Blue Jays’ bullpen comes up short as host New York Mets post a walk-off win

For those inclined to be persuaded by rumours, expect an announcement from the Blue Jays in the coming days that they’ve locked up franchise face Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a lifetime deal.

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At least, that’s according to online pundit Hector Gomez.

The reality is nothing should be believed until it becomes official.

For now and until pen is put to paper, the shadow of Vlad Jr.’s contract status will continue to hover over the club.

The Jays’ headliner on this night was veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt, who gave up four hits to the host New York Mets, while striking out nine over 6.2 innings.

He was in line for the win after exiting with a 2-0 lead, but the Jays ended up losing 3-2.

When Bassitt left, Yimi Garcia worked around a bases-loaded jam.

Brendon Little wasn’t so fortunate as he gave up a two-run, two-out triple.

The revolving bullpen door continued.

Nick Sandlin left with runners at the corner and one out, prompting closer Jeff Hoffman to attempt to douse the fire.

Then came a wake-off sac fly by Francisco Lindor.

Once Bassitt left the game, the game’s pendulum tilted toward the Mets, who escaped this twisting and turning game with the win as they go for a series sweep on Sunday.

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Let’s take a look at two takeaways following the second game of a three-game series before the Blue Jays head to Boston, where the weather isn’t expected to get any better from the cold and rain that descended on Citi Field.

1. King of Queens

The last time Bassitt pitched in the Big Apple against his former team, he had his pregnant wife squarely on his mind. She was back in Toronto expecting to go into labour.

To add to the anxiety, the game was delayed.

Undeterred, Bassitt was near-perfect before winging it back to Toronto to be with her.

There were no such worries on Saturday when he was almost as perfect, even though, as it turned out, he earned a no-decision.

Much like his season debut against Baltimore, Bassitt used his guile in the opening two innings when facing traffic on the basepaths.

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A 1-2-3 third inning was punctuated by a punch-out to Juan Soto. He began the fourth by striking out Pete Alonso on a called strike. Bassitt also struck out the side in the fifth inning.

2. Springer in the air

One of the early season feel-good stories has been George Springer, who has experienced a revival of sorts when so many were writing him off.

Saturday wasn’t one to remember as Springer struck out three times.

The way he’s been swinging the bat, a case could have been made that a move up the order was warranted.

Once again, he hit in the No. 6 hole.

Springer came in on a hard sinking liner with two outs in the fourth that turned into a triple.

No error was given to Springer, who should have played it less aggressively.

Bassitt picked up Springer by recording his sixth strikeout to end the frame.

Then came a crash into the right-field wall that forced Springer out of the game as the Mets drew even.

Springer, who was clearly in discomfort, needed assistance when making his way to the Jays’ clubhouse. There was no immediate word on his status.

Up next

Sunday’s series finale is a scheduled 1:40 p.m. first pitch, but Mother Nature is known to throw a curve.

Toronto’s probable pitcher is Bowden Francis, who earned the win in the right-hander’s season debut versus Washington when he went six innings.

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