3 worrisome truths about the 2024 Blue Jays that should have fans fuming

Defense is not the solution

Not everything about the Blue Jays has regressed over the past couple seasons. The Blue Jays defense has not only been vastly improved from previous years, but it has emerged as one of the best in all of baseball. Since 2023, the Blue Jays have 162 DRS (Defensive Runs Saved), which is 1st in all of MLB. The FO has emphasized a need to improve the defense, but has it equated to an improved team?

Despite leading MLB in DRS and UZR in 2024, the Blue Jays still possessed a 4.29 ERA, which was 8th worst in baseball. The real issue stems from the fact that 208 home runs were hit off of the Blue Jays, while only hitting 156 of their own. That's a -52 home run difference, with the only team with a lower differential being the White Sox (-68).

With such an alarming rate at giving up home runs, while not scoring enough of their own, the defense is insufficient, not being given enough of an opportunity to even make a difference. Without offensive support to alleviate the pressure, the team’s defensive strengths are overshadowed, putting them at a constant disadvantage and ultimately compromising their chances to stay competitive in games.

A good defense is a good thing to have. Daulton Varsho is still one of the best defenders in all of baseball, Alejandro Kirk has emerged as one of the leagues finest defensive catchers, and the Jays still have a plethora of good defensive infielders at their disposal in Ernie Clement, Leo Jimenez, and Will Wagner. However whether that defense is once again the best in the majors, or moves down to "just good" will not be the reason for their success or failure next season.