In a thrilling matchup at Rogers Centre, the Toronto Blue Jays secured their third consecutive victory by defeating the Seattle Mariners 3-1 on Friday night, April 18, 2025. Right-hander Bowden Francis took the mound and delivered a solid six-inning performance, earning his first win in three starts. The win improved the Blue Jays' home record to an impressive 8-3, while the Mariners saw their two-game winning streak come to an end.
Francis (2-2) showcased his skills by allowing just one run on five hits, walking one and striking out five in a 77-pitch outing that kept the Mariners' offense in check. The crowd of 40,263 at Rogers Centre was treated to a display of pitching prowess as Francis kept Seattle at bay. In the ninth inning, Jeff Hoffman came in to secure the victory, notching his fifth save without allowing a hit.
George Springer was a standout for the Blue Jays, contributing significantly to the win with two hits and two runs scored. After missing the previous three games due to a sore left wrist, Springer returned to the lineup with a bang. He led off the second inning with a single and later scored on Alan Roden's sacrifice fly, giving Toronto a 1-0 lead. In the third inning, Springer doubled and crossed home plate once again after Alejandro Kirk's single, extending the Blue Jays' advantage to 3-1.
Anthony Santander also played a crucial role in the victory, driving in a run with a sacrifice fly that scored Bo Bichette in the first inning. The Blue Jays' offensive efforts were complemented by solid defensive plays, particularly from right fielder Addison Barger, who recorded three outfield assists, including a remarkable throw to third base to retire Rowdy Tellez trying to advance on a fly ball.
Speaking of Tellez, the former Blue Jays first baseman made his mark against his old team by hitting a solo home run on the first pitch he saw from Francis in the second inning, marking his second homer of the season. The Blue Jays traded Tellez to the Milwaukee Brewers in July 2021, and his return to Toronto was met with a mix of nostalgia and competitive spirit.
Mariners starter Bryan Woo (2-1) had a challenging outing, surrendering three runs and a season-high seven hits over seven innings pitched. Despite striking out four and walking two, Woo couldn't contain the Blue Jays' bats, ultimately taking the loss in his first defeat of the season.
As the game progressed, the Mariners found themselves in a threatening position in the fifth inning with runners on first and second with no outs. However, Barger once again showcased his arm strength, throwing out Tellez at third base for a crucial double play that shifted the momentum back to the Blue Jays.
Looking ahead, the Blue Jays are poised to continue their strong performance in the series against the Mariners. José Berríos (1-1, 5.16 ERA) is set to take the mound for the Blue Jays in the middle game of the three-game series on Saturday, April 19, 2025, while the Mariners will counter with Logan Gilbert (1-2, 2.38 ERA).
In addition to the on-field action, the Blue Jays received some positive news regarding their roster. Outfielder Nathan Lukes is set to be reinstated from the Paternity List and will be active for the game against the Mariners. Lukes, who has struggled this season with a .167 batting average, is expected to provide depth as the team navigates injuries, including that of Daulton Varsho, who is currently sidelined due to a shoulder issue.
As the Blue Jays continue to chase the New York Yankees for first place in the AL East, their recent performances suggest that they are finding their rhythm. With superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. recently signing a monumental 14-year, $500 million contract extension, the team is looking to build on their momentum and make a strong push as the season progresses.
Overall, the Blue Jays' victory against the Mariners not only showcased their offensive capabilities but also highlighted their defensive strengths and pitching depth. As they prepare for the upcoming games, fans are eager to see how the team will continue to evolve and compete in the highly competitive AL East.
