Last night, the New York Yankees were in Toronto to face the Blue Jays. It was an important game as Aaron Judge could hit his 61st homer, tying a record in American League and Yankees history.
Then, with a win, the Bombardiers could secure a top spot in the East Division.
But in the end, John Schneider and his men made sure to prevent the Yankees celebrations on both counts. Everything will have to start over tonight and tomorrow night, but hey.
The Blue Jays’ magic number to secure a playoff spot, more than a week from the end of the season, is therefore 3.
As for the Yankees, the magic number to secure the division title is still 2.
Aaron Judge didn’t really get a good shot, especially from a Kevin Gausman who had a strong game, but he’s still been on the trails three times. Yes, he was struck out twice, but he placed the ball in a safe place and he walked twice.
Actually, no: he walked a base…and was intentionally walked. It was an 18th for him this season.
In the 10th inning, with the first two bases full and two outs on the clock, John Schneider made a big decision by intentionally walking the best hitter in MLB this year.
He had just released Anthony Bass in favor of left-hander Tim Mayza and so it was to face left-hander Anthony Rizzo, who eventually got called off hitting at first base.
Judge wasn’t sure if he was going to be challenged since he considers himself “not hitting well against lefties this year,” despite having seventh-best OPS in the league against left paws.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. did not receive the same treatment. With two outs and with Cavan Biggio stationed at second base, he was faced, him.
And it was a mistake. He hit a game-winning hit.
The Blue Jays, who signed a third straight win, were satisfied. Bullpen management was good, the hitters did their job, the manager managed, and the Yankees saw their seven-game winning streak come to an end.
It pleased Vladdy, who again repeated that the Rogers Center was “his home”.
Both teams are setting the stage for a potential playoff matchup. It would be a clash of the titans to see the two clubs face off.
But in the short term, the Jays’ goal will be to secure home-court advantage. And they went well…
- That’s a beautiful hoodie.
- Vladdy can’t wait to experience the playoffs.
- How can the Braves produce so many good players?
