Lukes' Homer Propels Blue Jays to Victory, Avoiding Orioles Sweep

In a thrilling Wednesday matchup, Nathan Lukes' three-run homer highlighted a pivotal five-run seventh inning for Toronto, propelling the Blue Jays to a 9-8 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. This win prevented a four-game sweep by the Orioles.

The Blue Jays, who had seen their AL East lead shrink after losing the first three games of the series against the last-place Orioles, found themselves trailing early in the final game. However, they mounted a comeback. Bo Bichette's two-run single gave Toronto a 6-5 lead in the seventh. Shortly after, Lukes, as a pinch-hitter, blasted a home run.

The Orioles responded with three runs in the bottom of the seventh, but Braydon Fisher entered the game with the bases loaded and one out, striking out Cedric Mullins and pinch-hitter Ramon Laureano to maintain a one-run advantage. Seranthony Domínguez, recently traded from the Orioles to Toronto, pitched a scoreless eighth inning. Jeff Hoffman closed out the game, securing his 25th save.

Myles Straw also contributed a home run for Toronto, while Ryan O’Hearn and Jordan Westburg hit home runs for the Orioles. Mason Fluharty earned the win in relief. In a notable play, Mullins robbed Ali Sanchez of a two-run homer in the sixth inning. Additionally, Jackson Holliday was retired in the eighth due to a unique play involving a foul ball that became fair.

Straw and Joey Loperfido each had three hits for Toronto. Both teams have a day off on Thursday. Toronto will then host Kansas City on Friday, while the Orioles will play the Cubs in Chicago.