The Toronto Blue Jays secured a thrilling 5-4 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals in 10 innings, showcasing their resilience once again. The game featured a dramatic game-tying home run by Clase in the ninth inning, powerfully hit 415 feet, which set the stage for a comeback victory. Although some fans expressed a desire for a pinch hitter in crucial moments, Clase’s performance ultimately delivered the excitement needed.
Starting pitcher Jose Berrios gave an outstanding performance, completing 6.2 innings and allowing only one run on four hits, while striking out one batter. The Jays appeared to be in control with a 3-0 lead until the eighth inning, where relief pitcher Yariel Rodriguez struggled, giving up a single and a three-run homer to Iván Herrera that flipped the tide and put the Cardinals ahead momentarily.
The Blue Jays showed tenacity, especially in the ninth, where they leveled the score before heading into extra innings. Key performances included Alejandro Kirk, who notched four hits, including two doubles and a home run, and was instrumental in bringing in runs. Although the Jays had 13 hits and left some chances on the table, they managed to clinch the win in the 10th with strategic plays, including Barger being brought home by Kirk’s double.
Jays’ closer Jeff Hoffman played a crucial role in securing the victory, registering his 16th save by holding the Cardinals scoreless in the bottom of the 10th.
Tomorrow, the Blue Jays look to carry this momentum into their next game against the Cardinals with Chris Bassitt on the mound, aiming for a win to continue building positive energy in the series. The team has shown it can navigate tight games, and the resilience displayed during this match offers hope for future performances.