Blue Jays Baseball: Is this a new brand?

Sep 2, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) slides in safely to second base with a double as the ball eludes Cleveland Indians second baseman

Jason Kipnis

(22) in the fourth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Exhibit B: Donaldson shows that it’s all about that base.

As if tagging on a shallow pop up weren’t enough, Donaldson takes it to another level in the very same game. His team was up 5-1 against the Cleveland Indians. He’d already made one of the better highlights of the Blue Jays’ season. But, knowing the game is still early (4th inning) and knowing no other way to play the game, Donaldson read the outfield perfectly. It was a great example of taking what the other team gives you.

Toronto Blue Jays

He made a hard turn around first and watched the less than aggressive throw come in. ‘Well, heck, if they’re going to give it to me…’. an extra base can be the difference in some games. In the playoffs, one play here or there can mean the difference between winning and losing. The score should not dictate how you play. Donaldson’s play is another example of the type of play needed to win.

Winning baseball requires hustle. It requires players to go full on, always looking for that extra base. Too many times in the past, we’ve seen the Blue Jays lack aggression or hustle. We’ve lost count of how many guys do not bust it down the line to first base. Guys have been content with a single out of the very same type of hit that Donaldson turned into a double.

that’s the kind of hustle and effort that creates an exciting brand of baseball. It leads to winning, but it creates an entertaining, exciting product to watch.

Next: Exhibit C: Go-Go Gadget Glove