John Schneider manager of the Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays are grappling with a significant challenge as they look to fill a crucial rotation spot following Alek Manoah‘s season-ending UCL injury. With their playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the team must make a strategic addition to their starting rotation to salvage their season.
Manoah, who was moved to the 15-day injured list, is set to undergo surgery, ending his season prematurely. Despite a solid performance this year, posting a 3.70 ERA and 26 strikeouts over 24.1 innings in five starts, his absence leaves a void in the Blue Jays’ pitching staff.
One potential solution is Yariel Rodriguez, who has started four games this season with a 4.11 ERA. Rodriguez, currently recovering from a back issue, is showing promise in his return to form. The 27-year-old right-hander could be a key figure for the Blue Jays, possibly making his next start against the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised Rodriguez’s recent performance with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons. “He had a damn good outing,” Schneider said, referencing Rodriguez’s 10-strikeout, four shutout innings against the Worcester Red Sox. Rodriguez allowed just three singles and a walk, demonstrating his potential to contribute at the major league level.
“We’re viewing him to be pitching on a regular turn and would like for him to start,” Schneider added, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Rodriguez’s capabilities.
Despite the injury setback, the Blue Jays’ rotation has seen strong performances from starters Jose Berrios (2.93 ERA), Yusei Kikuchi (3.26 ERA), Chris Bassitt (3.80 ERA), and Kevin Gausman (4.00 ERA but a 3.38 FIP). While another elite arm would be ideal, a reliable fifth starter could suffice to maintain stability in the rotation.
Rodriguez’s pitching repertoire includes a four-seam fastball, slider, splitter, sinker, and cutter. His fastball velocity is impressive, and his sinker is notably fast. Although he needs to reduce his walk rate, Rodriguez has shown an ability to generate swings and misses, striking out batters at a commendable rate.
However, the Blue Jays’ challenges extend beyond their pitching rotation. Offensive struggles from key players such as Bo Bichette, Alejandro Kirk, George Springer, Justin Turner, and Kevin Kiermaier have been a significant concern. Even with contributions from Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Daulton Varsho, and Danny Jansen, the team’s offense has not been consistent enough to secure a stronger position in the standings.
Currently sitting at 33-34 and just two games back from a Wild Card berth, the Blue Jays are at a pivotal juncture. As trade rumors swirl, the team has an opportunity to bolster their roster and intensify their playoff push. Making the right decision for the fifth starter spot is crucial, but addressing their offensive woes will be equally important in their quest to climb the standings and secure a postseason spot.
