Toronto Blue Jays vs Detroit Tigers Picks and Predictions May 18th 2025

Blue Jays Chase .500, Series Win Over MLB-Leading Tigers

After a dramatic walk-off 2-1 win on Saturday, the Toronto Blue Jays have a chance to even their season record and take the series against the MLB-best Detroit Tigers on Sunday afternoon at Rogers Centre.

Utility man Ernie Clement delivered the clutch hit, singling home the game-winning run with two outs in the bottom of the ninth. It not only sealed a tense victory but also helped preserve the bullpen, setting up Sunday’s finale with a fresh approach.

“I’ve failed so many times in that situation that there’s nothing to be afraid of,” Clement said. “It’s nice to come through.”

Toronto Looks to Build Confidence, Win Second Straight Series

Saturday’s win pushed the Blue Jays to 23-24, and they now have a shot to climb back to .500 for the first time in weeks.

“You win like that against a team that’s playing really well, it builds confidence,” said manager John Schneider. “These guys know they’re good. They know they can play with anyone.”

The win also gave Toronto a breather. With multiple relievers used in a bullpen game, Clement’s walk-off helped avoid extra innings and further wear on the arms.

“You’re almost out of pitching; you kind of want it to happen right then and there, and it does,” Schneider added.

Berrios Set to Start Finale vs. Tigers’ Rookie Jobe

Jose Berrios (1-1, 4.33 ERA) will start for Toronto. The right-hander has been a steady presence despite inconsistent run support and enters Sunday with solid career numbers against Detroit:

• Record vs. Tigers: 7-3
• ERA: 4.32
• Starts: 14

Berrios will face his brother-in-law, Tigers CF Javier Baez, adding a personal element to the day.

Meanwhile, Detroit counters with rookie Jackson Jobe (3-0, 4.32 ERA), who’s been a reliable presence since entering the rotation. Sunday will be Jobe’s first career start against the Blue Jays.

Explore matchup trends and more at our MLB Odds Page.

Tigers Try to Regroup After Offensive Stumble

Detroit (29-16) still owns the best record in baseball, but Saturday’s game was their lowest offensive output of the series.

The Tigers’ only run came off a second-inning homer by Spencer Torkelson. After a Colt Keith double followed, the Tigers managed just one hit and two walks the rest of the game.

“There was a lot in this game,” said manager A.J. Hinch. “We didn’t tack on early, and then there wasn’t a ton of action. Their bullpen guys came in and got a lot of outs.”

Starter Reese Olson pitched six dominant innings (1 H, 1 BB), but left early due to a possible finger cramp.

“I think it probably would have been fine,” Olson said. “They’re just playing it safe.”

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Injury Watch: Santander’s Sore Hip Still an Issue

Toronto slugger Anthony Santander, who has battled a shoulder and hip issue, was used only as a pinch hitter in Saturday’s ninth inning. Despite his struggles, Detroit intentionally walked him to face Clement, a move that backfired.

Santander is just 1-for-12 in his last three starts and hasn’t hit a homer since May 6.

“He’s frustrated with his performance and with nagging stuff,” Schneider noted.

If Santander is healthy enough to return Sunday, he’ll likely bat in the heart of the order against the rookie Jobe.

Key Stats and Trends

• Blue Jays at Home (2024): 12-11
• Tigers on the Road: 13-9
• Berrios Career vs. DET: 7-3, 4.32 ERA
• Torkelson: 5 HRs, 14 RBIs in May
• Jobe (DET): 1st career start vs. TOR, 3-0 in 2024
• Clement (TOR): .287 AVG, 5 RBIs in 12 starts
• Olson (DET): 0.88 WHIP, 1.59 ERA through 8 starts
• Blue Jays Bullpen (Last 5 Games): 2.16 ERA

FAQs

Who is starting Sunday for the Blue Jays and Tigers?
Jose Berrios will pitch for Toronto; rookie Jackson Jobe starts for Detroit.

What’s Toronto’s record after Saturday’s win?
The Blue Jays are now 23-24, one game under .500.

Was Saturday’s win a walk-off?
Yes. Ernie Clement hit a game-winning single in the bottom of the ninth.

Is Anthony Santander playing?
He was used as a pinch hitter Saturday. His availability Sunday depends on hip soreness.

Where can I find prop bets and odds for this game?
Head to our MLB Picks Page for betting lines, player props, and expert predictions.