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Phillies fall to Blue Jays in Grapefruit League opener

Nick Pivetta allowed two runs on four hits in two innings, but his slider seemed sharp.

Phillies pitcher Nick Pivetta adjust his cap after giving up a first-inning home run to Curtis Granderson.
Phillies pitcher Nick Pivetta adjust his cap after giving up a first-inning home run to Curtis Granderson.Read moreYONG KIM / Staff Photographer

DUNEDIN, Fla. — Danny Ortiz homered in the eighth inning Friday, but it was not enough as the Phillies fell to the Toronto Blue Jays, 2-1, in their Grapefruit League opener.

Here's a look at the game:

Starting pitcher: Nick Pivetta allowed two runs on four hits in two innings, struck out three and walked one. He opened his start by allowing a homer to Curtis Granderson, who jumped on a hanging curveball. Pivetta's slider looked sharp and it was apparent that he was trying to elevate his fastball more, which was a point the Phillies had stressed with him this offseason.

Three things:

Jesmuel Valentin played third base a day after playing in right field. The Phillies know he can play second base and shortstop, but it is his ability to handle these other two positions that will help his bid to make the opening-day roster.

Mark Leiter Jr. struck out two and allowed two hits in two scoreless innings. Leiter has impressed early in camp and looked strong in his first game appearance. He seems to be a lock to make the team as a swing guy in the bullpen.

Dylan Cozens struck out twice. Including Thursday's exhibition against the University of Tampa, Cozens has struck out in each of his four plate appearances. Not the best start for a player the Phillies need to trim his strikeout rate this season.

Next up: Phillies vs. Baltimore, Saturday, 1:05, NBC Sports Philadelphia and WIP-FM. Zach Eflin will start for the Phillies.