José Berríos dominates and Bo Bichette homers as the Blue Jays beat the White Sox 7-1 on June 22. See how Toronto's stars set up a crucial series win.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was one of those perfect baseball afternoons at the Rogers Centre. José Berríos was masterful, the bats came alive with thunderous homers from Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the Blue Jays cruised to a 7-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox. The win not only sets up a crucial series finale on Sunday but also adds fuel to the fire that this team is gearing up for a serious second-half push.
In a season-defining performance, José Berríos pitched 7 2/3 masterful innings, receiving a roaring standing ovation from the 41,488 fans in attendance.
After the bullpen was forced to cover seven long innings in Friday's loss, the Blue Jays desperately needed a deep start, and José Berríos delivered in spectacular fashion. 'La Makina' was practically untouchable, carving through the White Sox lineup for a season-high 7 2/3 innings. He allowed just two hits and a single unearned run while striking out five, earning his first win since May 29th. The performance was a masterclass in efficiency and control, giving the overworked bullpen a crucial day of rest and reminding everyone just how dominant he can be.
The offense provided more than enough support, led by the familiar power of its two biggest stars. Bo Bichette wasted no time, launching his third leadoff home run of the season (and sixth of his career) to get the party started. It was his 11th homer of the year, continuing a hot streak that has seen him hit three in the last five games. Not to be outdone, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. added his own blast in the seventh inning, a solo shot that marked his 10th of the season and restored the team's comfortable cushion. When these two are hitting for power, the entire dynamic of the team changes.
The box score almost looked different. Addison Barger was slated to be in the lineup before a late scratch due to a hip injury. In stepped Davis Schneider, and he made the most of the opportunity. 'Captain Clutch' delivered a 2-for-3 performance, driving in three of the team's seven runs. His RBI single in the second got the scoring going after Bo's homer, and his two-run double in the eighth put the game on ice. It was a fantastic 'next man up' performance that showcased the team's depth.
The action wasn't just confined to the field. The front office made some moves, calling up outfielder Nathan Lukes and righty Nick Sandlin while optioning Will Robertson and Justin Bruihl. These tweaks, combined with the team's recent success, are intensifying the belief that the Blue Jays will be aggressive buyers at the upcoming trade deadline. Reports suggest management is actively hunting for bullpen arms and outfield depth, signaling a clear intent to go for it all this season. The pieces are starting to move, both on the roster and behind the scenes.
With the series on the line, the Blue Jays will hand the ball to Chris Bassitt on Sunday afternoon, hoping to ride this wave of momentum. A series win against the White Sox would be another positive step as they gain ground in the competitive AL East. More than just a single game, Saturday's performance felt like a statement. The stars are hitting, the pitching is stepping up, and the front office is poised to make a splash. The next month is going to be fascinating for Blue Jays fans.
