-day IL with a left hamstring strain. Otto Lopez was recalled  to take his roster spot. Ross Stripling got the start with Danny Jansen behind the plate.. George Springer was back in the field after DH'ing Wednesday. Raimel Tapia was in LF and Jackie Bradley Jr. was in RF. Alejandro Kirk served as DH. Could the Blue Jays make it two straight wins? Here is tonight's game recap.

Game #3 - Texas Rangers (1-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-1) - game recap

 

Matt Chapman hit a 3-run HR in a 12-6 loss to the Rangers 

The Blue Jays are living up to expectations very early in the season. They erased a 7-0 deficit and beat the Rangers 10-8 on opening night. They won yesterday on the strength of a solid pitching performance from Kevin Gausman, a lights out bullpen and enough offence to win the day. Today, the Blue Jays were looking to make a huge statement by sweeping the season-opening series. Hyun-Jin Ryu made his first start of the season. Danny Jansen was back behind the plate after a day off yesterday. George Springer got the half day off as DH. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. was back in LF after DH'ing yesterday. Raimel Tapia got the start in CF. Santiago Espinal was at 2B. Could the Blue Jays sweep the Rangers? Here is today's game  recap.

Game #3! Texas Rangers (0-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-0)

 

Spencer Howard (0-0) 0 ERA vs Hyun Jin Ryu (0-0) 0 ERA

1:07pm EST. Skydome, Toronto, Ontario. 

Game #2 - Texas Rangers (0-2) @ Toronto Blue Jays (2-0) - game recap

 

Bo Bichette was 2-4 with 2 runs scored and an RBI in a 4-3 victory over the Rangers

After a huge come-from behind victory yesterday after a disastrous start that saw the Blue Jays fall behind 7-0 at one point, the Blue Jays were looking to make it two wins in a row to start the 2022 season. Kevin Gausman started his first regular season game as a Blue Jay. Alejandro Kirk was his battery mate after DH'ing yesterday. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. got the half day off as DH with Raimel Tapia making his Blue Jays debut in LF. Could the Blue Jays make it two wins in a row to open 2022?