Blue Jays: How has Ryan Borucki not earned his spot?

Toronto Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins revealed yesterday that Ryan Borucki is not a lock for the rotation and will be competing for a spot in the starting five.

Did Ross Atkins totally block out last season? Remember 2018, the season where rookie Ryan Borucki leads the Blue Jays staff with the lowest earned run average of any starter.

So let me get this straight, Clayton Richard and his 5.56 earned run average is automatically guaranteed a spot in the rotation over Borucki and his 3.87 earned run average. Hmmmmm.

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It’s the first day of camp, Ross. Why not just let Borucki enjoy the fruits of last seasons labor and come into camp with some reassurance that he has is tabbed as a starter. He went 4-6 with a 3.87 earned run average and a 1.7 WAR in 17 starts on a lackluster club in his rookie campaign. I think he earned at least that.

Prior to his call-up last season, Borucki made 13 starts for Triple-A Buffalo going 6-5 with a 3.27 earned run average and a 1.169 WHIP in 77 innings of work with the Bisons. Borucki has nothing left to prove in the minors.

Obviously, you can subtract J.A. Happ from the above table and add Matt Shoemaker (4.94 ERA) and Clayton Richard (5.56 ERA) into the equation. Shoemaker, if healthy deserves to be in the rotation and could provide some upside in 2019.

Am I wrong here? I am all for motivating the kids but why don’t you focus that on Aaron Sanchez or Marcus Stroman who both underperformed for various reasons. Why not tell Richard, he needs to outperform Sean Reid-Foley and Sam Gaviglio to earn a spot in the rotation.

Regardless of what Atkins says to the media on day one of camp, Borucki will be in his rightful place in the rotation come opening day. Let the kids pitch, Ross.