Cleveland Guardians Outshine Blue Jays in 3-1 Victory
TORONTO — The Cleveland Guardians claimed a 3-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night, buoyed by Will Brennan’s solo home run and a solid pitching performance from Logan Allen. This win marks Cleveland’s fourth triumph in their last five games, as they continue to demonstrate their prowess on the road.
Brennan, who scored twice and contributed two hits, alongside Andrés Giménez, played a crucial role in the Guardians’ offense. The team has shown a strong tendency to dominate when scoring first, improving their record to an impressive 31-7 under such circumstances. Additionally, the Guardians have now won 11 of their last 16 away games, bringing their road record to 23-15.
Allen (7-3), the 25-year-old left-hander, pitched five innings, allowing one run and three hits. Despite walking three batters, he struck out an equal number, earning his first career win against Toronto. Guardians’ manager Stephen Vogt commended Allen’s performance, noting his ability to keep the Blue Jays off balance. Over his last six starts, Allen has posted a 4-1 record with a 3.86 ERA.
On the Blue Jays’ side, right-hander Kevin Gausman (5-5) allowed three runs and eight hits over 5 1/3 innings. This marked his second loss in three starts. Despite striking out six and walking none, Gausman struggled with the lack of run support from his team. Toronto has now lost two straight and three of their last four games, holding a dismal 8-29 record when scoring three or fewer runs.
Cleveland seized the lead in the second inning with back-to-back doubles from Brennan and Daniel Schneemann. Brennan extended the lead in the fourth with his sixth home run of the season. In the fifth inning, Brayan Rocchio hit a leadoff double and scored on a two-out hit by Giménez.
Toronto’s offense managed to get on the board in the sixth inning when Ernie Clement’s leadoff double and Davis Schneider’s RBI single prompted Allen’s departure. Right-hander Cade Smith replaced Allen and retired the next three batters, effectively stifling the Blue Jays’ momentum.
Cleveland’s bullpen continued to dominate, with Scott Barlow, Sam Hentges, Hunter Gaddis, and Emmanuel Clase, who earned his 21st save in 24 chances, shutting down Toronto’s offense.
The Guardians will look to continue their strong performance with Carlos Carrasco (2-5, 5.50 ERA) scheduled to start on Saturday afternoon. Toronto has yet to announce their starting pitcher.
UP NEXT: Cleveland’s Carlos Carrasco takes the mound against an undecided starter for Toronto on Saturday afternoon. The Guardians aim to build on their recent success, while the Blue Jays hope to reverse their current slump.