The Blue Jays beat the Tigers 6-2 to claim MLB's best record for the 2025 season. Now, Kevin Gausman duels Tarik Skubal in a huge Saturday matchup in Detroit.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Good morning, Blue Jays Nation, and what a morning it is. For the first time this season, you can wake up knowing your Toronto Blue Jays officially hold the best record in all of Major League Baseball. After dispatching the Tigers last night, the Jays climbed to a stellar 62-42, a testament to a blistering July run. But there's no time to rest on their laurels, as a formidable challenge awaits today in the form of Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.
It’s a testament to the consistency and mentality of this group... we know the job isn't finished.
What a ride it's been. After their 6-2 victory over Detroit on Friday, the Blue Jays leapfrogged the Brewers and Astros to claim sole possession of MLB's top spot. This achievement is the culmination of a dominant month where the team has gone 18-4. The offense has been simply unstoppable, leading the majors in runs per game, OBP, and OPS in July, all while striking out less than any other team. Manager John Schneider praised the team's focus, acknowledging the milestone while stressing that the ultimate goal is still ahead. It's a massive accomplishment that validates what fans have been seeing: this team is a legitimate powerhouse.
Today's game in Detroit presents a classic unstoppable-force-meets-immovable-object scenario. The Jays' red-hot lineup faces one of the best pitchers in the American League, Tarik Skubal. The Tigers' left-hander has been lights out, boasting a 10-3 record, a minuscule 2.19 ERA, and a staggering 164 strikeouts. On the mound for Toronto is the veteran Kevin Gausman, who's been a reliable workhorse (7-7, 4.01 ERA) but will need to be sharp to outduel Skubal. While the Tigers are mired in a five-game losing streak, Skubal is the kind of pitcher who can single-handedly stop the bleeding and halt the Jays' momentum.
To support the pitching staff, the Blue Jays made a move this morning, recalling right-hander Yerry Rodriguez from Triple-A Buffalo. He'll provide a fresh arm and immediate depth for the bullpen. This move is especially timely given the latest injury updates. While RHP Paxton Schultz is reportedly scheduled to pitch again today and could be an option for the big-league club soon, others remain on the shelf. Yimi García's ankle injury will keep him from throwing until at least early August, and Nick Sandlin is being re-evaluated for his elbow inflammation. Keeping the bullpen fresh and effective is paramount, and Rodriguez's arrival is a welcome sight.
The Blue Jays have earned their spot atop the baseball world, but staying there is the real challenge. Tonight's duel against Tarik Skubal is more than just another game; it's a statement opportunity. With the trade deadline looming and key arms still on the mend, how Toronto handles this test will tell us a lot about their readiness for a deep postseason run. All eyes are on Detroit.
