Despite yesterday’s loss, the Toronto Blue Jays aren’t technically out of the postseason just yet, but their playoff chances are hanging by a thread. The Orioles are in a similar position, making this an important matchup for both teams with the regular season winding down. While it’s unlikely either team will make the postseason, this isn’t going to stop either team from giving it their all in tonight’s matchup. Starting things off for Toronto will be Max Scherzer, who enters with a 3-8 record and a 6.07 ERA. For the Orioles, they’ll counter with Chris Bassitt, who enters with an 8-5 record and a 4.64 ERA.
The Blue Jays have lost six of their last 10 games, averaging 4.3 runs per game while batting .249 during that stretch. The Orioles have won five of their last 10, averaging 3.6 runs per game with a .225 batting average. These two pitchers faced off against each other on September 11, and Bassitt was clearly the better pitcher in that matchup. Secherzer allowed six runs on seven hits over five innings, while Bassitt surrendered just two runs on six hits over five innings. This game could go either way, but I’m siding with the Orioles. While Bassitt can struggle with his control at times, I trust him and the Orioles more at home than I do the Blue Jays. Look for the Orioles to come out strong and pick up another win at home.
Blue Jays vs Orioles prediction: Orioles ML (-120) at the time of publishing. Playable to -130.
