Blue Jays Baseball: Is this a new brand?

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Sep 2, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Troy Tulowitzki (2) hits a single against Cleveland Indiians in the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. The Jays won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Exhibit D: Tulo’s Hop

There is no doubt that, as a Blue Jay, Troy tulowitzki has not really lived up to the offensive force he has been for his career. Moving him down in the lineup is an attempt to get him back to form. He’ll come around. We shouldn’t be worried.

Toronto Blue Jays /

Toronto Blue Jays

But, even when struggling, a player can do little things to help his team win. Take the above example for instance. Initially, it seemed like another innocent ground out. But, the defense threw it away and Tulo ended up safe. Over running the bag and turning toward second could have cost him. But, he kept his head and managed to get back to the bag. Now, he very well could have conceded the running error and been tagged out.

Instead, he was not going to give up. He hustled back to the base and took what was given to him. His leap over Matt Wieters allowed him to be safe and keep the inning going. It was an extra effort that resulted in an advantage for his team. Once he made contact, we all assumed it would be an out. Instead, his quick thinking and determination led to a runner on first. It wasn’t how you’d draw it up, but it worked.

This kind of play is what the Blue Jays have been missing for years. For too long, we’ve watched Canada’s only team jog to first, let balls fall in, play safe, less aggressive baseball. And, when chances were taken, they led to senseless errors and gaffes that could cost a team. Now, we’re seeing aggressive, heads up baseball that is not only leading to winning, but it s creating an exciting product on the field. It’s the in game excitement that will keep fans coming back.

Next: Blue Jays Will Need to Make a Decision About Marcus Stroman

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