The Blue Jays entered tonight’s game with an opportunity to win their fourth straight series and guarantee at least a .500 record during their twelve-game stint against the Yankees and Red Sox. Starter J.A. Happ looked shaky through the first few innings, missing his spots and giving up a double in each of the first two innings, the second of which would come around to score to give the Yankees an early 1-0 lead. The Jays would tie the game in the bottom of the fourth inning when Justin Smoak hit a solo home run. The teams would trade outs until the bottom of the seventh inning, when a two-out base hit by Kevin Pillar brought home Edwin Encarnacion to take the lead. Both Pillar and Devon Travis would come into score on a single by Darwin Barney, who impressed both at the plate and with his glove in this game.
Top Play of the Game by WPA
The two teams would take a 1-1 tie into the seventh, when Edwin Encarnacion doubled off C.C. Sabathia to lead off the bottom of the inning. Justin Smoak struck out swinging, Russell Martin flied out to left field, and Devon Travis drew a two-out walk to bring Kevin Pillar to the plate. Ahead 2-1 in the count, Pillar singled to right, scoring Encarnacion to provide the top play of the game (WPA .218).
Bottom Play of the Game by WPA
The Jays had multiple opportunities to score before they broke out in the seventh inning. Ezequiel Carrera lead off the sixth inning with a ground ball single to right, which was promptly erased when Jose Bautista grounded into a double play to third base, providing the bottom play of the game by WPA (-.108).
Superman Does it Again
Kevin “Superman” Pillar made another spectacular diving catch in the top of the fourth to rob Austin Romine of an extra-base hit, highlighting once again why he is a leading candidate to win the gold glove.
Trend to Watch
Whether it’s the open roof or the fact that all slumps must eventually come to an end, the Jays’ offense seems to be firing on all cylinders as of late, particularly from the bottom of the lineup. Though they’re not scoring runs at the same pace as last season, the offensive upswing combined with the solid (if not stellar) pitching from Jays’ starters have put this team on an upward trajectory.
Up Next
The Blue Jays will look for a sweep as they wrap up their series against the Yankees tomorrow. Aaron Sanchez (4-1, 3.29), will face off against Masahiro Tanaka (3-0, 2.89)
Lead Photo: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports