Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 12, 2024 6:17 pm GMT
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher José Berríos bounced back from a challenging season with a stellar performance, leading his team to a 7-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. In this game, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. reached an impressive milestone by securing his 500th career run batted in (RBI), making him the youngest player in Blue Jays history to achieve this feat at just 25 years old.
Dominant Performance from Berríos
Berríos, now with a record of 16-9, has found his rhythm, winning his seventh consecutive start. The right-handed pitcher showcased his skills by allowing only two hits and one run over seven innings. Reflecting on his turnaround, Berríos credited a midseason conversation with his family for helping him regain his focus.
“I talked with my family, my father, my brother,” he shared. “I wanted to be a leader on this team.”
This run is notable as it ranks as the third-longest winning streak in Blue Jays history, trailing only Roy Halladay’s 11 consecutive wins in 2003 and Roger Clemens’ eight in 1997.
Manager’s Praise
Toronto manager John Schneider highlighted Berríos’ ability to adapt during games.
“I think he has a really good ability to see what’s working for him on a particular start,” Schneider said, adding that the pitcher’s effective breaking ball played a crucial role in the win.
Guerrero Jr. Makes History
In addition to Berríos’ brilliance, Guerrero Jr. made history by registering his 500th career RBI. This milestone made him the youngest player in Blue Jays history to reach this achievement, surpassing Lloyd Moseby, who did it at age 27 in 1987.
“His year has separated him from others,” Schneider commented. “He’s a really good hitter who understands how to drive in runs.”
Key Plays in the Game
The game was tightly contested until a decisive fourth inning when the Blue Jays exploded with a four-run sixth. Here are some key moments:
- Nathan Lukes led off the inning with a single which set the tone.
- Guerrero walked, loading the bases before Ernie Clement’s grounder resulted in a throwing error by shortstop Masyn Winn, allowing Lukes to score.
- Alejandro Kirk contributed with a groundout that brought Guerrero home.
- Addison Barger and Davis Schneider each added singles, increasing the score to a comfortable 5-1.
The Blue Jays extended their lead in the seventh, with Guerrero driving in Lukes before Kirk added another run with an RBI single.
Notable Contributions
Davis Schneider also played a key role in the game with three hits and two RBIs, including his first home run since June 22. This performance has shown Schneider’s resilience and importance to the team.
“I’m glad the home run jacket still fits,” Schneider joked, referring to the celebratory jacket worn by Blue Jays players after hitting home runs.
Injury Update
Before the game, the Blue Jays scratched shortstop Leo Jimenez due to a right index finger contusion. Jimenez had bunted for a single in a previous game, but the injury has kept him out of action.
Looking Ahead
The Blue Jays will meet the Cardinals again on Sunday, with Yariel Rodriguez slated to start for Toronto against St. Louis right-hander Miles Mikolas. The team hopes to build on their current momentum after two strong performances.
Blue Jays fans have a lot to cheer about! Recently, the team has shown great talent and strength. Players like Berríos are playing really well, and Guerrero Jr. is breaking records. This is an exciting time, and there’s so much to look forward to as the season continues!
