Batter’s Bonanza: Jays Unleash Power
The Toronto Blue Jays have flipped the switch on offense, following three homers Wednesday with two more on Thursday—highlighted by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s three-run blast in the eighth inning of a 4–2 win over Boston. After overcoming a 6–0 deficit 7–6 in 10 innings, Toronto enters this opener riding a wave of late-inning fireworks and a 5–2 edge in the season series against their AL East rivals.
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Cleveland’s Counterpunch: Guardians Seek Response
Cleveland arrives off a 4–3, 10-inning victory over Minnesota that capped a 6–4 homestand. Jose Ramírez’s go-ahead single and milestone 250th career steal underscored a lineup capable of clutch production. The Guardians hope that their balanced attack and recent resilience can slow Toronto’s revived slugfest.
Pitching Spotlight: Bassitt vs. Allen
Chris Bassitt (2–2, 2.62 ERA) takes the mound for Toronto, owning a 3.79 ERA in six career starts versus Cleveland. His sinker-curve mix excels at inducing weak contact. Opposing him is Logan Allen (1–2, 4.21 ERA), who has struggled to find consistency in his three outings against the Blue Jays, posting a 4.50 ERA. Allen will look to keep Toronto’s power hitters in check with a changeup-heavy arsenal.
Storylines to Watch
Daulton Varsho’s back-to-back homers since returning from shoulder surgery have added depth to Toronto’s lineup. Meanwhile, Guerrero’s ability to deliver in high-leverage moments has boosted clubhouse confidence. For Cleveland, Ramírez’s dual-threat performance and Andrés Giménez’s contact approach will be critical in manufacturing runs against Bassitt’s ground-ball tendencies.
Betting Angle
With both offenses showing pop and two strike-throwing starters on the bump, consider game-total over plays and first-five-inning lines. To fine-tune your wagers, explore our expert selections on MLB Picks Today.
Scoreline Verdict
Expect a slugfest early before Díaz and Poppen enter as relief pivots. Toronto’s momentum and home-field edge give them the nod.
Predicted Final: Blue Jays 7, Guardians 4