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Toronto Blue Jays Gear Up for New Season with Optimism

TORONTO – As Major League Baseball teams prepare for the start of the upcoming season, the Toronto Blue Jays are filled with a renewed sense of hope and confidence.

“I believe we have a really well-rounded team,” said catcher Alejandro Kirk during a media session on Wednesday. “The strength of our lineup, combined with a solid starting rotation and a robust bullpen, was evident during spring training. I am convinced that we will achieve great things this season.”

Kirk’s enthusiasm is likely bolstered by his recent five-year, US$58-million contract extension. However, the real test of this optimism will begin Thursday when the Blue Jays face off against the Baltimore Orioles.

After finishing at the bottom of the American League East with a record of 74-88 last season, there is significant pressure for the team to improve. This year, the roster features notable additions, including veteran pitcher Max Scherzer, reliever Jeff Hoffman, second baseman Andres Gimenez, and outfielder Anthony Santander—all of whom bring a combined investment of US$237.5 million to the team.

Manager John Schneider expressed satisfaction with the dynamic in the revamped clubhouse, stating, “It’s a rare quality you seek—an intangible value that transcends performance on the field. The talent we’ve acquired has naturally created a cohesive atmosphere. Our focus is on striving to win daily, and this commitment is evident from the coaching staff to every player.”

While optimism reigns, the upcoming season brings uncertainties, particularly with stars Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entering the final year of their contracts. Concerns remain regarding the implications of their contract situations on team performance.

Schneider downplayed any notion that the contract uncertainties could heighten pressure on the team. He remarked, “There’s always a level of pressure and expectations that come with competing at this level. Instead of shying away from it, we embrace it. The key is to keep it from affecting our performance and focus.”

Toronto’s general manager, Ross Atkins, refrained from disclosing whether there had been any discussions about extending Guerrero’s contract since the negotiation window closed on February 18. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic about retaining the talented slugger.

As the season kicks off, pitcher Jose Berrios is set to take the mound against Zach Eflin of the Orioles, marking his third opening day start for the Blue Jays and the fifth of his career. Berrios will lead a strong rotation that includes Scherzer, Gausman, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis.

Schneider has positioned Hoffman as the team’s closer, focusing on critical late-inning scenarios. He mentioned that Yimi Garcia could also step into the closer role if needed, following the departure of former closer Jordan Romano, who is now with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Hoffman is coming off a standout season with the Phillies, where he recorded a 2.17 ERA with 10 saves over 68 appearances, along with 89 strikeouts and a remarkably low .197 batting average against.

“What stands out about Jeff is his mindset, professionalism, and the consistency he brings to the mound, along with his diverse pitching arsenal,” Schneider commented.

Meanwhile, outfielder Daulton Varsho, recovering from shoulder surgery, is expected to return to action in April. Schneider noted that Varsho has recently participated in minor-league games, taking at-bats but refraining from throwing.

Scherzer is also managing a sore thumb but is on track to make his scheduled start Saturday, assuming no further complications arise. Other pitchers, Ryan Burr and Erik Swanson, are in the rehabilitation phase, gradually increasing their throwing distances.

Last season, Toronto struggled offensively, ranking 13th in home runs within the 15-team American League, and 26th overall in the majors with just 156 home runs—81 fewer than the league-leading New York Yankees. The team batted .241 as a whole, placing seventh in the AL and 19th in the majors. With new hitting coach David Popkins on board, the Jays aim to enhance their offensive production this year.

On the pitching front, Toronto recorded an earned-run average of 4.29, positioning them 11th in the American League and 22nd in the majors.

The Blue Jays are set for a demanding start to the season, with a schedule that includes 20 games in 21 days. This opening sequence comprises home matchups against Baltimore and Washington, followed by road series against the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and Baltimore Orioles, before returning to Rogers Centre for a series against the Atlanta Braves.

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Source
globalnews.ca