The Toronto Blue Jays rediscovered their rhythm Friday night, holding off a late surge from the Oakland Athletics to secure a 7–6 win at Sutter
Health Park in Sacramento. After seeing their 10-game win streak snapped earlier in the week, Toronto bounced back with resilience, anchored by a vintage performance from veteran pitcher Max Scherzer.
Scherzer Delivers, Offense Comes Alive
Making just his third start since returning from injury, the 40-year-old Scherzer pitched six strong innings, allowing two runs and striking out eight. It marked his first win in nearly a year, and a crucial step forward for a Toronto rotation that has struggled with consistency.
“I’ve waited a long time for this,” Scherzer said postgame. “To get back out there and help the team win—it feels amazing.”
Offensively, the Blue Jays exploded in the fifth inning, scoring six runs—four of which came after a fielding error by A’s second baseman Zack Gelof. George Springer, who sparked the inning by reaching on that error, later stole home on a botched throw, highlighting Toronto’s aggressive baserunning and capitalizing on Oakland’s miscues.
Guerrero Jr. Hits Milestone
Among the game’s brightest moments was Vladimir Guerrero Jr. recording his 1,000th career hit with a line-drive single to left in the fifth. The All-Star first baseman tipped his helmet to the crowd as teammates emerged from the dugout to congratulate him.
“It’s a blessing,” Guerrero said. “To reach this milestone with this group—my family on and off the field—means everything.”
A’s Rally Falls Short
Despite falling behind 7–0, the A’s clawed back into the game. A three-run seventh inning, powered by Tyler Soderstrom’s two-run double, gave Oakland life. They added another run in the eighth and came within a single score in the ninth, but closer Jordan Romano shut the door, earning his 23rd save of the season.
Oakland manager Mark Kotsay praised his team’s fight: “We showed grit out there. You hate to lose, but there were positives to build on.”
Looking Ahead
The win improves Toronto’s record to 54–38, keeping them in the thick of the American League East race. They’ll look to build on this momentum Saturday as Kevin Gausman (6–6, 4.13 ERA) takes the mound. The A’s, now 37–56, will counter with left-hander Jacob Lopez (2–5, 4.26 ERA) as they try to even the series.
Final Word
This game was a reminder of what the Blue Jays can be when firing on all cylinders: sharp on the mound, opportunistic at the plate, and dangerous on the basepaths. With Scherzer’s resurgence, Guerrero’s milestone, and a deep offense coming alive, Toronto’s return to their winning ways looks more like a continuation of a postseason push than a mere rebound.
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