All Marco Estrada could do was watch the mess that was ensuing in front of his eyes.
The Toronto Blue Jays pitcher was dominant against the Chicago White Sox, allowing one run and striking out five over the course of seven innings. It was arguably Estrada’s most impressive performance in his last handful of outings.
Sign Up to watch every NFL game, plus soccer, tennis and more on DAZN
Estrada had recognized a need to improve when he takes the mound. In his last start against the Oakland Athletics, the right-hander wasn’t content with his control. On Monday, he walked a mere one batter. Estrada put on a show until Blue Jays manager John Gibbons elected for a new pitcher to start the eighth inning.
MORE: Atkins says Jays deals 'make the organization better'
The pitching change was the first domino to fall that allowed the White Sox to mount a resounding comeback to defeat the Blue Jays 7-6. The first half of the game was ideal for the Jays offense. In the top of the first, Josh Donaldson hit his 10th home run of the season. Three innings later, Russell Martin and Justin Smoak would team up for two more home runs. A Darwin Barney double came later and the Jays had a comfortable 6-0 lead.
Justin Smoak hits his 30th home run of the season off of James Shields. #BlueJays pic.twitter.com/OPyS8KIbG2
— Andrew Hockridge (@drewhockridge) August 1, 2017
When Estrada’s night was over, the Jays needed six outs to win and a held five-run cushion. Joe Biagini was his successor.
That’s when the White Sox seized an opportunity. The White Sox would add three runs before Biagini was replaced. Ryan Tepera didn’t do much better, allowing a home run to the first batter he faced to cut the Jays' lead to one. The White Sox eventually earned a walk-off win off the bat of Matt Davidson but the entire game shows the implosion of the Jays' bullpen, most notably of Roberto Osuna who was credited with the loss with his sixth blown save of the season — his second in as many opportunities.
Ricky's boys don't quit! pic.twitter.com/rJPOUyeKM5
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) August 1, 2017
Toronto’s bullpen has pitched 389 innings. That mark is more innings pitched than any American League club, with the Orioles being the next closest at 380. Blue Jays' relievers have combined for 23 wins, which is the most in MLB.