SEATTLE, April 13 (UPI) -- Jose Bautista's three-run homer highlighted a big eighth inning Wednesday that powered the Toronto Blue Jays to an 8-3 victory over Seattle.
Trailing 2-1 entering the frame, the Blue Jays exploded for six runs to win going away. After Chris Ray (1-1) issued singles to Yunel Escobar (3-for-5) and Corey Patterson to start the inning, Bautista put Toronto ahead 4-2 with a blast into the left field bullpen.
Jose Molina (3-for-4) added a two-run double and Edwin Encarnacion drove in a run during the rally.
Marc Rzepczynski (1-0) hurled two innings of scoreless relief to earn the victory as the Blue Jays avoided a three-game sweep in Seattle.
Justin Smoak homered and Brendan Ryan added an RBI single for the Mariners.
Seattle starter Jason Vargas yielded one run on five hits over 6 2/3 innings in a hard-luck no-decision.
