baseball team, Toronto Blue Jays, securing victories before a crucial journey to face off against teams in Cincinnati and New York (Yankees in the Bronx)

The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move ahead of the postseason, claiming infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, August 31, 2025. This move comes just before the postseason roster deadline, bringing Kiner-Falefa back to the Blue Jays after he was traded to the Pirates at last year's deadline.

Kiner-Falefa played 83 games for the Blue Jays in 2024, contributing with a .264 batting average, one home run, 35 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases. He is eligible to play for the Blue Jays in the post-season, as the waiver claim was made before September 1.

Meanwhile, the Blue Jays' pitching staff showed resilience in their recent game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Reliever Tommy Nance recorded two outs in the top of the 5th inning, turning the game around for the Blue Jays. Brendon Little, Louis Varland, Seranthony Dominguez, Jeff Hoffman, and Max Scherzer combined for five scoreless innings from the bullpen, with Scherzer allowing four runs in his four innings of work.

The Blue Jays' win over Milwaukee maintained their three-game lead in the American League East. However, they are half a game behind the Detroit Tigers in the overall standings. The Blue Jays are hoping for a first-round bye in the AL's post-season.

In offence, Tyler Heineman doubled in a runner in the bottom of the 5th inning, and Myles Straw hit a two-run single in the same inning. The Blue Jays defeated the Brewers 8-4 on Sunday.

The Blue Jays will continue their series against the Cincinnati Reds, with Chris Bassitt getting the start for Toronto. After their series against the Reds, the Blue Jays will play a three-game series against the New York Yankees.

Unfortunately, the Blue Jays will be without reliever Yimi Garcia for the remainder of the season. Garcia has been transferred to the 60-day injured list, and is expected to undergo season-ending surgery to clean up scar tissue in his throwing elbow.

Hunter Greene will be the starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds in the same series. The Blue Jays will be looking to maintain their lead in the American League and secure a first-round bye in the post-season.

This report was first published on Aug. 31, 2025, by The Canadian Press.

baseball team, Toronto Blue Jays, securing victories before a crucial journey to face off against teams in Cincinnati and New York (Yankees in the Bronx)