CLEVELAND — In a thrilling showdown, George Springer delivered a game-changing grand slam in the eighth inning, propelling the Toronto Blue Jays to a 10-6 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday night. This impressive achievement marked the eighth grand slam of Springer’s illustrious career and his 11th home run of the season, extending the Blue Jays’ lead to 10-4. Throughout the game, Springer was a key contributor, going 3 for 5 with three runs scored, as Toronto’s offense racked up 14 hits.
Eric Lauer, the Blue Jays’ starting pitcher, kept the Guardians at bay, allowing no runs until Carlos Santana’s solo homer in the sixth inning. Lauer (4-1) effectively controlled the mound, giving up one run and five hits over 5 1/3 innings, with five strikeouts and three walks. This outing further solidified his winning streak, now at three games. Notably, it was Lauer’s second time pitching in Cleveland in his seven-year career. Hailing from nearby Grafton, Ohio, just 30 miles (48 kilometers) out, he played his college ball at Kent State.
Supporting the offensive charge, Alejandro Kirk contributed with RBI singles in the first and fifth innings for Toronto. Jonatan Clase added to the Blue Jays’ lead with a two-run single in the seventh, making it 6-1. However, the Guardians mounted a brief comeback attempt when Lane Thomas narrowed the gap to 6-4 with a three-run homer in the seventh inning, while Kyle Manzardo added another home run in the ninth.
Cleveland’s starter, Logan Allen (5-5), struggled as he surrendered four runs (three of which were earned) and eight hits in his 5 2/3 innings of work. A critical moment in the game occurred in the fourth inning when the Guardians threatened with runners on second and third while trailing 3-0. Lauer skillfully ended their scoring opportunity by forcing Johnathan Rodríguez to ground out.
As the game unfolded, Ernie Clement of the Blue Jays showcased his impressive form, extending his streak of multiple hits in nine of the last 11 games by going 2 for 4 with a run-scoring double. Looking ahead, the Blue Jays are set to start right-hander Max Scherzer (0-0, 6.00 ERA), who is returning from the injured list to make his second start of the season. The three-time Cy Young Award winner has been sidelined with right thumb inflammation since March 30. Meanwhile, the Guardians have plans to start RHP Gavin Williams (5-3, 3.58) in the next matchup.