Jays Jots: Spring Training Game 14

Feb 25, 2013; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Josh Johnson (55) against the Boston Red Sox during a spring training split squad game at Florida Exchange Park. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY SportsAfter getting their fill of seeing the Orioles, Phillies, Yankees, and Tigers, the Toronto Blue Jays finally got to play a Spring Training game a new opponent, matching up Friday afternoon against the Atlanta Braves in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The fresh match-up was a good mix for the Blue Jays, as they moved their spring record to 6-7-1 with a 7-1 win over the Braves.

The game was as lopsided as the score turned out to be. Atlanta was able to muster just two hits off of Toronto pitching on the afternoon while the Blue Jays beat around Kris Medlen, David Hale, and Gus Schlosser for 11 hits as a squad.

– The aforementioned pitching was sparked immediately by Josh Johnson, who is showing that he is just about ready for the start of the year. The right-hander threw 3.2 perfect innings, striking out 5 in the process. In the process, Johnson ran his spring ERA to 1.17 over 7.2 innings this spring. It was Johnson’s first start after previously coming in relief after R.A. Dickey.

– Jeremy Jeffress threw his longest outing of the spring, giving up the only run (unearned) on the day for Atlanta. His 2.1 inning were also significant as the 24-year-old avoided walking a single hitter, something that has plagued him throughout his career. Jeffress also struck-out three on the day.

– Joining Jeffress and Johnson in shutting down the Braves were Esmil Rogers, Steve Delabar, and Tyson Brummett. Rogers also struck-out 2 in his outing.

– What more can we say about Anthony Gose in this space? The kid has been on fire this spring and added a 3-4 day today, scoring 4 runs, stealing 2 bases, driving in a pair, and hitting his first home run of the spring. Gose could figure prominently if Colby Rasmus continues to nurse his sore right shoulder.

– Rajai Davis, getting his first mention this year, went 2 for 4 with three Runs Batted In. The big notch on his belt came from on a triple in the seventh inning that basically became the nail in the Braves coffin.

The Blue Jays will stay home in Dunedin on Saturday for a 1:05pm match-up with the, wait for it, Detroit Tigers. Ricky Romero will get the start and will be followed by Darren Oliver, Sergio Santos, Aaron Loup, Brad Lincoln, and Neil Wagner. The game will be notable as both Santos and Colby Rasmus are expected to return from their respective maladies.