The Blue Jays are up 2-0 in the ALDS after a 13-7 victory over the Yankees. Toronto has scored 23 runs in two games, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting a grand slam and Daulton Varsho contributing two homers today. Yankees pitcher Max Fried struggled, allowing seven earned runs.
Blue Jays’ Dominance in ALDS
Despite a strong offensive showing from the Yankees late in the game, the Blue Jays’ starting pitcher Trey Yesavage was impressive. In only his fourth MLB appearance, he recorded 11 strikeouts and did not allow a hit over 5 1/3 innings. The decision to take him out after 78 pitches aimed to preserve him for future games. The Jays are one win away from advancing to the ALCS; Game 3 is scheduled for Tuesday at Yankee Stadium.
AL East Team Updates
Rays’ assistant GM Carlos Rodriguez announced his departure from the organization. He has been with Tampa for 15 years, previously serving in various scouting roles. The club is expected to promote someone from within to fill his position, and the new ownership likely won’t change the baseball operations team.
In the Yankees’ round against the Blue Jays, Luke Weaver achieved a small victory by retiring the only batter he faced after struggling in prior outings. He admitted to over-adjusting in an effort to avoid tipping his pitches. Meanwhile, the Orioles have had a tough season, prompting speculation that they should pursue Cody Bellinger this winter for added experience.
Speculation About Offseason Moves
Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com suggested the Orioles target Cody Bellinger for their offseason strategy, though this is purely speculative. They’ve not previously been linked with Bellinger during his free agency. Bellinger would be a significant financial commitment for the Orioles under Mike Elias, who has previously made only one multi-year free agent signing.
The organization’s recent eight-year extension for Samuel Basallo suggests they may be more willing to spend in the near future.
