Blue Jays Gameday (May 1): Toronto looks to bounce back after losing the first game of the Twins series
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Photo credit: © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
Veronica Chung
May 1, 2026, 18:07 EDT
The Blue Jays have been consistently inconsistent thus far, but on the brighter side, they have won three straight series.
After dropping the first game of their four-game series against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field yesterday, the Blue Jays are looking to start the month of May with a win.
With the Twins sending rookie pitcher and former Blue Jays prospect Simeon Woods Richardson, the Blue Jays have a higher probability of putting up a crooked number on the scoreboard, especially compared to last night. The last time Toronto’s lineup faced Woods Richardson on April 10, he gave up six hits, one walk and five earned runs. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Jesús Sánchez, and Andrés Giménez all produced meaningful hits against Minnesota’s stater and hope to replicate that success on the road.
For the Blue Jays lineup that doesn’t strike out much, taking a patient approach at the plate and avoiding weaker contact will be key in getting to Woods Richardson early. More important, the top of the order would have to get on base and help score runs for the Blue Jays to give more cushion for themselves. Having George Springer back in the lineup should help make the lineup more powerful and competitive at least on paper.
Currently, the Blue Jays’ offence ranks towards the bottom of the league in numerous categories. That’s mostly due to injury and slower start, but if Toronto wants a fighting chance at getting close to the top of the division, turning this around May would be a good way to lay a solid foundation for future wins.
May the odds be in their favour tonight.

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
First Pitch: 8:10 PM ET
Watch/Listen: Sportsnet One, SN590

Starting Pitchers

Toronto Blue Jays — Patrick Corbin: 0-0 record, 3.72 ERA, 19.1 IP, 16 SO, 6 BB
Minnesota Twins — Simeon Woods Richardson: 0-4 record, 6.30 ERA, 30.0 IP, 15 SO, 13 BB

Lineups:

Blue Jays:
  1. George Springer – DH
  2. Jesús Sánchez – RF
  3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – 1B
  4. Kazuma Okamoto – 3B
  5. Daulton Varsho – CF
  6. Lenyn Sosa – 2B
  7. Yohendrick Piñango – LG
  8. Andrés Giménez – SS
  9. Tyler Heineman – C
Twins:
  1. Byrn Buxton – CF
  2. Austin Martin – RF
  3. Ryan Jeffers – C
  4. Josh Bell – 1B
  5. Victor Caratini – C
  6. Luke Keaschall – 2B
  7. Royce Lewis – 3B
  8. Brooks Lee – SS
  9. James Outman – LF