The Toronto Blue Jays opened their three-game series against the New York Yankees with a 3–1 victory at Rogers Centre, getting clutch production from Alejandro Kirk and another strong start from Shane Bieber.
Shane Bieber worked six innings, allowing just one run and earning his fourth win in his last six starts.
Alejandro Kirk was the offensive star, delivering the go-ahead RBI double in the sixth and later launching a solo homer in the eighth.
Toronto’s first run came in the sixth after a throwing error allowed Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to score and tie the game.
The Yankees’ only run came on a Trent Grisham solo homer.
Louis Varland closed the door with a perfect ninth for his 27th save. �
Guerrero Jr. injury
The biggest concern for Toronto came in the sixth. Guerrero collided with Yankees rookie George Lombard Jr. while sliding into third base. Guerrero was able to score but subsequently left the game and entered concussion protocol.
Toronto takes Game 1 of the three-game series and has now won four of its last five games during this homestand. The Jays will look to build on the momentum Saturday, but Guerrero’s status will be the major storyline heading into Game 2.
