5 Reasons the Blue Jays Will Win ALDS Game 5

Oct 9, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Marcus Stroman (6) throws a pitch against the Texas Rangers in the first inning in game two of the ALDS at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

The Stro-Show

Toronto Blue Jays

Marcus Stroman resilience and dedication got him back to the season when no one thought he would. Once he arrived in the lineup he immediately made an impact, to the tune of a 5-0 record with an ERA of 1.67 in 27 innings of work. While he had a bit of a hiccup on Friday night, he still managed to go 7 innings letting up only 3 earned runs, and was in line for the win until the bullpen coughed up the lead.

Marcus Stroman hasn’t pitched against slouches either. His first appearance came in the Bronx against the Evil Empire, and he let up 3 runs over 5 innings as the Jays ended up winning it 10-7. During his five starts this season, the Blue Jays won those starts with a combined score of 35-10. His first outing was the only outing in which Stroman didn’t go at least 7 innings.

With multiple weapons in his arsenal, including a devastating curveball, (a pitch the Rangers are not good at hitting), the focus should not be on whether Stroman can outduel Hamels, but if Hamels can outduel Stroman. Stroman has the electric stuff that has made him a bona fide Ace. The question today will not be whether he can support his team, but whether his team can support him like they have all season. His story is not over, nor is the Blue Jays.

Next: The Blue Jays are on an Historic Run