Blue Jays win the series on Josh Donaldson Day

Jose Bautista‘s home run and a strong effort from the supporting cast pushed the Blue Jays to a series win with a 6-3 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Sunday afternoon at the Rogers Centre.

Leadoff hitter Ezequiel Carrera added a home run of his own, building off his excellent Saturday performance by going 2-for-4. Carrera also walked and stole a base, his second of the weekend.

Drew Hutchison (1-0) was exactly what the Blue Jays needed in his spot start duty, throwing five and two-thirds innings. Two solo home runs accounted for the offence against Hutchison, who walked three batters and struck out five on 95 pitches.

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Jesse Chavez was first out of the bullpen, making his second appearance since returning from a minor back injury. A solo home run and deep fly ball to follow would chase him after recording just two outs, though. Brett Cecil recorded two outs of his own before turning it over to Drew Storen, who threw a clean inning and looked as strong as he has all season.

Roberto Osuna handled the ninth inning, recording his 6th save of the season.

Oakland starter Eric Surkamp struggled mightily, allowing six earned runs on nine hits and four walks in four and two-thirds innings. Khris Davis, Josh Reddick, and Chris Coghlan accounted for the three A’s home runs.

The Blue Jays are expected to option Hutchison back to the triple-A Buffalo Bisons immediately after the game, where he will remain the next available starter should the need arise.

Prior to the game, Donaldson was awarded with his 2015 Silver Slugger Award. Donaldson was just the second Blue Jays third baseman to win the award, and the first since Jose Bautista in 2011. On his own bobblehead day, Donaldson caught the ceremonial first pitch from his mother, Lisa French.