Martínez Powers Guardians Past Blue Jays with Two-Homer Night
TORONTO — Angel Martínez delivered a career-best performance with two home runs, while Daniel Schneemann added his first-ever leadoff homer as the Cleveland Guardians secured an 8-6 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night.
Key Highlights
- Martínez’s Breakout Game: The Guardians’ infielder blasted two homers, marking his first multi-HR game in the majors. His second homer came after an 11-pitch battle with Toronto’s Max Scherzer.
- Schneemann’s Milestone: Schneemann opened the game with a leadoff home run, setting the tone for Cleveland’s offensive surge.
- Scherzer’s Struggles Continue: Blue Jays starter Max Scherzer (1-3) lasted just 2⅓ innings, surrendering seven runs—his third short outing in five starts this season.
Game Breakdown
The Guardians exploded early, scoring five runs in the first inning, capped by Martínez’s three-run shot. He struck again in the third, chasing Scherzer with a solo blast.
Toronto fought back with solo homers from Kazuma Okamoto (430 feet into the second deck) and Jesús Sánchez, but Cleveland’s bullpen held firm. Guardians starter Gavin Williams (4-1) allowed six runs over six innings but earned the win. Relievers Hunter Gaddis, Erik Sabrowski, and Cade Smith (sixth save) closed the door.
Injury Watch
Blue Jays outfielder Nathan Lukes exited in the first inning with left hamstring tightness after hitting a leadoff double. His status for Saturday’s game remains uncertain.
What’s Next?
The series continues Saturday with Toronto’s Kevin Gausman (1-1, 2.54 ERA) facing Cleveland’s Joey Cantillo (1-0, 3.20 ERA).
— Reported by Nexio News
