Reidier Gonzalez Strong in LV Win

Las Vegas SP Reidier Gonzalez, a pitcher the Jays have very high hopes for this season, kicked the year off on the right foot yesterday, as he went 6 innings strong with no walks, 2 ER, 5 Ks, and 5 hits allowed for his first win of 2010. LV won 7-3 over Salt Lake for a 2-0 start. Josh Roenicke followed up his effort with 2 perfect innings with no hits allowed, no walks and 2 Ks. Jesse Carlson threw the 9th and got through it with only 1 hit allowed.

The offensive force for Las Vegas was very well spread out as 8 of the 9 hitters had hits, and 5 of those had multiple hits (Figueroa, Dopirak, Reed, Arencibia, and Lubanski). However, it was Arencibia that led the way in driving in runs with 3 to his credit, while Dopirak chipped in by driving in 2.

This start to the year is indicative of the fact that the Jays have a very strong club in Las Vegas and will be able to benefit from their talents when injuries strike. If JP Arencibia continues his strong start, there’s a very real chance we’ll see his power bat in Toronto by August. Reidier Gonzalez, meanwhile, has the unfortunate task of getting through more guys mid-season (McGowan, Litsch, Cecil, Drabek) to get any opportunity to get a shot in the lineup – never mind the fact that all Jays starters have looked good enough to keep their roles (Morrow should be better from here on out). Still, he could get a shot if injury or trades occur.