The Toronto Blue Jays secured an emphatic 8-1 victory over the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night at Rogers Centre, showcasing their offensive firepower even without star slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Guerrero missed his second consecutive game after being hit by a pitch on his right elbow during Sunday's contest. The team announced he is day-to-day.
Grand Slam Breaks Open the Game
The turning point came in the sixth inning when Jesus Sanchez launched a grand slam off his former team, breaking the game wide open. The blast, his first career grand slam, highlighted a six-run frame that put the game out of reach. Sanchez, who was acquired by the Blue Jays in a trade earlier this season, finished with five RBIs.
Ernie Clement also homered, and Yohendrick Pinango added a solo shot to right field, atoning for a defensive miscue the previous night. The Blue Jays pounded out 12 hits, including three home runs, while their bullpen delivered a strong performance in a planned bullpen game.
Pitching Shines in Bullpen Game
Right-hander Braydon Fisher served as the opener for the third time this season, tossing a scoreless first inning with one strikeout and one hit allowed. He has yet to allow a run in his three opening appearances. Spencer Miles, a Rule 5 draft pick, followed with three strong innings, allowing one unearned run on three hits while striking out two. Adam Macko and Tanner Andrews closed out the game, with Andrews making his second major league appearance.
The bullpen game was necessitated by injuries to the starting rotation, including Shane Bieber (elbow) and Jose Berrios (elbow surgery), as well as Cody Ponce (knee surgery). Patrick Corbin has been a steady presence, but the team continues to rely on creative solutions.
Springer Heating Up
George Springer, playing through a broken big toe, continued to show his trademark grit. He singled to raise his average to .203 and was aggressive on the bases, scoring a run. His veteran leadership remains invaluable as the Blue Jays look to climb above .500.
Up Next
The Blue Jays and Marlins conclude their three-game series Wednesday afternoon at 1:07 p.m., with Kevin Gausman taking the mound for Toronto. Gausman is coming off a strong start against the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he struck out eight batters. The Blue Jays then embark on a seven-game road trip, beginning Thursday in Baltimore.
With the win, Toronto improved to 26-29, while Miami fell to 26-30. The Blue Jays are 5-8 against AL East opponents and 8-10 in interleague play this season.
