Toronto Blue Jays earn critical win over New York Yankees
Global News
His 28th homer of the season was the difference as Toronto earned a much-needed 6-5 victory that helped the Blue Jays stay in the thick of a tight American League wild-card race.
TORONTO — Feeling confident after belting a solo shot earlier in the game, Bo Bichette stepped to the plate in the eighth inning with the clear intention of doing it again.
Looking for a sinker from reliever Clay Holmes (8-4), Bichette got one and took full advantage.
His 28th homer of the season was the difference as Toronto earned a much-needed 6-5 victory that helped the Blue Jays stay in the thick of a tight American League wild-card race.
“This is what we dream of doing,” Bichette said. “I wouldn’t be playing baseball if it wasn’t for moments like this.”
Marcus Semien also homered for the Blue Jays while George Springer chipped in with three hits and two runs. Starter Jose Berrios turned in a solid performance and closer Jordan Romano worked the ninth inning for his 22nd save.
Bichette’s 28 homers are the most in one season by a shortstop in franchise history, moving him past Tony Batista’s mark of 26 in 1999. None were bigger than the one that helped move the Blue Jays two games behind New York in the race for the first wild-card spot.
“Sometimes you hit those bottom of the eighth homers and they’re just as big as a walkoff,” Semien said.
Semien also made history with his 44th homer, a two-run shot in the first inning that set the tone after Berrios struck out the side in the top half of the frame.