The Toronto Blue Jays lost their second consecutive Grapefruit League game yesterday versus the Baltimore Orioles, here is a look at some of the news and notes surrounding the contest and today’s game versus the Yankees.
The Jays lost a barnburner 9-8 yesterday, however, there were many positives that could be taken from the contest including an impressive performance on both sides of the field from Dalton Pompey.
Pompey Has Himself A Day
The out of options outfielder went 2-3 with his first homer of the spring, he also chipped in a stolen base and an outfield assist in a losing effort. Pompey swiped third base showcasing his game-changing speed for his new skipper.
Pompey essentially needs to make the team out of spring training or else could see himself playing for a new team in the very near future.
Dalton Pompey made sure our 1st home run of 2019 was CRUSHED! #SpringTraining pic.twitter.com/6Iz70jPhbF
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) February 25, 2019
McKinney And Tellez Chip In Two Hits
More from Toronto Blue Jays News
- Matt Chapman has been exactly what the Blue Jays needed
- Blue Jays: The goalposts are moving in the right direction
- Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays advance to the Championship Series
- Blue Jays: Comparisons for Alek Manoah’s Second Season
- Blue Jays: Adam Cimber, the unlikely decision King
Both Billy McKinney and Rowdy Tellez each chipped in two singles apiece during the contest. Both rookies are vying for a roster spot with the big club although both players still have minor league options.
Rookies Roughed Up
Three rookie pitchers attempting to impress were roughed up yesterday on the bump. Sean Reid-Foley was touched up for three earned runs in two innings of work. Rio Ruiz also took the hurler deep in the first inning staking the Orioles to an early lead.
Trent Thornton who was acquired in the Aledmys Diaz swap also surrendered three runs in two innings of work. Patrick Murphy followed suit allowing three runs of his own in a single inning of work.
McKinney To Start At First Base
McKinney will get the start at first base today versus the New York Yankees, the new manager is putting an emphasis on defensive flexibility with a number of players this spring. The outfielder played six games last season at first base in the minors including four games while a member of the Bisons, he also saw an inning there with the Jays during his call-up.
Stroman Gets Start
Marcus Stroman will get his first start of the spring today opposite Canadian James Paxton at George Steinbrenner Field. The game will be televised as Sportsnet picks up the YES feed.