The Toronto Blue Jays lost Game 2 against the Tampa Bay Rays. This was largely because of two misplays by Jesus Sanchez, the player who was stationed in left field.
On Thursday, August 20th, the Blue Jays have an opportunity to come away with a series victory. If they do, they could pass the Texas Rangers, and end up in a tie with the Minnesota Twins for the last AL Wild Card position.
All of this before starting their last series of the year against the New York Yankees.
Toronto Blue Jays Jesus Sanchez Speaks Candidly Following Loss to Tampa Bay Rays
GettyST. PETERSBURG, FL – AUGUST 19: Jesús Sánchez #12 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts after misplaying a fly ball against the Tampa Bay Rays during the fourth inning of a baseball game at Tropicana Field on August 19, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
Prior to playing their final game of this three-game set against the Rays, Sanchez spoke to the media.
One part of that conversation involved him owning up to his mistakes.
“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.”
Bannon also shared what Sanchez said happened during those misplays.
“We just talked with Jesús Sánchez in Tampa. He lost the first fly over the cat walk, he said. The second one lost in the lights, but he said that’s one he needs to catch. He acknowledged, generally, his fielding hasn’t been good enough this year,” Bannon wrote.
Looking at Jesus Sanchez’s Season With the Toronto Blue Jays
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – MAY 26: Jesús Sánchez #12 of the Toronto Blue Jays is doused in sports drink during his post-game interview following an MLB game against the Miami Marlins at Rogers Centre on May 26, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
Sanchez was acquired from the Houston Astros in a trade back in February.
The 28-year-old is having a decent season offensively, while defensive miscues are stealing the spotlight away from those contributions.
In 87 games this year, Sanchez has eight home runs, one stolen base, 33 RBIs, and 64 hits. He has a .260 batting average.
Looking at the Toronto Blue Jays & the MLB Standings
GettyST. PETERSBURG, FL – AUGUST 19: Kazuma Okamoto #7 of the Toronto Blue Jays follows through on a ground ball against the Tampa Bay Rays during the second inning of the baseball game at Tropicana Field on August 19, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
The Blue Jays currently sit fourth in the AL East.
The Baltimore Orioles are the only team behind them, with the Boston Red Sox, Rays, and Yankees as the only teams ahead of them.
Toronto is 15 games back of the Rays, with a 6-4 record in their last 10 games.
Getting another win against the Rays can help shorten that gap, especially if they can keep their winning ways in their next series against the Yankees.
One way or another, the Blue Jays still have a chance at returning to the MLB playoffs.
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