Blue Jays Seek Fourth Straight Win Against Athletics on Sunday

TORONTO, Canada — Kevin Gausman will take the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday, aiming for a four-game sweep of the Oakland Athletics. The game will be broadcast live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ starting at 1 p.m. ET.

The Blue Jays have been on a scoring spree during this series, racking up a total of 31 runs in the first three games. In Saturday’s thrilling 8-7 victory, George Springer hit two home runs, dubbed ‘Springer Dingers.’ Addison Barger contributed with a two-run homer, and Bo Bichette also knocked a solo shot.

Easton Lucas earned the victory on Saturday, while Jeff Hoffman secured his 13th save, despite allowing a two-run homer to Brent Rooker in the ninth inning.

However, the Blue Jays faced a setback when center fielder Daulton Varsho had to leave the game in the third inning due to left hamstring discomfort. After he injured himself while running to third base, Varsho was tagged out. Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed concern for Varsho’s well-being, stating, ‘It’s tough. Varsh is about as well liked as there is, probably in the game. Everyone in (the clubhouse) is feeling for him for sure.’

As Varsho’s status remains uncertain pending MRI results, Gausman enters the game with a solid record of 5-4 and a 3.68 ERA. He has won three of his last four starts and excelled in his last two outings, including seven shutout innings against the San Diego Padres.

The Athletics will counter with left-hander JP Sears, who holds a record of 4-5 and a 5.18 ERA. Sears has struggled recently, losing his last three starts, including a disastrous outing against the Houston Astros, where he allowed nine runs in 3.1 innings.

Toronto begins the day with a record of 30-28, tied for second place in the American League East, trailing the New York Yankees by 5.5 games. Meanwhile, the Athletics are last in the AL West with a record of 23-36.

After Sunday’s game, the Blue Jays will have a day off before facing the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game series starting Tuesday.