Blue Jays Spring Training News and Notes: Vladdy, Dolis, Pearson and more

A look at some of the Toronto Blue Jays spring training news and notes includes updates on Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Rafael Dolis, Nate Pearson and more.

Better Late Than Never

The majority of the Blue Jays players were late to their Grapefruit League game versus the Boston Red Sox yesterday due to an overnight shooting on the I-75 freeway. Two hours before game time, Charlie Montoyo and Travis Shaw were the only two on the field playing catch.

The team bus eventually arrived in time for the game, however, the Jays lost the contest 5-2.

Vladdy Crisis Averted

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had quite the day yesterday battling the wind on both offense and defence. Vladdy made a diving web gem while battling the wind at third base, he then crushed a ball that he thought was a home run off the bat.

The wind-assisted ball stayed in the ballpark and Guerrero was thrown out sliding awkwardly into second base. He would leave the game after the play although it was reportedly not injury-related and just a normal spring substitution.

More from Toronto Blue Jays News

• Blue Jays: Alek Manoah on pace to succeed in possible postseason
• Blue Jays: Bradley Zimmer has carved himself a valuable role
• Anthony Bass has been the shutdown reliever the Blue Jays needed
• Blue Jays: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. open to a long-term contract
• Blue Jays: Snapping cold streaks at the right time

Dolis Out Following Surgery

Reliever Rafael Dolis will be shut down for at least a week after having his appendix removed on Tuesday. The 32-year old had tossed two scoreless innings of relief thus far up to this point. The minor surgery should not affect his chances of making the squad out of camp.

Pearson Overmatches Opposition Once Again

Nate Pearson was dominant once again versus the Red Sox yesterday, the flamethrower pitched two scoreless innings of relief striking out three although he did have back-to-back walks. The 23-year old has now struck out nine batters in five innings of work without allowing a run in three appearances this spring.

A Spring Not Worth Remembering

T.J. Zeuch has not gotten off the spring training start he had anticipated as he battles for a spot on the roster. Zeuch has been decimated in three appearances allowing seven earned on five homers in 4.1 innings of work.

The 24-year old showed some promise in five appearances with the big club last season, however, he will undoubtedly begin the season in Triple-A Buffalo.

Today’s Game

The Blue Jays play host to the Philadelphia Phillies today at TD Ballpark in Dunedin. Matt Shoemaker will toe the rubber for his second appearance of the spring for the good guys.