A’s Continue Hot Streak at Blue Jays’ Expense

OAKLAND — John Jaha hit a three-run home run and Omar Olivares recovered from a shaky start to get his third victory since coming to Oakland as the Athletics rallied past the Toronto Blue Jays, 8-4, Saturday.

It was Oakland’s seventh win in eight meetings with the Blue Jays this season and pulled the A’s into a tie with Boston in the American League wild-card race.

Toronto, losing for the eighth time in nine games, was hurt by two bases-loaded walks issued by reliever Paul Spoljaric in the fourth inning and two walks by starter Chris Carpenter before Jaha homered.

Olivares (11-9), acquired with Randy Velarde from the Angels on July 29, faced a 3-0 deficit before retiring a batter but was tough on the Blue Jays the rest of the way.

He gave up four runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings to beat Toronto for the first time in six career decisions. He struck out two and walked three for his third win in five starts for Oakland.

Carpenter (9-7) couldn’t hold a 3-0 lead, lasting three innings. He gave up six runs on seven hits while walking four and striking out three.

Shannon Stewart extended his hitting streak to 19 games with a single to start the game for Toronto.

The Blue Jays have scored in the first inning 41 times and are 26-15 in those games.