Blue Jays Fall Short in Chicago as Cubs Take 3-2 Victory
Chicago, IL – Despite a strong effort from their offense, the Toronto Blue Jays came up just short in a 3-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. The Cubs capitalized on early opportunities to secure their second straight win after a recent losing streak.
The Cubs’ victory was powered by leadoff hitter Ian Happ, who launched a homer in the bottom of the first inning. Michael Busch furthered Chicago’s lead with a crucial two-run triple in the fifth, scoring Pete Crow-Armstrong and Miguel Amaya. Busch’s hit appeared to deflect off Blue Jays center fielder Daulton Varsho’s glove as he leaped at the wall.
Toronto’s offense showed resilience, with Addison Barger hitting his third home run of the season and Varsho contributing a pair of hits and an RBI. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome the early deficit.
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) August 17, 2024
Chris Bassitt (9-12) took the loss for the Blue Jays, allowing five hits and three runs over five innings. He struck out five batters but struggled with control at times. Blue Jays manager John Schneider acknowledged the challenging circumstances.
“Credit to Chris for getting through five innings,” Schneider said. “It was a tough day with the delays and some tough breaks. He stayed focused and did his best.”
The game was interrupted by two delays in the second inning, totaling 55 minutes. This limited Cubs starter Justin Steele to just two hitless innings, and the decision was made to pull him early to avoid further strain.
Nate Pearson (2-1) earned the win for the Cubs, pitching two scoreless innings and allowing just one hit. Pearson, who was traded from Toronto to Chicago in late July, faced his former team with composure. Jorge López recorded his third save despite allowing a homer in the ninth inning. López struck out George Springer, Varsho, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to seal the victory.
“I’ve been working hard every day,” López said. “It’s important to stay calm in those big situations and make the right pitches.”
The Blue Jays had a chance to equalize in the fourth inning but left the bases loaded. Pearson, who was traded from Toronto, was instrumental in escaping the jam, striking out Davis Schneider and getting Berroa to fly out.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Blue Jays shortstop Leo Jiménez exited the game in the second inning due to right knee soreness. Jiménez tweaked his knee while backing up third base on a stolen base attempt. Schneider reported that Jiménez was feeling better post-game.
UP NEXT
The Blue Jays will look to salvage the series finale against the Cubs on Sunday. RHP Bowden Francis (5-3, 4.92 ERA) will take the mound for Toronto, while Cubs’ LHP Shota Imanaga (9-2, 3.16 ERA) will start for Chicago. The game promises to be a critical one for the Blue Jays as they aim to close out their road trip on a high note.
