Blue Jays Quick Hits: Stroman, Happ and Hernandez

Blue Jays news and notes from June 7-8th, including injury updates from Marcus Stroman and a recent rumor floating around the WebSphere.

Stroman Tosses a Trio

According to Sportsnet’s Mike Wilner on Twitter, young hurler Marcus Stroman tossed three innings in a simulated game in extended spring training Friday. Wilner also noted that following the shortened outing, Stroman would be further evaluated by staff. Stroman went on the disabled list on May 11th.

Prior to being shelved with right shoulder fatigue, Stroman struggled heavily, pitching to an abysmal 7.71 ERA over 37.1 innings, striking out 32 and walking 18. Hopefully, this rehab stint will provide Stroman with a chance to get things back on track.

Happ on the Block?

A recent article by Jon Heyman of FRS Baseball proposed J.A. Happ as a potential trade candidate this July. The column, which can be found here, takes a quick look at Happ in comparison to other “name brand” starters that could also find new homes during the season.

While it’s not exactly a groundbreaking idea, Heyman possesses a certain industry wisdom that could lead us to believe that his writing is a little more than speculation. If the Jays do decide to sell off some rental pieces, you can be sure that J.A. Happ will be one of the first to go.

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Hernandez Moves to Left

John Gibbons told reporters Thursday that Teoscar Hernandez will likely see a lot of time in left field in the coming months, going on to note that’s probably his future position. Hernandez, who has struggled defensively in right field so far, will try and get his defensive game on track on the other side of the diamond.

In the same media availability, Gibby said that veteran Curtis Granderson can play both left and right, and will probably flip-flop between the two now that Randal Grichuk has returned.

Diaz Comes in Clutch

Despite only slashing .216/.269/.408 on the season, shortstop Aledmys Diaz notched a big walk-off base hit to win Thursday night’s series opener against the Baltimore Orioles.

Since returning from the disabled list, Diaz has gone 5-for-23 with three strikeouts and two doubles, scoring three runs and walking once. He has appeared in six games and has totaled a 0.100 WPA.

Next: Blue Jays: Sam Gaviglio has earned his spot