Blue Jays: Vladimir Gerrero Jr. has already won his 5th home run …

TORONTO – Vladimir Guerrero beat junior solo homer as the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Oakland Athletics 4-1 on Friday night at the Rogers Center.

Gerrero started scoring in the first inning, with starter Dalton Jefferies (0-1) making an offer on the fence. Blue Jays also has the powerhouse hitter, single and walk, leading the Majors with five homers this season.

“He’s definitely a force to be reckoned with,” said athletics manager Mark Coates. He showed it throughout the game, at his shows on the plate tonight. He is a dynamic player. ⁇

Lourdes Guerrell Jr., Rimel Tapia and Jack Collins secured two balls for the Blue Jays (5-3), who won the first game of the three-match series against the Athletics.

Stopper Jordan Romano closed the books to record a fifth save on several occasions in the ninth inning.

Tapia gave Toronto a 2-0 lead in the second inning as he went from first base through Santiago Espinal to cross the home plate on a double.

Blue Jays starter Ross stripped out the first seven batters in athletics before allowing stripping Kevin Smith to double. He did not give up a run in four innings.

“He did what we needed him to do,” said Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo. We need at least four innings and he gave the same. We were in front when he left Putta. This is a very good thing on his part. ⁇

Pitch hitter Chad Pinder drove the Athletics singles in the sixth inning.

Tim Maija allowed two singles before replacing Adam Zimber (3-0) …