Max Scherzer Delivers Vintage Performance
After being left off the Blue Jays' roster for the ALDS, veteran right-hander Max Scherzer proved his worth in a crucial Game 4 start against the Mariners. The 41-year-old turned back the clock, allowing just 2 runs on 3 hits over 5.2 innings while striking out 7. Scherzer's vintage outing helped Toronto even the ALCS at 2-2, setting up a winner-take-all Game 5 on Friday.
"He's got that Hall of Fame self," said Blue Jays manager John Schneider. "There are many times where he knows it's time. And it's not like the first time we communicate is the time that he's removed from the game. We talk every inning. So I knew he was feeling great and I knew he was executing and I knew his velocity was there."
Andrés Giménez Powers Blue Jays Offense
While Scherzer set the tone on the mound, second baseman Andrés Giménez provided the offensive fireworks for Toronto. Giménez went 2-for-4 with a home run and 4 RBIs, including a crucial 2-run single in the 8th inning to put the game out of reach.
"That was the big blow," Schneider said of Giménez's 8th-inning hit. "That kind of put it away for us."
Giménez has been on a tear this postseason, hitting .333 with 2 home runs and 9 RBIs through the first 4 games of the ALCS.
Next Man Up Mentality Pays Off
The Blue Jays have shown a "next man up" mentality throughout the playoffs, and that was on full display in Game 4. With outfielder Myles Straw sidelined, rookie Joey Loperfido stepped up, going 1-for-3 with a run scored.
"We would obviously love to have him in there, but it's part of the game, part of this point of the season," said pitcher Kevin Gausman. "These guys aren't going to feel bad that he's not in there."
TL;DR
- Max Scherzer turned in a vintage performance, allowing just 2 runs over 5.2 innings to even the ALCS for the Blue Jays
- Andrés Giménez powered the Toronto offense with a home run and 4 RBIs
- The Blue Jays' "next man up" mentality has been on full display, with role players like Joey Loperfido stepping up in the absence of injured starters