Cody Bellinger Homers as Yankees Top Blue Jays in Spring Training

BRADENTON, Fla. — Cody Bellinger extended the Yankees‘ first inning lead to 3-0 with a two-run home run to right field during a Grapefruit League game against the Toronto Blue Jays on March 1, 2025.

The game featured significant performances from several players, with Bellinger setting the tone early on. The Yankees triumphed over the Blue Jays, securing a 6-3 victory in front of fans at LECOM Park.

In addition to Bellinger’s power at the plate, the Yankees received offensive support from Austin Wells and Alex Jackson, who also contributed home runs. Jackson added a two-run double in the fifth inning, furthering New York’s lead. Yankees starter Gerrit Cole struck out five batters while allowing just one run over 3 1/3 innings.

“It was a great outing for a lot of guys today,” Bellinger said after the game. “We saw good energy from the team, and hopefully, we can keep this momentum going into the next few games.”

The Blue Jays, who struggled to keep up with the Yankees’ batting prowess, managed six hits during the contest. Starter Jake Bloss was charged with two runs in two innings as he faced a tough Yankees lineup.

While the Yankees showcased their offensive depth, it was the pitching that kept the Blue Jays at bay. “We need to focus on making adjustments and improving our execution as we move forward,” said Toronto manager John Schneider.

Earlier in the day, the Pittsburgh Pirates faced the Tampa Bay Rays, and despite not having a standout offensive performance, they secured a 3-2 victory. Pirates’ Mitch Keller threw three scoreless innings and helped his team to a solid spring training record of 7-5.

Following the loss to the Yankees, Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman acknowledged the need for improvement. “We have some work to do, and I’m confident that we will step it up as we head toward the season,” Gausman said.

As spring training progresses, teams are utilizing these exhibition games to refine their rosters and build chemistry ahead of the upcoming season. Both the Yankees and Blue Jays will continue to assess player performances in the following matches.