Ross Atkins is all smiles as Randal Grichuk made him look like a genius today. Hard to do most days, but Grichuk delivered for the bluebirds as his two-homer day propelled them over the Orioles. With an offence that has been struggling out of the gate, it was a great sign for Blue Jays fans to see someone go yard, not once, but twice.
On the other hand, the Jays starting pitchers continue to dominate as Matt Shoemaker picked up where he left off, dishing 7 solid innings of 2 hit ball, mixing in 8 punchouts. Marco Estrada 2.0? Could be better if he keeps this up, as Shoemaker’s acquisition is another move that Team Shatkins should receive some early praise for. It’s early, so let’s all not line up at once to congratulate them, but it’s a positive sign for the team when a lot of people didn’t think there would be very many positives.
The Blue Jays now make their way to Cleveland as Aaron Sanchez will take the bump against the Indians on Thursday. Sanchez, to me, is the X-Factor of this ball club. The Jays’ veteran has the ability to dominate the league and if he can stay healthy for 30 starts, there’s even a chance he makes it into the Cy Young conversation at the end of the season. Good pitching aside, the bluebirds will need their offence to find their rhythm in order for the team to enjoy some success this season, but don’t let the first two weeks get your panties in a bunch. Let’s wait until Vlad is in the lineup every day before we tear about the lack of production. Once Vladdy arrives, everybody’s swag in the clubhouse will go up a notch, and it will be then, we can throw a microscope over the lineup. Until then, let’s hope the team can manage to stay 500, the starters can continue to pitch well, the bullpen figures out their roles, and Charlie Montoyo continues to get creative with the lineup.
"I think we're gonna sign a couple more guys to $52 million to get them going." – Charlie Montoyo 😂 pic.twitter.com/oAJ3rksJbv
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 3, 2019
Two weeks until Vladdy Jr arrives, are you ready?
This Vladimir Guerrero Jr. home run was LOUD. (via @RumblePonies) pic.twitter.com/zrzg4wK8l8
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 4, 2018
Shug McSween
Shug McSween is a veteran here at DeanBlundell.com and has been contributing since day one. A sports nut with a sophisticated opinion, expect McSween to cover any and everything he's passionate about. When he's not busy writing and editing for our crew, McSween likes to get away via fairways and greens. He also contributes to The Hockey Writers, NHLTradeRumors.me and BballRumors.com
