Addison Barger’s Breakout Night: 3 Doubles & Heroics Fuel Blue Jays’ Win Over Mariners
Addison Barger made the most of his opportunity—and his homecoming—on Friday night, delivering a standout performance as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Seattle Mariners 6-3 to open their three-game series.
Barger Delivers Triple Double and Defensive Brilliance
Returning to his roots near Bellevue, Washington, Barger gave the Mariners and fans a night to remember—for all the right reasons. The 24-year-old racked up three doubles, clocked at blistering exit velocities of 109.7, 113.4, and 116.5 mph. The feat not only highlighted his power at the plate but also marked a new high point in his early MLB career.
But he wasn’t done.
Barger showcased his defensive prowess by robbing Julio Rodriguez of an extra-base hit with a leaping catch of a 111-mph rocket down the third-base line, halting a potential Seattle rally in the third inning.
“He hits the ball hard. He throws the ball hard. He’s got the tools—he just needs reps and confidence,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider.
A Shot at Consistency
Last season, Barger hit just .197 over 69 games, but moments like Friday suggest that better days could be ahead. With second baseman Andres Gimenez placed on the injured list with a quad strain, a path may be opening up for Barger to gain consistent starts at third base, with Ernie Clement expected to cover second.
“When he’s playing regularly, that’s when he’s at his best,” Schneider added. “Addie needs to play. This is a big shot for him.”
Even Barger is trying to keep things simple. “Just trying to convince yourself that you don’t care that much,” he said, referring to staying relaxed under pressure. Check the Latest Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers
Blue Jays’ Defense Saves the Day
The Mariners attempted to rally from a 5-0 deficit, similar to their comeback the night before. They narrowed the lead to 5-3 and loaded the bases with no outs in the eighth inning—but Toronto’s defense stood tall.
Daulton Varsho robbed Ben Williamson of a home run, while Bo Bichette made multiple leaping grabs to stifle Seattle’s offense.
The Mariners’ manager Dan Wilson credited his players’ effort: “We hit a lot of balls hard, just right at people. We had opportunities but couldn’t cash in.”
Pitching Matchup: Saturday Preview
Saturday’s game is set to feature Toronto’s Bowden Francis (2-5, 5.66 ERA) against Seattle rookie Logan Evans (1-1, 7.20 ERA). Francis previously held the Mariners to one run over six innings in a 3-1 win on April 18. Evans, meanwhile, had a strong debut but was hit hard in his last outing against Texas.
Is This Addison Barger’s Turning Point?
Toronto fans have been waiting for Addison Barger to break out, and this performance may signal a shift. With high-impact hitting, flashy defense, and a renewed opportunity due to roster injuries, the door is wide open.
If Barger can maintain this level of play, he could become a mainstay in the Blue Jays’ lineup—and a difference-maker in their push for postseason relevance.