The Toronto Blue Jays came close to finishing off the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 6. They trailed just 3-1 heading into the ninth inning, with their hot-hitting bottom of the order stepping up to the plate.
Catcher Alejandro Kirk led off against closer Roki Sasaki. The Jays immediately got a lucky break, although it was one that carried some risk. Sasaki threw a wayward pitch that accidentally hit Kirk’s hand. Kirk appeared to be in pain, his frustration visible to all watching the game.
The Blue Jays quickly sought to capitalize on this opportunity. However, their good fortune was soon offset by an unlucky hit and a critical misplay. Kirk was replaced by pinch runner Myles Straw. Postseason hero Addison Barger then delivered a perfectly placed fly ball between the left and center fielders.
Unfortunately for Toronto, the fly ball got lodged directly under the outfield fence, resulting in a ground-rule double rather than a potential RBI. What followed was a moment of heartbreak.
With runners on second and third and no outs, George Springer was poised to take the mound once again, giving the Jays a chance to rally. But after a pop fly from Ernie Clement, Addison Barger’s line drive flyout turned into a double play due to a base-running error. This costly mistake allowed the Dodgers to escape with the win, seizing the momentum heading into Game 7.
As of now, it remains uncertain whether Alejandro Kirk will suit up for Game 7 following the hit by pitch. The painful blow to his hand adds to the list of injuries that have plagued the Blue Jays’ lineup throughout the postseason.
The Jays will need their entire roster healthy and focused as they prepare for the decisive game against the Dodgers.
https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/toronto-blue-jays/blue-jays-news-roki-sasaki-nails-alejandro-kirk-9th-inning-world-series-game-6
