Blue Jays’ Ninth-Inning Rally Falls Short as Cubs Secure 6-5 Walk-Off Victory

CHICAGO — The Toronto Blue Jays’ dramatic ninth-inning comeback wasn’t enough to secure a win as the Chicago Cubs edged them 6-5 in a thrilling 10-inning finish at Wrigley Field on Friday.

The Blue Jays, fresh off a three-game sweep at the Angels and riding a strong recent form, found themselves trailing 5-2 entering the final frame. However, their resilience showed as they loaded the bases against Cubs reliever Héctor Neris with one out. Will Wagner crossed home plate on a balk, and George Springer delivered a game-tying triple off the left field wall, sending the game into extra innings. Unfortunately, Daulton Varsho struck out to end the inning, leaving the go-ahead run stranded.

In the 10th inning, Cubs’ Seiya Suzuki stepped up to deliver a walk-off single, driving in Ian Happ, who had started the inning on second base due to the automatic runner rule. Chad Green (3-3), who had walked Michael Busch prior to Suzuki’s hit, took the loss despite a valiant effort.

Gold Glove Plays 😤 pic.twitter.com/RlDDOPmq4E

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) August 16, 2024

The Blue Jays had battled back from an early deficit, with Leo Jiménez and George Springer homering to tie the game. Jiménez’s solo shot in the fifth and Springer’s crucial triple highlighted Toronto’s offensive efforts.

Toronto right-hander Yariel Rodríguez, who started for the Blue Jays, gave up four runs on four hits over five innings, striking out five and walking two. Despite the loss, Rodríguez’s performance showed promise as he continues to adapt to his role.

“Today was a tough game,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider. “We fought hard to come back in the ninth, and I’m proud of the team for not giving up. It’s just disappointing we couldn’t finish it off.”

Injury updates for the Blue Jays saw some positive news as shortstop Bo Bichette (calf) resumed baseball activities, though he is not yet running. On the other hand, right-hander Jordan Romano remains sidelined as he continues his rehabilitation from elbow surgery.

The Blue Jays will look to bounce back on Saturday with Chris Bassitt (9-11, 4.30 ERA) set to take the mound. Bassitt will be aiming for a strong performance after a challenging outing against the Oakland Athletics last weekend. The Cubs will counter with left-hander Justin Steele (3-5, 3.16 ERA), as both teams continue their series at Wrigley Field.

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