TORONTO — Making a stunning impact, Daniel Schneemann propelled the Cleveland Guardians to a dramatic 5-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday with his first career grand slam, followed by a solo home run. This remarkable comeback unfolded in the ninth inning with Toronto holding a 3-1 lead. Schneemann sent an 0-1 delivery from Yimi García soaring into the right field stands, marking his first multi-homer performance — his fourth home run of the season.
The scoring for Cleveland was initiated by Schneemann in the eighth inning with a solo homer off Toronto pitcher Chad Green. On the mound, Kolby Allard notched the win, pitching four innings and conceding just one run. Emmanuel Clase secured his sixth save of the season from eight opportunities.
Toronto’s Bo Bichette showcased his power with his first home run of the season, yet their efforts were undermined after a brilliant outing by pitcher Kevin Gausman. Gausman threw six scoreless innings, striking out nine and surrendering a single hit. Despite this, the Blue Jays couldn’t capitalize, marking their first defeat in four games. García, pitching in relief, was handed his second blown save in four attempts.
Bichette gave Toronto an early advantage by launching his home run on the first pitch from Cleveland starter Gavin Williams. In his outing, Williams allowed two runs and seven hits across four innings, tallying five walks and nine strikeouts, each setting season highs.
A notable absence for Cleveland was José Ramírez, a six-time All-Star, who was sidelined after spraining his ankle during a prior game. On Friday, he left in the third inning due to the injury, which he sustained when stumbling over first base on an infield single.
In a key moment late in the game, Steven Kwan led off the ninth inning with a single, followed by walks from Carlos Santana and Bo Naylor. These bases-loaded scenarios set the stage for Schneemann’s decisive grand slam.
Bichette, an essential player for Toronto, hadn’t hit a homer since last year against the White Sox in Chicago, highlighting the rarity of his power display.
Looking ahead, the Blue Jays are setting their hopes on right-hander Bowden Francis in the upcoming game. Francis, possessing a 2-4 record and a 5.28 ERA, is set to face Cleveland’s Tanner Bibee, who enters with a 2-2 record and a 4.36 ERA.