New York Yankees vs Toronto Blue Jays Picks and Predictions April 27th 2025

Yankees Face Closer Uncertainty as They Prepare for Doubleheader Against Blue Jays

The New York Yankees are facing a key question heading into Sunday’s doubleheader against the Toronto Blue Jays: who will close out games if a save situation arises? With Devin Williams struggling on the mound, the Yankees may be forced to reevaluate their bullpen strategy sooner than expected.

Rainout Forces Doubleheader in Crucial AL East Clash

Saturday’s game between the Yankees and Blue Jays was rained out, setting up a pivotal twin bill in New York. The Yankees will send left-hander Max Fried (4-0, 1.42 ERA) to the mound against Toronto’s Kevin Gausman (2-2, 3.16 ERA) in the opener. Clarke Schmidt (0-1, 7.45 ERA) will take the ball for the Yankees in Game 2, facing off against Blue Jays righty Chris Bassitt (2-1, 1.88 ERA).

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Devin Williams’ Struggles Put Yankees’ Bullpen in Limbo

After a disheartening 4-2 loss on Friday, highlighted by Devin Williams’ collapse in the ninth inning, the Yankees find themselves in a closer dilemma. Williams allowed three runs without recording an out, capped by a two-run double from Alejandro Kirk.

“It feels great. I needed it,” Kirk said through an interpreter, “and the team needed it. I’m very happy, just very happy about it.”

Williams’ performance marked his first official blown save of the season. His early struggles have been pronounced, with an 11.25 ERA and an 0-2 record through his first 10 appearances. Manager Aaron Boone hinted that a change could be imminent.

“We’ll kind of talk through that stuff,” Boone said. “This is raw right now. We want to do everything we can to get (Williams) right because we know how good he is and how valuable he’s going to be for us.”

Should the Yankees opt for a change, Luke Weaver, who closed games successfully late last season, could be the next man up.

Blue Jays Look to Capitalize

The Blue Jays snapped their five-game skid thanks to Friday’s comeback win. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. also chipped in with a homer, helping Toronto close the power gap. So far this season, the Yankees have smashed 41 homers compared to the Blue Jays’ 14.

Toronto hopes to continue their momentum and avoid giving New York any save opportunities during Sunday’s doubleheader. If Fried and Schmidt can provide stability early, the Yankees could avoid further bullpen drama.

Starting Pitchers in Focus

Max Fried enters the doubleheader opener in excellent form, boasting a 1.00 ERA over his last four outings. His recent gem against the Rays saw him work 7 2/3 innings of two-hit, shutout baseball.

Meanwhile, Kevin Gausman aims to bounce back after allowing four runs in a rough outing against Houston. Historically, he has a solid track record against the Yankees, posting a 3.63 ERA across 35 appearances.

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Clarke Schmidt, still finding his rhythm after a shoulder injury, has struggled, giving up five runs in four innings during his last start. Toronto’s Chris Bassitt, however, has been a Yankee-killer, boasting a 0.82 ERA in five career starts against New York.

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Yankees’ Bullpen Issues Could Impact MLB Picks and Predictions

If you’re following MLB Betting Picks and projections, keep a close eye on the Yankees’ bullpen developments. A shaky closer situation can drastically affect outcomes and odds, especially in close matchups. Stay ahead with the latest MLB Picks and Parlays to make informed decisions all season long.