Toronto Blue Jays continue revamping rotation with Yusei Kikuchi

The Toronto Blue Jays needed to make some moves with their rotation this offseason. Robbie Ray and Steven Matz departed in free agency, with Kevin Gausman coming in. However, the Blue Jays still needed to add another piece in the middle of their rotation as there were questions beyond their first three starters.

One of those spots has been filled. According to Jon Heyman, the Blue Jays have signed Yusei Kikuchi to solidify the back of the rotation. The contract is for three years and is worth $36 million per Bob Nightengale.

Toronto Blue Jays show they mean business with Yusei Kikuchi

Although he is not going to be a top of the rotation arm, Kikuchi can be a solid piece for any team. He had a respectable showing in 2021, posting a 4.41 ERA and a 1.318 WHiP in his 157 innings, striking out 163 batters with 62 walks. A first time All Star, he easily had the best season in his major league career.

As solid as that performance may have been, he did struggle down the stretch. Kikuchi allowed 27 runs, with 25 earned, on 40 hits and 19 walks in 31.2 innings over his final eight appearances. That total includes his seven innings of shutout ball against the Royals at the end of August.

There is a possible explanation for those struggles. Plenty of players wore down as the season continued last year after the truncated 2020 campaign. While there is risk in this deal because of his performance down the stretch, it is probable that he can improve going forward.

It also helps that there will be minimal pressure on Kikuchi with the Blue Jays. Although they are looking to contend, Kikuchi is going to slot into the back of their rotation. He provides an excellent fourth starter and shows that the Blue Jays are serious about contending for the AL East.

Yusei Kikuchi is heading to the Toronto Blue Jays on a three year deal. He is the type of arm they needed to fill out the back of their rotation.