Guerrero's Big Night and Gausman's Masterful Start Lead Blue Jays to 2-1 Victory Over Red Sox in Extra Innings

On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the Toronto Blue Jays secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox in a thrilling extra-inning game at Fenway Park. The win, which came in the 11th inning, was punctuated by a sacrifice fly from Bo Bichette that brought in Ernie Clement, sealing the win for the Blue Jays. The victory marked an emotional night for Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who not only had a stellar 3-for-5 performance at the plate but also celebrated his groundbreaking $500 million, 14-year contract extension with the Blue Jays, a deal that includes a record $325 million signing bonus. This historic contract, which will begin in 2026, solidified Guerrero's role as the cornerstone of the team's future and made him one of the highest-paid players in MLB history.

Guerrero’s performance in the game added to the celebration, as he scored Toronto’s first run and played a critical role in driving the team’s offense. The Blue Jays' pitching staff also stepped up in a big way, with Kevin Gausman delivering a brilliant start. The right-hander went eight innings, allowing just one unearned run on four hits, while striking out 10 batters and walking none. This outing marked Gausman’s longest since Aug. 8, 2024, and was his 26th career game with 10 or more strikeouts. After Gausman’s masterful performance, Jeff Hoffman pitched two scoreless innings in relief to earn the win, and Nick Sandlin closed the game, securing his first save of the season.

On the other hand, Boston’s Tanner Houck also pitched well, going 6 2/3 innings and giving up just one run on five hits, with two walks and two strikeouts. Despite his strong outing, Houck was unable to hold off the Blue Jays, especially in extra innings when they capitalized on a key moment. The Red Sox had an opportunity to take the lead in the 10th inning with runners in scoring position, but Hoffman struck out Kristian Campbell to end the threat and preserve Toronto's slim lead.

The game’s momentum was also influenced by some timely defensive plays, with the Red Sox defense continuing its impressive form by turning three double plays throughout the game. Notably, Wilyer Abreu made a significant play in the fourth inning when he caught a fly ball and threw out Andrés Gimenez at second base to complete a 9-3 double play. Abreu’s defensive prowess helped keep the Red Sox in the game, but their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities ultimately proved costly.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox's Kristian Campbell continued his strong start to his major league career by extending his on-base streak to his first 12 games. He became just the third Red Sox player since 1920 to reach base safely in each of his first 12 games, joining legends Ted Williams (1939) and George Scott (1996). Despite Campbell’s early success, the Red Sox were unable to overcome the Blue Jays’ pitching and clutch hitting in the extra innings.

Looking ahead, the Blue Jays will turn to right-handed pitcher Chris Bassitt, who is off to a strong start this season with a 0.71 ERA and a 1-0 record, to face the Red Sox in the series finale on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The Red Sox will counter with Walker Buehler, who has struggled early in the season, sporting an 8.68 ERA with a 1-1 record.

As the Blue Jays look to continue their strong play, their offense and pitching staff will need to remain sharp. With Guerrero's extension secured and the team clicking on all cylinders, Toronto is looking to make a deep run this season. For the Red Sox, they will need to regroup quickly and capitalize on their opportunities to get back on track as they head into the final game of the series.

The Blue Jays @ Red Sox game is scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 1:10 PM PDT.