Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s 10th-inning double leads the Blue Jays to a 6-4 win over the Guardians on June 26. Gausman shines and Max Scherzer is activated.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when it looked like a hard-fought battle would end in heartbreak, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. reminded everyone why he's the heart of this lineup. Vladdy smashed a go-ahead RBI double in the top of the 10th inning, sparking a two-run rally that propelled the Toronto Blue Jays to a thrilling 6-4 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday night.
3-for-5 with 2 RBIs, including the game-winning double in the 10th inning.
This was a classic nail-biter at Progressive Field. Kevin Gausman was his usual workhorse self, battling for 6.2 innings and keeping the Jays in it with 8 strikeouts despite giving up three runs. The offense chipped away, highlighted by an unexpected solo blast from Ernie Clement. But after nine innings, the score was knotted at 4-4. Then came the 10th. Vladdy's laser double broke the tie, and George Springer provided a crucial insurance run with a sacrifice fly. Jordan Romano, pitching a clean ninth, vultured the win, and a returning Yimi García slammed the door for the save, showcasing the bullpen's resilience.
The win was thrilling, but the good news didn't stop there. The Blue Jays officially activated future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer from the 60-day IL just before the game. His veteran presence and ace-level stuff provide a monumental boost to a rotation that has weathered its share of storms. And speaking of reinforcements, Yimi García, who secured tonight's save, is himself on the verge of a full-time return from a shoulder impingement after a successful rehab outing. The front office is also adding depth, acquiring righty Robinson Piña from the Marlins to bolster the Triple-A Buffalo pitching staff. The message is clear: the team is gearing up for a serious second-half push.
While the injury report is looking much better, the team isn't completely out of the woods. Outfielder Anthony Santander (shoulder inflammation) has yet to resume hitting, and pitcher Bowden Francis (shoulder impingement) is shut down from throwing after a recent cortisone shot. Their steady return will be the next piece of the puzzle as the Jays look to get back to full strength.
With a hard-earned win streak, a dramatic victory under their belts, and star pitchers returning to the fold, the Blue Jays are radiating a new level of confidence. This win against a tough Guardians team felt like more than just another game; it felt like a statement. As they look to close out the series and head into the weekend, the momentum is undeniably on Toronto's side. The pieces are coming together at just the right time.
