Toronto Blue Jays expect to weather the current storm
By David Hill
The Toronto Blue Jays are sliding backwards. After a strong start to the season, and appearing as though they would contend for the postseason once again, they have struggled, losing their last five games. Friday’s beating at the hands of the Orioles marked their ninth loss in their last 12 games, as the Blue Jays have fallen to fourth in the AL East.
However, the Blue Jays are not worried. A meeting between manager Charlie Montoyo and several key players was positive, as they believe that they will weather the current storm.
Charlie Montoyo met with a small group of Blue Jays players after the loss to gauge the vibe of his struggling club. Felt better after hearing their outlook. "We're going to weather to storm," he said.
— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) June 19, 2021
Toronto Blue Jays struggling at inopportune time
Every team goes through slumps over the course of the year. It is just the nature of a 162 game schedule – no one can win every game and teams get hot and cold over those months. The Blue Jays’ cold streak just happens to have come at an inopportune time. A three game sweep at the hands of the Yankees in the middle of the week flipped their positions in the standings, making their postseason quest that much more difficult.
More Blue Jays. A historic beating in Boston. light
It is also easy to see where the problems are. The offense has been solid for most of the year, ranking second in the AL in OPS. Toronto’s starting rotation is beginning to round into shape, as Ross Stripling has fixed his issue with tipping pitches and Alex Manoah has been what the Blue Jays hoped for.
The issue is that the bullpen has scuffled. Tyler Chatwood may not have allowed a run in his last five outings, but he has hardly been a sure thing. The likes of Patrick Murphy, Anthony Castro, and Tim Mayza have not provided the type of relief that the Blue Jays need.
If the Blue Jays are going to contend, the bullpen will be a key focus at the trade deadline. However, they need to start winning games again for that to be addressed this season. At this point, the Blue Jays players are not concerned and expect to right the ship. But they need to do that soon.
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The Toronto Blue Jays are not worried about their current slump. Their key players and manager expect to weather the storm and be fine on the other side.