In a thrilling display of small ball tactics, the Toronto Blue Jays edged out the Washington Nationals 5-3, thanks in part to a strategic focus on bunting cultivated during spring training. Manager John Schneider's innovative approach, which included a bunting competition incentivizing players with cash rewards, paid off as Will Wagner and Ernie Clement executed crucial bunts, advancing runners and setting the stage for a late-game comeback.

The game reached a pivotal moment in the eighth inning when George Springer opened with a single, followed by Wagner's successful bunt after Nationals pitcher Jose Ferrer mishandled the play. Schneider's bunting initiative highlighted players' dedication and provided the necessary spark for Bo Bichette's game-winning hit, re-establishing the lead and showcasing the effectiveness of tactical fundamentals in modern baseball.

Chris Bassitt delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching 5 2/3 innings, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a narrow 2-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bassitt allowed just two hits and one earned run while striking out four batters and walking three. The game's opening score came in the third inning when Nathan Lukes hit an RBI single, followed by Ernie Clement scoring on a wild pitch from Pirates starter Bailey Falter.

Pittsburgh managed to get on the board in the sixth inning with a sacrifice fly by Joey Bart, bringing Isiah Kiner-Falefa home. However, the Blue Jays held on for the win, with Bassitt improving to 2-0 for the spring. Falter took the loss, giving up four hits and two earned runs over five innings.

Bo Bichette continues to shine in spring training, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a 7-4 victory over the Boston Red Sox with three hits and a pair of runs driven in. His performance included a first-inning single, which set the stage for a scoring spree, highlighted by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s double that helped tie the game. Bichette's contributions were crucial as he also drove in another run in the second inning with another single, putting the Blue Jays ahead 5-2.

Despite Chris Bassitt's rocky outing—yielding two earned runs over 2.1 innings—the Blue Jays managed to secure their seventh win of the preseason. The offensive surge included back-to-back home runs from Ernie Clement and Davis Schneider, reassuring the team's power as they prepare for the regular season. With Alejandro Kirk also adding to the offensive output, the Blue Jays look set to face the New York Yankees next, raising excitement for their upcoming matchups.

The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully avoided arbitration with their star slugger, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., securing a one-year contract worth $28.5 million. The announcement came on Thursday, alongside agreements for six other arbitration-eligible players, including notable names such as infielder Ernie Clement and catcher Alejandro Kirk.

Guerrero Jr., who played a pivotal role in the Blue Jays lineup, concluded a strong season with a batting average of .323, complemented by 30 home runs and 103 RBIs. This performance earned him a fourth All-Star selection and recognition as a Silver Slugger.

The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully avoided salary arbitration with outfielder Daulton Varsho, who is set to earn $8.2 million in 2025, a notable increase from his $5.65 million for the previous year. This contract figure surpasses the initial projection of $7.7 million, reflecting Varsho's value to the team.

In the 2023 season, Varsho recorded a .214 batting average with a .700 OPS over 136 games, contributing 18 home runs, 58 RBI, and 10 stolen bases. His defensive prowess earned him a Gold Glove award, showcasing his skills with 28 defensive runs saved.

Despite his achievements, a shoulder injury required Varsho to undergo surgery last September, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming Spring Training. Since joining the Blue Jays from the Arizona Diamondbacks before the 2023 season, Varsho has had a career batting average of .225 and has established himself as a key player.

The Blue Jays also reached agreements with other players, including starting pitcher Alek Manoah and reliever Erik Swanson, while awaiting arbitration decisions for Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ernie Clement, and Alejandro Kirk.