2014 Toronto Blue Jays Opening Day 2014: 5 Reasons to Be Excited

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Mar 19, 2014; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Ryan Goins (17) throws to first base during the fourth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Florida Auto Exchange Park. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

4) Improved Defense– Last season’s terrible start was caused by really bad defense. There wasn’t much improvement throughout the year as the Blue Jays tried to use patchwork ideas to stop the insanity. It wasn’t until Ryan Goins came up to play second base that the infield seemed to perform respectably. Goins will not hit a ton (he hit .177 this spring), but that is not why he is the starting second baseman. He brings solid defense. Some may question whether he can perform at a high level for a full season considering he only played 34 games last season. The response is simple: if he doesn’t, there are players ready to take his spot. Players like Maicer Izturis. So…um…yeah…Go Goins! As well, with a healthy squad, the Blue Jays over all defense is much improved. Melky Cabrera can actually run after a ball in left. Brett Lawrie will be on the field to drop jaws on a regular basis. He’s got a Gold Glove coming his way. Did we mention that the Blue jays also added on defense at the catcher position with Dioner Navarro? Watching the Jays field the ball may actually be a treat this season. That would be a welcome change.