Toronto Blue Jays vs. Pittsburgh Pirates: Preview, Odds, and Pitching Matchup for August 18, 2025

Monday, August 18th, 2025

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Pittsburgh Pirates: Game Preview for August 18, 2025

The Toronto Blue Jays (73-52), currently sitting atop the AL East, travel to face the Pittsburgh Pirates (52-73), who are fifth in the NL Central, at PNC Park. The first pitch is set for 6:40 p.m. EDT, kicking off a three-game series in Pittsburgh.

Pitching Probables

The Blue Jays are sending Kevin Gausman (8-9, 3.79 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 138 strikeouts) to the mound, while the Pirates are calling on rookie sensation Paul Skenes (7-9, 2.13 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 166 strikeouts). With two talented starters, oddsmakers project a tight contest, setting the over/under at 7 runs.

Team Overview and Recent Performance

The Pirates have compiled a 34-29 record at home and own a team ERA of 4.04, ranking eighth in the National League. The Blue Jays, meanwhile, are 31-31 on the road and boast MLB's top team batting average at .269. This matchup marks the first time these teams have met this season.

Top Performers to Watch

Pittsburgh is led offensively by Isiah Kiner-Falefa, batting .267 with 17 doubles, two triples, and one home run. Nick Gonzales has contributed 13 hits and an RBI in his last 10 games.

For Toronto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stands out with 51 extra-base hits, including 30 doubles and 21 home runs, while Daulton Varsho is scorching hot, going 13 for 34 with two doubles, five home runs, and 14 RBI in his past 10 games.

Recent Form

In their last 10 games, the Pirates are 3-7 with a .224 batting average and a 5.82 ERA, being outscored by 28 runs. The Blue Jays have gone 6-4 over that span, hitting .287 and carrying a 4.30 ERA, while outscoring opponents by 17 runs.

Injury Report

The Pirates are dealing with several key injuries, including Oneil Cruz (concussion, 7-day IL), Endy Rodriguez (elbow, 60-day IL), Enmanuel Valdez (shoulder, 60-day IL), Justin Lawrence (elbow, 60-day IL), Tim Mayza (shoulder, 60-day IL), and Related Links

• Toronto Blue Jays News & Updates
• Toronto Blue Jays Schedule & Scores
• Pittsburgh Pirates News & Updates
• Pittsburgh Pirates Schedule & Scores
• MLB News