The Toronto Blue Jays travel to PNC Park to open a midweek interleague set with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Both teams are heading down the stretch with postseason implications on the line—Toronto in the AL Wild Card mix and Pittsburgh scrapping in the NL Central. First pitch is set for 6:40 PM ET in Pittsburgh.
Team Analysis
Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto continues to be defined by its power-driven lineup. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains the centerpiece, but the supporting cast of Bo Bichette and George Springer has provided steady production. Lately, the Blue Jays’ offense has shown signs of returning to its 2021–22 form, ranking in the top five in slugging percentage since the All-Star break.
The pitching staff has leaned heavily on Kevin Gausman at the top, while José Berríos and Chris Bassitt have provided innings stability. The bullpen has been somewhat erratic, with closer Jordan Romano struggling in high-leverage spots, forcing manager John Schneider to occasionally pivot to a committee approach. On the road, Toronto has been streaky, alternating between dominant showings and quiet bats, which will play a big role in this series.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates have been one of the NL’s biggest surprises this season. Led by young stars like Oneil Cruz and Henry Davis, the lineup is no longer an easy matchup. Bryan Reynolds continues to anchor the middle of the order, while Ke’Bryan Hayes has supplied timely hitting.
Pitching has been a mixed bag—Mitch Keller has been a true ace, consistently keeping Pittsburgh in games, but depth beyond the top of the rotation remains thin. The bullpen, however, has been a steady asset, with David Bednar locking things down in the ninth. At home, Pittsburgh has played with energy and urgency, feeding off a supportive PNC Park crowd that has playoff hopes for the first time in years.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Blue Jays’ Power Bats vs. Keller’s Command: If Keller can keep Guerrero Jr. and Bichette from going deep, the Pirates’ chances spike significantly.
- Romano and the Toronto Bullpen vs. Pirates’ Late-Inning Push: The Blue Jays’ relief corps has been vulnerable, while Pittsburgh has shown resilience with late rallies.
- PNC Park Factor: Pittsburgh plays better in close, low-scoring contests, while Toronto prefers slugfests. Which tempo wins out?
Prediction
This matchup looks like a classic clash of styles: Toronto’s big bats against Pittsburgh’s disciplined pitching and small-ball execution. If Keller can set the tone, the Pirates have a real shot at stealing the opener. But Toronto’s depth and power advantage can’t be overlooked, especially against a Pirates staff that thins after Keller. Expect a tight game that leans toward whichever bullpen holds its ground.
Final Score Prediction: Blue Jays 5, Pirates 4
Best Bets
- Blue Jays Moneyline – Toronto’s bats should eventually break through.
- Over 8.5 Runs – Both bullpens are vulnerable, and PNC Park can play hitter-friendly in late-summer weather.
- Player Prop: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to Hit a Home Run – He matches up well against Keller’s tendency to leave fastballs over the plate.
