Like many of our friends throughout the SB Nation network, we are simulating the 2020 MLB season with MLB The Show 20. While we are unable to stream the games as they would otherwise be happening, we will try to get ahead of the curve and post about the games on the same day they would have taken place. Or, you know, at least get them back on schedule. Now, onto the recap!
Matthew Boyd tossed eight scoreless innings, and the simulated Detroit Tigers made a slim lead stand up in a 2-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday afternoon. Joe Jimenez gave up a run in the ninth to spoil the shutout, but still retired the side for his 15th save of the season.
This was a fairly quick game, as both starters were efficient. Blue Jays lefthander Eric Lauer gave up some hard contact, and had to wiggle out of trouble at times — including a two-on, no out situation in the bottom of the first — but he surrendered just one run, a Jeimer Candelario solo homer, in six innings of work. Reliever Sam Gaviglio gave up a second solo shot, this one from Niko Goodrum, in the seventh to double Detroit’s lead.
And, well, that was about it. Boyd was rock solid all game, allowing just five hits while striking out seven. He did not allow more than one baserunner in an inning, and it wasn’t until Cavan Biggio doubled in the top of the eighth that the Jays put a runner in scoring position. The win was Boyd’s seventh on the year, and comes four days after Boyd left his previous start after just four pitches due to a minor injury.
Up next
The Tigers were off on Monday, and are back in action on Tuesday evening against the Chicago White Sox. After that, they head out west for a series against the Los Angeles Dodgers before another tilt with the White Sox next week, followed by a three-game road set in Baltimore to close out the month.
Check out our full simulation stats here!