Clement gets winning hit as Blue Jays rally to beat red-hot Twins 10-8

TORONTO – Ernie Clement stepped up to the plate in the seventh inning, breaking an 8-all tie with a bases-loaded single, propelling the Toronto Blue Jays to a thrilling 10-8 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Saturday.

In a stunning comeback, the Blue Jays erased a six-run deficit, fueled by Danny Jansen’s two-run homer, along with solo shots from Bo Bichette and Davis Schneider. Despite recent struggles, Blue Jays manager John Schneider emphasized the team’s unwavering confidence, hoping this win would spark a positive momentum shift.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. showcased his prowess, going 4 for 5 with three RBIs, contributing to the Blue Jays’ season-high 16 hits. Guerrero’s clutch two-run single in the sixth inning leveled the score at 8-all, setting the stage for Clement’s game-winning hit.

Despite the Twins’ early lead and offensive prowess, highlighted by Carlos Santana’s three-run blast and Ryan Jeffers’ solo homer, they couldn’t contain the relentless Blue Jays lineup. Manager Rocco Baldelli lamented his team’s inability to halt the Blue Jays’ momentum throughout the game.

Blue Jays reliever Erik Swanson notched the win with a scoreless inning, supported by Yimi Garcia’s return from injury in the eighth. Closer Jordan Romano shut the door in the ninth, securing his sixth save in as many chances.

The Twins roughed up Blue Jays starter Kevin Gausman, who struggled through three innings, surrendering a season-worst seven runs. In contrast, Bichette and Schneider provided early sparks with their homers, while Jansen added a crucial two-run shot.

Max Kepler extended his hitting streak to a career-long 13 games for the Twins, while Simeon Woods Richardson battled through 4 1/3 innings for Minnesota, facing his former minor league team.

Looking ahead, RHP Bailey Ober takes the mound for the Twins in Sunday’s series finale, countered by RHP Alek Manoah making his second start of the season for the Blue Jays.