Stroman’s struggles continue in Blue Jays loss to Orioles

The Blue Jays will welcome tomorrow’s off-day. Marcus Stroman couldn’t make it out of the fourth inning on Sunday afternoon as Toronto fell 11-6 to the Baltimore Orioles in their series finale.Toronto was out-hit 19-7.

Stroman was absolutely rocked by the Orioles. The young right-hander allowed seven earned runs on 10 hits in just three and two-thirds innings, continuing an ugly stretch of starts. While he didn’t walk a batter, Stroman forced just three ground ball outs which is typically his greatest strength.

He found the Orioles bats quickly, allowing three runs on four hits in the bottom of the first inning including a two-run home run off the bat of Matt Wieters. The early damage could have been been even greater if not for a double-play turned by Barney and Travis.

Manager John Gibbons first turned to Joe Biagini hoping for some length out of his bullpen, but Biagini managed just one out while surrendering four hits and a run. After two scoreless frames from Gavin Floyd and a short blip from Chad Girodo (0.0 IP, 1 ER), Jesse Chavez and Drew Storen pitched an inning each on the back end. Storen loaded the bases, but managed to escape the jam with a strikeout of Schoop.

At the plate, Devon Travis and Troy Tulowitzki got the Blue Jays started with a pair of two-run home runs in the top of the second. Travis also added a pair of doubles and a walk, driving in three runners and exercising a great approach at the plate. If that continues, Travis could soon put himself into the conversation for leadoff duties.

The Blue Jays have Monday off before the Arizona Diamondbacks arrive for a quick two-game set on Tuesday and Wednesday. Marco Estrada and J.A. Happ are scheduled to pitch before another off-day on Thursday.