The Toronto Blue Jays staged a stunning comeback at Wrigley Field on Saturday, erasing a 5-0 deficit with two three-run homers in the eighth inning to defeat the Chicago Cubs 8-6. The victory came one day after the Cubs pounded the Jays 16-2 in the series opener.
Eighth-inning explosion turns the tide
Trailing 5-3 entering the eighth, the Blue Jays loaded the bases with one out. Pinch-hitter Alejandro Kirk delivered a full-count single to make it 5-4, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. followed with a game-tying single. Two batters later, Kazuma Okamoto launched a three-run homer to put Toronto ahead 8-5. The Jays had scored six runs on just two hits, both three-run blasts. Daulton Varsho, activated from the injured list earlier in the day, also contributed a three-run homer in the seventh inning.
Varland secures six-out save
Reliever Louis Varland entered in the eighth with the bases loaded and no outs, tasked with recording six outs. He allowed only one run on a fielder's choice, then worked a scoreless ninth with the tying run at the plate to earn the save. Manager John Schneider praised Varland's poise in the high-leverage situation.
Corbin struggles again
Starter Patrick Corbin lasted just 3.2 innings, allowing five runs on seven hits. It was the third straight start in which he failed to complete four innings. The Blue Jays signed Corbin to a $1-million deal earlier this season, and while he has provided value overall, his recent outings have raised concerns. Lazaro Estrada, recalled from the 60-day injured list, gave up a two-run homer in the sixth inning that put Chicago ahead 5-0.
Outfield collision and defensive highlights
In the fourth inning, centre fielder Daulton Varsho and left fielder Myles Straw collided while chasing a deep fly ball to left-centre. Varsho held on for the out, and both players remained in the game. Nathan Lukes later made a sliding catch in right to end the inning. The outfield trio combined for several key defensive plays, including a Straw catch near the area made infamous by Steve Bartman in 2003.
Up next
Sunday's series finale is in doubt due to forecasted thunderstorms. The Blue Jays are expected to start Shane Bieber, who will make his season debut after recovering from injury. First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET.
