Toronto Blue Jays vs San Diego Padres Picks and Predictions May 21st 2025

Blue Jays aim to extend Padres’ losing streak, offensive woes

The Toronto Blue Jays made the most of just three hits to secure a 3-0 victory against the visiting San Diego Padres on Tuesday night. Two of those hits were crucial home runs — a solo shot from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and a two-run blast from Anthony Santander — giving Toronto all the offense they needed.

With the win, the Blue Jays moved to 3-4 on their nine-game homestand after earlier series losses to the Tampa Bay Rays and Detroit Tigers. Despite limited offensive output, Toronto’s ability to capitalize on key moments made the difference. Check The latest Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Padres’ Offensive Woes Continue Amidst Four-Game Skid

The Padres’ troubles at the plate persisted, as they were shut out despite collecting five hits. San Diego has now scored just three total runs over their last four games, all losses. The team’s most alarming stat? 0-for-24 with runners in scoring position during that stretch.

“We’ve outhit opponents the last few games, but we can’t seem to string anything together,” said Padres manager Mike Shildt. “It’ll turn around.”

Guerrero Jr. and Santander Lead Toronto’s Attack

Guerrero got the Blue Jays started with a solo homer in the first inning, extending his on-base streak to 20 games — the longest active streak in the majors. He’s batting .315 with four home runs and nine RBIs over that span.

In the fifth inning, Santander crushed a hanging slider from Padres starter Dylan Cease to push the lead to 3-0. “That’s what he does best,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider. “He took great swings all game.”

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Bassitt and Cease: Strong Outings, Different Results

Toronto’s starter Chris Bassitt was efficient and dominant, pitching six shutout innings. Meanwhile, Cease pitched seven innings, his longest outing of the season, and gave up all three runs — a tough-luck loss given the Padres’ lack of run support.

Cease remained philosophical about the outcome: “It’s a long season. These things happen. We’ve played well overall, and it’ll come back.”

Pitching Preview: Gausman vs. Vasquez

Wednesday’s game will feature:

• Kevin Gausman (3-4, 4.59 ERA) for the Blue Jays. He boasts a 3.35 ERA in eight career appearances against San Diego.
• Randy Vasquez (3-3, 3.45 ERA) for the Padres, who has pitched effectively in limited action, including a 1.80 ERA in one previous start vs. Toronto.

Padres’ Hitting Slumps and Player Struggles

Rookie Jackson Merrill went 1-for-4 on Tuesday, but he’s now just 2-for-23 over his last six games. On a brighter note, Luis Arraez extended his hitting streak to seven games, going 1-for-4 with a double.

Toronto Focused on Early Leads and Momentum

Toronto flipped the script by scoring first — something they’ve struggled with recently. “It’s nice to get out in front,” said Schneider. Guerrero agreed: “When we’re up early, we think better and hit better.”

Looking Ahead

The Blue Jays will aim to clinch the series on Wednesday night and move closer to a .500 homestand. Meanwhile, the Padres need a breakout performance to avoid a fifth straight loss and reset their offense.