The Toronto Blue Jays are starting another series against the New York Yankees after winning their latest series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Prior to the first game, they announced a plethora of changes, including one involving Jesus Sanchez.
Now, Sanchez dropped the ball, quite literally, twice in Game 2 of their series against the Rays. Now, Sanchez, George Spring, Brandon Valenzuela, Brett Bateman, and a few others are front and center of some changes.
Toronto Blue Jays Announce Jesus Sanchez Decision
GettyToronto Blue Jays Jesus Sanchez speaks honestly about misplays during Tampa Bay Rays loss.
Prior to the first game against the Yankees, the Blue Jays announced their lineup.
One big change was putting Sanchez back into the lineup. Not only that, but keen observes will notice that he will be the Designated Hitter for the game.
Here is the lineup that the Blue Jays announced:
- CF: Brett Bateman
- RF: Nathan Lukes
- C: Alejandro Kirk
- DH: Jesus Sanchez
- SS: Ernie Clement
- 3B: Kazuma Okamoto
- 1B: Brandon Valenzuela
- 2B: Charles McAdoo
- LF: Myles Straw
Starting Pitcher: Mason Fluharty.
Jesus Sanchez Speaks on Big Mistakes Against Tampa Bay Rays
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – MAY 26: Jesús Sánchez #12 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts after hitting a grand slam home run in the sixth inning of their MLB game against the Miami Marlins at Rogers Centre on May 26, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
Following Sanchez getting pulled from the lineup for Game 3 against the Rays, Sanchez spoke about his errors during Game 2.
“I know I need to improve my defense,” Sanchez said via Mitch Bannon of The Athletic. “Because I don’t usually play left field. I’m going to make the adjustment because I’m athletic enough to play left field. I know I’m going to be there, and the next time I’m going to be better.”
Toronto Blue Jays vs New York Yankees & MLB Standings
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – AUGUST 15: Ricky Tiedemann #33 of the Toronto Blue Jays smiles with teammate Brandon Valenzuela #59 before being relieved by manager John Schneider during the third inning of an MLB game against the New York Yankees at the Rogers Centre on August 15, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)
Tonight’s game will be broadcast at 7:05 PM Eastern, 5:05 PM Mountain Time.
While it may not seem like a big deal, anytime you play a divisional rival, it’s a big deal. Especially when the season is winding down and teams are pushing for the MLB playoffs.
The Blue Jays haven’t been able to make a lot of ground on the Yankees in the AL East, but they have caught up in the Wild Card Standings.
Right now, the Minnesota Twins and Texas Rangers are tied for the final American League position. However, Toronto is next up, only 0.5 games back.
The Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians are nipping at the Blue Jays’ heels.
This should be an entertaining game to follow along. Right now, the Blue Jays have a 22.4 percent chance of making the playoffs.
Let’s see if they can make that number bigger after today’s game.
Toronto Blue Jays Announce Jesus Sanchez Decision Before Big Game vs Yankees