Blue Jays and the long ball earn a series split with Diamondbacks

The Toronto Blue Jays made the most of their spotty offence on Wednesday, turning five hits into five runs via three long balls and topping the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-2 for a series split.

Russell Martin‘s three-run blast in the bottom of the first, the catcher’s sixth of the season, was all the Blue Jays needed. Edwin Encarnacion offered a helping hand, however, continuing his scorching-hot June by launching his 19th home run in the sixth inning and Troy Tulowitzki followed with a solo shot of his own three batters later.

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Starting pitcher J.A. Happ saw his pitch count rise to 99 quickly over five innings of work, but gave the Blue Jays what they needed. The lefty allowed just two runs, working around six hits and four walks by striking out eight Diamondbacks batters.

Gavin Floyd was first out of the bullpen for Toronto, needing just 12 pitches to retire the side in order with a single strikeout. After Drew Storen pitched a clean seventh inning, allowing one hit and striking out two, Jason Grilli entered to pitch a scoreless frame of his own including a critical 4-3-6 double-play.

Roberto Osuna handled the ninth without a hitch, picking up his 14th save of the years and keeping the bases empty.

Darwin Barney entered the game in the top of the ninth to play third base for Josh Donaldson, who was in discomfort after fouling a ball off his foot earlier in the game.

The Blue Jays welcomed another packed house on Wednesday, continuing a trend that they’ve been able to carry over from their 2015 playoff run.

Toronto has another off day tomorrow before travelling to Chicago for a three-game set against the White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field. Aaron Sanchez (7-1, 3.35 ERA) is scheduled to face 23-year-old left-hander Carlos Rodon (2-6, 4.16 ERA) in the opener.