The Toronto Blue Jays concluded their April schedule with a disappointing 7-1 loss to the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in Minneapolis on Thursday night. The defeat highlighted ongoing issues for the reigning American League champions, who finished the first month of the season with an 11-15 record.
Gausman Struggles Against Twins
Starting pitcher Kevin Gausman had a solid start through three innings, even holding a 1-0 lead thanks to a solo home run from Daulton Varsho in the fourth. However, the Twins quickly turned the game around. Ryan Jeffers launched a two-run homer in the bottom of the fourth, and Byron Buxton added a solo shot in the sixth, ending Gausman's night. He exited after 5.2 innings, allowing four earned runs on four hits, two walks, and two strikeouts. The four earned runs marked a season high for Gausman, who threw 94 pitches.
Offensive Woes Continue
The Blue Jays' offense struggled to generate momentum, managing only one run on Varsho's homer. The team's record now stands at 14-17 overall, with a 1-3 mark against the Twins this season. Defensive errors also plagued Toronto, as throwing mistakes from third baseman Kazuma Okamoto and shortstop Andres Gimenez contributed to two eighth-inning runs for Minnesota, sealing the loss.
Bright Spots and Reinforcements
Despite the loss, there were some positive developments. George Springer, returning from a broken toe, played his first full game and recorded two singles in four at-bats. The Blue Jays also welcomed pitching prospect Trey Yesavage, who made an impressive 2026 debut earlier in the week. Manager John Schneider announced that starting pitcher Jose Berrios is nearing a return, scheduled to throw a bullpen session with triple-A Buffalo on Friday. Infielder Addison Barger, out since April 5 with an ankle injury, is also progressing and may begin a rehab assignment with class-A Dunedin as early as Sunday.
Looking Ahead
The four-game series in Minneapolis continues Friday with Patrick Corbin on the mound, followed by Dylan Cease on Saturday. The finale on Sunday could feature either Berrios or Yesavage. After that, the Blue Jays travel to St. Petersburg, Florida, for a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays at the renovated Tropicana Field.
