Blue Jays Loss
The Toronto Blue Jays arrived in Tampa Bay ready to extend their winning streak. Instead, they left the field frustrated after a 3-1 loss to the Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field.
This wasn’t your usual Major League ballpark. With Tropicana Field out of commission due to roof damage caused by Hurricane Milton last October, the Rays are playing home games at the New York Yankees’ spring training facility this season.
Strange Setting, Familiar Feel
Upon entering the visitors’ clubhouse, Blue Jays players were welcomed by a large photo of the damaged Tropicana roof — a reminder of why they were at a minor-league venue.
“Pulling up felt like spring training again,” said outfielder Nathan Lukes. “Different opponent, same setting — still baseball.”
Despite the unfamiliar venue, the Blue Jays didn’t blame the ballpark for their loss. Manager John Schneider noted the team was prepared for the 30°C heat and understood how the ball would fly in the stadium’s conditions.
Schneider added that many on the team had previous experience at Steinbrenner Field and were comfortable navigating unusual situations. Some players had already dealt with similar disruptions during the pandemic seasons, when the team played home games in Buffalo and Dunedin.
Missed Chances Hurt Toronto
The Blue Jays had plenty of opportunities but failed to deliver key hits. They drew eight walks and put runners in scoring positions several times, but couldn't cash in.
“We stayed patient,” Schneider said. “But just didn’t get the big hit when we needed it.”
The third inning offered a promising start. Jonatan Clase doubled, and Lukes followed with a single. But a strong throw from Rays catcher Danny Jansen caught Lukes trying to advance to second, killing the rally.
In the fourth, Toronto had runners on first and third, but Addison Barger struck out after a gritty nine-pitch at-bat.
One of the toughest moments came in the fifth. With two on and no outs, Bo Bichette hit a 110.1-mph laser. Rays third baseman Junior Caminero made a slick grab and turned it into a double play.
Seventh-Inning Heartbreak
The game’s biggest turning point came in the seventh inning. The Blue Jays loaded the bases with no outs thanks to three walks from Rays reliever Mason Montgomery.
But the opportunity slipped away quickly.
Clase grounded into a double play that scored one run but ended Toronto’s momentum. Schneider saw it as their best shot to flip the game.
“JC hit it hard,” Schneider said. “Tough luck. That was our moment.”
Santander Returns, Lauer Still Building
Anthony Santander returned from a minor hip injury, entering as a pinch-hitter in the ninth and drawing a walk. He looked healthy during batting practice and is expected to start Saturday.
Schneider considered using him earlier but said the situation didn’t call for it.
Meanwhile, starter Eric Lauer gave up all three Tampa runs, including homers to Brandon Lowe and Curtis Mead. He pitched 4.1 innings, allowing six hits, two walks, and two strikeouts.
Though he lacked command on breaking balls, Lauer was encouraged by throwing 85 pitches — his highest count since April.
“They’re building me up,” Lauer said. “It’s a good sign. I want to go deeper next time.”
With a 13-game-in-13-days stretch underway, the Blue Jays have little room to adjust their rotation. Schneider hinted Lauer may get another start, possibly on Wednesday in Texas.
A Minor-League Feel, Major-League Stakes
Though Steinbrenner Field is technically a spring training park, it mirrors Yankee Stadium’s dimensions. Still, it’s a strange sight for MLB action.
“It feels odd during the season,” Lauer admitted. “But we all deal with it. You can’t let it affect you.”
Friday’s loss snapped a three-game winning streak and dropped Toronto back to a .500 record (25-25). The series continues Saturday, where the Blue Jays hope to heat up their bats and bounce back in Tampa.
