An important decision every MLB team has to make is who the opening day starting pitcher will be. Getting the season off on a winning note is vital. Just look at what happened last season. The Blue Jays lost 9 of their first 10 games in 2017 and never recovered. For some teams, such as the Cleveland Indians or LA Dodgers the choice is obvious. For other teams, like Toronto, the choice is less obvious with multiple options being capable of being the team ace or there isn't a true ace in the rotation to choose from. The Blue Jays, on paper, have one of the strongest rotations in the AL East. Any one of JA Happ, Sanchez, Stroman or Marco Estrada could be viable options to start on opening day.
I think Aaron Sanchez should be the opening day starter for a number of reasons. First, he has a really great arsenal of pitches that most batters have trouble with. Second, it would be the ultimate comeback after a horrendous 2017 season where Sanchez spent the vast majority of it on the disabled list with a recurring blister on his middle finger. Also another potential choice for opening day starter, Marcus Stroman, is currently dealing with an inflamed shoulder and may not be ready to start the season right away. The Blue Jays face the Yankees at home opening day. Aaron Sanchez did not pitch against the Yankees in 2017. However, in 2016 Sanchez pitched into the 7th inning in 2 of his three starts vs. the Bronx bombers and held the Yankees to 3 runs or less in each start.
What do you think? Comment below and follow me on twitter @tpoole00. Also check out my blog @ proudbcer.blogspot.com.
Game recaps will resume opening day. I will also do a weekly 10 random thoughts each Monday starting April 2. Look for an A to Z guide mid-March.
