Toronto Blue Jays vs Baltimore Orioles Picks and Predictions June 5th 2024

Jays’ Jose Berrios Aims to Stop Ryan Mountcastle and the Orioles

In the ongoing four-game series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Baltimore Orioles, right-hander Jose Berrios looks to build on his impressive track record against the Orioles and turn the tide for his team. The Orioles have dominated the first two games, outscoring the Blue Jays by a combined 17-3. As the series continues, the spotlight is on key players like Berrios and Ryan Mountcastle, whose performances could shape the outcome.
Jose Berrios’ Mission Against the Orioles

Jose Berrios’ Impressive Record:

Berrios (5-4, 2.78 ERA) boasts a stellar career record against Baltimore, going 10-1 with a 2.95 ERA in 15 starts. His consistent success against the Orioles makes him a critical player for Toronto as they seek to bounce back from two tough losses.

Key Challenges:

Despite Berrios’ strong track record, he faces a formidable Orioles lineup that has been in excellent form, winning 10 of their last 12 games. Contending with power hitters like Ryan Mountcastle, who has tormented Blue Jays pitchers, will be a significant challenge.
Ryan Mountcastle: A Blue Jays’ Nemesis

Mountcastle’s Dominance:

Ryan Mountcastle continued his assault on Blue Jays’ pitching with two home runs and five RBIs in the latest game. His third-inning three-run homer and fifth-inning two-run blast highlight his ability to capitalize on pitching mistakes.

Career Stats Against Toronto:

Mountcastle has an impressive 17 home runs and 48 RBIs in 56 career games against the Blue Jays. His performance at Rogers Centre is particularly notable, with a .319 average, seven doubles, eight home runs, and 26 RBIs in 24 games.

Managerial Praise:

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde praised Mountcastle’s development, particularly his improved strike-zone awareness and power-hitting. Hyde’s comments underscore Mountcastle’s evolution into a consistently dangerous hitter.
Pitching Matchup: Berrios vs. Suarez

Albert Suarez’s Role:

The Orioles will start right-hander Albert Suarez (2-0, 1.57 ERA), who has been effective in relief appearances against Toronto. His 1-0 record and scoreless outings against the Blue Jays suggest he could be a formidable opponent as a starter.

Key to Victory:

For Toronto, executing pitches effectively is crucial. Blue Jays manager John Schneider emphasized the need for precision, noting that poor execution against hitters like Mountcastle can lead to costly mistakes.
Blue Jays’ Offensive Struggles and Adjustments

Offensive Challenges:

The Blue Jays have struggled offensively this season, scoring 234 runs—70 fewer than the Orioles. The team’s inability to consistently produce runs has been a significant factor in their recent losses.

Lineup Adjustments:

In an effort to boost offensive output, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been moved to third base, allowing both Justin Turner and Daniel Vogelbach to be in the lineup. However, the trio combined for just 2-for-10 in the latest game, highlighting the ongoing challenges.

Managerial Insight:

Schneider pointed out that while facing a top pitcher like Corbin Burnes can be tough, the team needs to perform better against a variety of pitchers to improve their overall offensive production.
Emerging Talents and Roster Moves

Connor Norby’s Milestone:

Orioles’ Connor Norby hit his first major league home run, a two-run shot in the eighth inning, marking a significant personal achievement. His performance adds depth to Baltimore’s lineup.

Pitching Adjustments:

Toronto reinstated right-hander Bowden Francis from the injured list. Francis, recovering from right forearm extensor tendinitis, allowed five hits and four runs in 3 1/3 innings in his first outing since April 24.

Conclusion:

As the series progresses, the performances of Jose Berrios and Ryan Mountcastle will be pivotal. Berrios’ ability to replicate his past success against the Orioles and the Blue Jays’ need for better offensive execution will determine whether Toronto can turn their fortunes around. The matchup between Berrios and Suarez adds an intriguing dimension to the game, promising an exciting contest for fans.