MLB: Gausman strikes out 8 batters; ending the Blue Jays’ three-game losing streak

Kevin Kiermaier hit a two-run homer in his return from injury, and the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Washington Nationals 6-3 on Saturday to end a three-game losing streak.

Kevin Gausman (2-3) went five and a third scoreless innings on the mound, allowing three hits while striking out eight batters. He has given up just two earned runs in 24 innings over his last four starts.

Danny Jansen and Daulton Varsho both had two hits safely for the Blue Jays, who had lost eight of their previous 11 games.

Kiermaier returned after missing nine games with a hip injury and hit a long ball to reliever Derek Law in the eighth inning. It was his first home run of the season.

CJ Abrams and Luis Garcia scored twice for the Nationals, who suffered just their third loss in their last nine games. They were trying to post a winning record for the first time since July 1, 2021, when they posted a 40-39 record.

Nationals starter Jake Irvin (2-3) allowed four unearned runs and five hits in five innings.

Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette was ejected by the umpire behind home plate in the fifth inning after he was struck out. He threw his helmet to the ground after the takedown.

Trailing 4-0, the Nationals loaded the bases in the seventh. Abrams then hit a sacrifice fly and Nick Senzel added a run-scoring single.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider made some changes to the lineup before the game, but the Nationals defense played a big role in the Blue Jays’ strong start. She actually made three mistakes in the first round.