The Toronto Blue Jays are set to face the New York Yankees on October 11, 2023, at 19:08 EDT in Game 4 of the American League Division Series (ALDS). Currently leading the series 2-1, the Blue Jays are one victory away from advancing to the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Both teams finished the regular season with identical records of 94-68, with the Blue Jays clinching the top position in the AL East.
The matchup features starting pitchers Louie Varland for the Blue Jays and Cam Schlittler for the Yankees. Varland comes into the game with a record of 4-3 and an earned run average (ERA) of 2.97, while Schlittler has a similar record of 4-3 and an ERA of 2.96. This contest marks the 17th meeting between the two teams this season, with the Blue Jays holding a 10-6 advantage in the season series.
Current Standings and Team Performance
The Yankees have demonstrated strong home performance, finishing the regular season with 50-31 at Yankee Stadium. Their offensive lineup boasts the second-best on-base percentage in the American League at .332. In contrast, the Blue Jays have struggled on the road, holding a 40-41 record, but they lead the majors with a team batting average of .265.
Recent performances show both teams trending positively, each recording a 7-3 record over their last ten games. The Yankees have averaged a batting average of .255 with a team ERA of 4.60, while the Blue Jays have fared slightly better, with a .277 batting average and a 3.94 ERA.
Key Players and Injuries
Notable players include Trent Grisham, who has accumulated nine doubles and 34 home runs for the Yankees. Aaron Judge has been particularly hot, going 17 for 36 with three doubles and three home runs in his last ten games. For the Blue Jays, George Springer leads the team with 32 home runs and a slugging percentage of .556, while Daulton Varsho has contributed significantly with a batting average of .350 in the past ten games.
Injury reports indicate challenges for both teams. The Yankees will be without several key players, including Brent Headrick and Gerrit Cole, both on the injured list. The Blue Jays face their own injury woes, with Jose Berrios and Bo Bichette also sidelined.
As the Blue Jays aim to secure their place in the next round, the stakes are high for both teams. With a combination of strong performances, strategic pitching, and the pressure of postseason play, Game 4 promises to be a thrilling encounter.
