Blue Jays' Kirk smashes two homers in 13-4 victory over Rays

Toronto Blue Jays secured their first AL East title in ten years by defeating the Tampa Bay Rays 13-4 in their final regular-season game. Alejandro Kirk's two home runs, including his first career grand slam, contributed to this victory. The Blue Jays needed a win or a New York Yankees loss to clinch the division crown for the seventh time in team history and the first time since 2015. With a record of 94-68, Toronto also earned the best record in the American League, ensuring home-field advantage throughout the AL playoffs.

Kirk's remarkable performance included a career-high 15 home runs this season, with a total of six RBIs in the game. George Springer and Addison Barger also hit home runs for the Blue Jays, who completed their 11th series sweep of the year and extended their winning streak to four games. Springer went 3 for 4 with two RBIs and two runs scored.

In the pitching department, Mason Fluharty's 1 1/3 scoreless innings of relief were crucial in securing the win. Jonathan Aranda and Richie Palacios stood out for the Rays, who finished the season with a 77-85 record. Aranda had three RBIs, while Palacios contributed three hits.

The Blue Jays' victory was highlighted by Kirk's second homer, Barger's two-run homer, and Springer's 32nd home run. Toronto will now prepare to host Game 1 of the best-of-five Division Series on Saturday against the winner of the Wild Card Series between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.