The Toronto Blue Jays achieved a significant milestone by surpassing the .500 mark for the first time since April 21, following a commanding 11-7 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Friday night. This victory also marked the Blue Jays’ fifth consecutive win at home, improving their season record to 29-28.
Ernie Clement led the charge with a standout performance, hitting a home run to lead off the third inning and accumulating four hits while crossing the plate twice. Addison Barger contributed as well, adding to the scoreboard with a home run in the sixth inning that helped solidify the Blue Jays’ lead.
On the mound, Chris Bassitt secured his fifth win of the season, pitching five innings where he struck out six while giving up five runs on seven hits and two walks. In contrast, Jeffrey Springs of the Athletics only managed to last two innings, allowing six earned runs along with six hits and six walks, contributing to the team’s ongoing struggles—having lost 15 of their last 16 games.
A highlight of the game came from Athletics center fielder Denzel Clarke, a native of Toronto, who made an impressive defensive play by robbing Alejandro Kirk of a potential home run in the fourth inning.
Notably, the Blue Jays scored double digits in runs for the second game in a row, following their dominant 12-0 victory over the Athletics the previous night.
Looking ahead, the Athletics are set to start RHP Gunnar Hoglund, while the Blue Jays have yet to announce their starting pitcher for Saturday’s game.
This ongoing success for the Blue Jays could signal a positive turning point in their season as they continue to build momentum and strive for a playoff spot.