The Toronto Blue Jays closed out a season-long 10-game homestand with a 9-3 victory over the New York Mets on Canada Day, providing a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing stretch. The homestand, which began with a win, ended with a 3-7 record after six straight losses, including an unusual defeat on a ninth-inning wild pitch that scored the deciding run from second base.
Sean Keys Shines with First Career Home Run
Sean Keys, playing in just his third major league game, launched his first career home run—a three-run blast in the third inning. He was later presented with a red home run jacket befitting the Canada Day occasion. The Blue Jays improved to 41-46 on the season, remaining in the wild card hunt in a weak American League.
Opener Strategy and Bullpen Success
The Blue Jays continued using an opener due to numerous starting pitcher injuries. Braydon Fisher started for the sixth time in such a role, throwing 2/3 of an inning and allowing no runs. The team hopes to end the opener strategy next Tuesday when the rotation is expected to be bolstered by Dylan Cease, Kevin Gausman, Trey Yesavage, and Shane Bieber after the all-star break.
Spencer Miles, a Rule 5 Draft selection, impressed by pitching three innings, striking out five batters, including Bo Bichette to lead off the fourth. Miles has been a revelation and has the stuff to be a starter, though a promotion is unlikely this season.
Canada Day Celebrations
The Blue Jays honored Canada Day with several traditions. The team recognized six former Canadian players—John Axford, Scott Richmond, Matt Stairs, Michael Saunders, Paul Quantrill, and Russell Martin—who received the loudest ovation. The Jays Care Foundation allocated $300,000 to youth baseball organizations in their names.
The club also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the CN Tower and its own 50th season. Former players Justin Smoak, Marco Estrada, and Kevin Pillar appeared on the centerfield video board participating in the CN Tower's EdgeWalk. Paul Beeston, the team's first employee and president emeritus from Welland, Ontario, threw the ceremonial first pitch to Martin.
Toronto's Canada Day record improved to 18-29 all-time, including 16-9 at Rogers Centre.
Bobby Bonilla Day and Upcoming Road Trip
With the Mets in town, the game also marked Bobby Bonilla Day, as the Mets pay Bonilla $1.19 million annually on July 1 as part of a deferred compensation agreement.
The Blue Jays now embark on a nine-game western road trip starting Friday in Seattle, continuing to San Francisco and San Diego before the all-star break. Phase 2 winners, pitchers, and reserves for the All-Star Game will be announced Thursday, with Jays players potentially included based on fan voting.
