The Toronto Blue Jays exploded for eight runs in the eighth inning to rally past the Minnesota Twins 11-4 on Saturday in Minneapolis. The victory snapped a two-game losing streak for Toronto and showcased the team's offensive depth.
Game recap
Trailing 4-3 entering the eighth, the Blue Jays sent 12 batters to the plate, collecting five hits, three walks, and capitalizing on a Twins error. Kazuma Okamoto scored on a bases-loaded walk to tie the game, and the Blue Jays never looked back. George Springer delivered a two-run double, while Vladimir Guerrero Jr. added an RBI single during the outburst.
Twins starter Pablo Lopez allowed three runs over six innings but was not involved in the decision. The Toronto bullpen, led by Tim Mayza (2-0), held Minnesota scoreless over the final three frames. Mayza earned the win with a perfect eighth inning.
Key performances
- Kazuma Okamoto: 2-for-4, two runs scored, one RBI on a bases-loaded walk
- George Springer: 2-for-5, double, two RBIs
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: 1-for-4, RBI, walk
- Daulton Varsho: 3-for-5, two runs
Turning point
The eighth inning began with a walk to Bo Bichette and a single by Guerrero. After a sacrifice bunt, the Twins intentionally walked Springer to load the bases. Okamoto then drew a walk to force in the tying run. A throwing error by Twins shortstop Carlos Correa on a potential double-play ball allowed two more runs to score, and the Blue Jays kept adding on.
Toronto manager John Schneider praised his team's patience at the plate. "We stayed disciplined and made them throw strikes. That inning was a testament to our approach," he said.
The Blue Jays improved to 18-12, while the Twins fell to 14-16. The series continues Sunday with Toronto's Kevin Gausman facing Minnesota's Joe Ryan.
