Trey Yesavage had an outstanding performance in his Major League debut, setting a record for Toronto with nine strikeouts. George Springer hit a crucial single in the 11th inning, securing the win for the Blue Jays against the Rays with a score of 2-1 on Monday night.
This victory extended the Blue Jays’ winning streak to five consecutive games, solidifying their lead in the American League East Division.
Yesavage, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher selected in last year’s amateur draft, impressed by allowing only one run, three hits, and two walks in five innings. Of his 69 pitches, 49 were strikes, demonstrating control and effectiveness on the mound. His average velocity was 94.6 mph, primarily utilizing his fastball, splitter, and slider.
The young pitcher managed to strike out nine batters, with six of his strikeouts coming from his splitter. In addition, he induced 19 swings and misses, showing his ability to unbalance opposing hitters.
Springer Decides the Game
In the 11th inning, Springer singled with two outs and two strikes against Kevin Kelly, driving in the winning run. This crucial hit allowed Toronto to improve their record to 10-4 in extra-inning games.
Braydon Fisher, a rookie pitcher, secured the victory by getting six outs. Although he allowed a single by Yandy Díaz at the start of the 11th inning, he managed to strike out Brandon Lowe, Junior Caminero, and Josh Lowe, maintaining the lead for the Blue Jays.
The Rays suffered 18 strikeouts in total, their highest amount since August 28, 2019.
Attendance at Steinbrenner Field was 8,972 spectators, in a stadium with a capacity of 10,046 people. The Rays have had 17 games without a full house in their temporary stadium.
With family and former teammates present, Yesavage allowed an initial single to Chandler Simpson and a run-scoring double to Díaz in the first inning. However, he recovered, retiring 15 of the next 18 batters. His father, Dave, visibly emotional, witnessed the performance from the stands.
Ernie Clement hit a double in the seventh inning, advanced thanks to a sacrifice bunt, and scored thanks to a sacrifice fly by Andrés Giménez.
Joe Boyle, Tampa Bay pitcher, allowed three hits in six innings.
