Blue Jay Across The Pond

The Blue Jays have fared slightly better in Spring Training this week. They secured a big wins over the Phillies on Saturday, the Yankees on Friday and the Tigers on Thursday. I know the sample sizes are small but which players have caught my eye a positive way and which players have caught my eye in a negative way? (I’ll looking at mainly the regular’s).

Who Has Impressed? *(Stats up until Sat March 9th)

1. José Berríos: 1 game Started, 3.0 IP, 2H, 0 R’s, 1 BB and 3 SO’s. He continues to have a good Spring and was impressive against the Pirates on Tuesday with his changeup as nasty as ever. In my opinion, if Kevin Gausman ISN’T ready to start on Opening Day then José deserves to take that honour. Let’s hope he keeps up the good work!
2. Bo Bichette: 6-12, 3 RBI’s, .407 AVG, .407 OBP, .440 SLG, 1.000 OPS. Mr Consistent, he gets on base, he can drive in runs, what more could you want?
3. Nathan Lukes: 3-5, 3 RBI’s, 3 R’s, .498 AVG. I feel as though Lukes isn’t getting mentioned enough as the 4th OF and he has quietly put up a good Spring. He is capable of playing all OF positions and could take up one of the spots for example when George Springer needs a DH day. He’ll definitely make the Opening Day roster.

Honourable Mentions: Yimi Garcia, Ernie Clement and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Making Progress

1. George Springer: 3-9, 3 R’s, 2 RBI’s, 1 HR, 2 BB’s and .333 AVG. Before Saturday’s game the majority of the fanbase and I were worried about George. He wasn’t getting many base hits and he grounded out multiple times BUT on Saturday not only did he have a multi-hit game, he also hit his first Springer Dinger of 2024, which a 372 ft, 2R shot to deep left field. Hopefully this gives him the confidence boost he needs especially as our leadoff hitter.
2. Isiah-Kiner-Falefa: 2-6, 2 R’s, .369 AVG. IKF continues to be the surprise package of the Spring. He’s made 5 starts at 3B which indicates he’ll start there on Opening Day. His defence is solid and getting the job done offensively which is great to see. He has big shoes to fill at 3B.
3. Jordan Romano: 2 GS, 1.2 IP, 2H, 1R, 0 BB’s and 2 SO’s. Even though he gave up a run this week, Jordan, (our closer), looks like he’s in midseason form. He was impressive on Friday against the Yankees when his velocity topped 98 mph. Long may this continue.

Honourable Mentions: Bowden Francis, Daulton Varsho and Chris Bassitt.

Who Has Struggled?

1. Chad Green: 1 GS, 0.2 IP, 3H, 1R, 2 SO. He’s had a bad start to Spring in general. He gave up 2 R’s last week against the Yankees and he gave up another run against the Phillies on Tuesday. It is only Spring Training as many people say but even when he came back from Tommy John Surgery at the backend of the 2023 season he wasn’t great. Hopefully, Chad will turn his fortunes around sooner rather than later.
2. Spencer Horwitz: 1-9, 1 R, 2 SO, .0565 AVG, 0 RBI’s. He did get a single in Saturday’s game against the Phillies but other than that he’s been largely anonymous. I’m still on the fence as to whether he makes the Opening Day roster so let’s hope he turns his fortunes around next week.
3. Danny Jansen: 0-7, 0R’s, 0 RBI’s, .000 AVG. I like Jano and I’m glad he’s healthy again because if he stays healthy he’ll be catching on Opening Day but he’s had a bad week.

(Not So) Honourable Mentions: Justin Turner, Santiago Espinal and Davis Schneider.

Injured

1. Alek Manoah: As mentioned in a previous article he was scheduled to throw a bullpen which didn’t take place due to lingering problems with his shoulder. MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson stated: ‘Manoah is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day.’ Who knows when we’ll see him back?
2. Kevin Gausman: Much better news on the injury front for OUR ACE. He threw a bullpen session on Saturday and felt good. He’s aiming to throw 75 pitches before the end of Spring and he also said that he’ll be ready for Opening Day. Expect him to make at least one start before then!