Toronto Blue Jays all-time roster: Relief Pitcher – Scott Downs (2005-2010)
Scott Downs began his career as a starter, and struggled in that role. Acquired as a free agent following the 2004 season, the Toronto Blue Jays finally made him a reliever.
In that role, Downs found his calling. Serving as a lefty specialist, he led the American League with 81 appearances in 2007, but only had 58 innings of work. Yet, Downs was not just a pitcher who would get lefties out; he also served as the Blue Jays closer for a time in 2009, recording saves in nine of his 13 chances.
However, there is no denying how devastating Downs was against left-handed batters. In his career, lefties had a mere .219/.287/.322 batting line in 1102 plate appearances. His strikeout to walk ratio of 2.89 against left-handed batters only helped to illustrate his overall dominance against that side of the plate.
During his six years in Toronto, Downs posted a 3.13 ERA and a 1.231 WHiP, striking out 341 batters in 407.2 innings. Yet, as solid as those numbers are, they are skewed by his time in the rotation and as a spot starter. Over his last four years with the Blue Jays, Downs had a 2.36 ERA and a 1.149 WHiP, striking out 205 batters in 236.2 innings.
One of the finest lefty relievers in his day, Scott Downs was an important part of the Blue jays bullpen. With his success against lefties, he would certainly deserve that final relief spot in the All-Time Toronto Blue Jays 25 man roster.