Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s Clutch Home Run Lifts Blue Jays Over Cubs 2-1: Toronto Wins Series Behind Max Scherzer – August 14, 2025

Thursday, August 14th, 2025

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Powers Blue Jays Past Cubs 2-1

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. delivered a clutch two-run homer in the seventh inning, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a 2-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs. This pivotal home run secured the series win for the AL East-leading Blue Jays.

Guerrero's Game-Changing Home Run

Guerrero’s blast was his 20th home run of the season and came off Cubs starter Matthew Boyd. After Davis Schneider drew a leadoff walk to start the seventh, Ernie Clement executed a sacrifice bunt, moving Schneider into scoring position. Guerrero then lined an 0-2 pitch 402 feet to left-center, providing Toronto with all the runs it needed.

Max Scherzer's Strong Start

Max Scherzer pitched seven-plus innings for Toronto, yielding only one run on five hits. With this outing, Scherzer improved his career record to 6-2 in 12 starts against the Cubs. He struck out several key batters and kept the Cubs lineup in check until surrendering a solo homer to Michael Busch in the sixth inning.

Critical Relief and Key Moment

After a Matt Shaw leadoff double in the eighth, Scherzer exited the game. Brendon Little took over, walking pinch-hitter Seiya Suzuki before both runners advanced on a wild pitch. Little managed to escape trouble by striking out Ian Happ and Kyle Tucker, and Seranthony Domínguez closed the inning with a strikeout of Carson Kelly to squash Chicago’s scoring threat.

Blue Jays' Bullpen and Home Advantage

Jeff Hoffman handled the ninth inning for Toronto, earning his 27th save in 32 opportunities. The Blue Jays’ victory improved their impressive home record to 40-20 this season.

Matthew Boyd’s Tough Loss

Matthew Boyd allowed just two hits over seven innings for the Cubs, recording five strikeouts and a walk. Despite a strong performance, the two-run homer by Guerrero proved decisive.

Notable Performances and Debut

Michael Busch provided the lone Cubs run with a solo home run in the sixth, marking his 24th homer of the year. Cubs prospect Owen Caissie, promoted from Triple-A Iowa before the game, made his major league debut about 30 miles from his hometown of Burlington, Ontario. Caissie finished 0-for-4 with a strikeout.

Impressive Interleague Record

The Blue Jays improved to a major league-best 24-12 in interleague play, continuing their dominance against National League opponents.

Looking Ahead

For the Cubs, right-hander Colin Rea (9-5, 4.09 ERA) is scheduled to face the Pittsburgh Pirates' Braxton Ashcraft (3-2, 3.19 ERA) on Friday. The Blue Jays will send right-hander Chris Bassitt (11-6, 4.18 ERA) to the mound against Texas Rangers ace Jacob deGrom (10-5, 2.86 ERA).

In summary

Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s two-run home run in the seventh secured a 2-1 win for the Toronto Blue Jays over the Chicago Cubs, with Max Scherzer delivering a quality start and the bullpen preserving the lead. The Blue Jays showcased their home dominance and strengthened their interleague performance, while Cubs prospect Owen Caissie debuted near his hometown. The teams now look ahead to their upcoming series matchups with strong pitching projected.

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