JAYS BLOW IT

The bullpen situation has been a topic of concern for the Blue Jays lately, but there's more to it than meets the eye. While the bullpen's performance is essential, the root of the issue lies in the starting pitching. The team needs pitchers who can go deeper into games to reduce the bullpen's workload and prevent fatigue. Currently, the reliance on pitchers like Mitch White and Erik Swanson has led to unfavourable outcomes due to their excessive workload.

One prominent example is Bassitt, whose home and away splits showcase a significant difference in performance. At home, he boasts an impressive 6-1 record with a 2.24 ERA, while on the road, his record drops to 4-4 with an ERA north of 5. This discrepancy in performance emphasizes the importance of solid starting pitching, particularly for away games.

It's essential to consider the decisions made by the management, specifically Schneider or Atkins, when addressing the team's pitching issues. For instance, the team has pitchers like Kikuchi, who can record eight strikeouts but struggles to get out of the fifth inning. The addition of Manoah and possibly Ryu could exacerbate the problem if they face similar challenges. Therefore, investing in a reliable starting pitcher becomes imperative to alleviate pressure on the bullpen.

The idea of transitioning to a six-man rotation has been thrown around, but it comes with its own set of challenges. While it could potentially limit the starts for aces like Gozman and Berrios, it might also lead to more taxing situations for the bullpen. For instance, if Manoah, Kikuchi, and Ryu can only pitch for a few innings per game, the bullpen will be burdened with additional workload.

As the season progresses, the Blue Jays need to carefully strategize their pitching rotation and bullpen usage. Exploring options for a starter who can go deeper into games or acquiring bullpen arms that excel in short bursts might be the most cost-effective approach at the trade deadline. Nevertheless, the team must take action to address the pitching concerns and make necessary changes to stay competitive.

In conclusion, the Blue Jays' bullpen concerns can be traced back to the performance of their starting pitchers. To reduce bullpen fatigue and achieve better results, the team must invest in reliable starters who can go deeper into games. Strategic decisions regarding the rotation and bullpen usage will play a crucial role in their success going forward. By making informed choices at the trade deadline, the Blue Jays can strengthen their pitching roster and improve their overall performance in the league.