ALEast_Toronto Blue Jays

2014 Arizona Gameday HQ

Toronto Blue Jays 5-YEAR SCORECARD 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 WINS 74 73 81 77 87 RUNS PER GAME 4.39 4.41 4.58 4.66 4.92 RUNS ALLOWED PER GAME 4.66 4.83 4.69 4.49 4.75 OPENING-DAY PAYROLL (millions) $119 $83 $70 $78 $80 2014 STRENGTHS: • Strong starting pitching • Ability to create runs 2014 WEAKNESSES: • Depleted farm system • Defense is shaky in the outfield Despite big expectations, the Toronto Blue Jays limped to a 74-88 record last season. Jose Bautista smacked 54 home runs in 2010 and 43 in ’11 but dropped to 27 in ’12 and 28 last season. For the Blue Jays to take a step forward, they’ll need more production from their power hitter. The Blue Jays also face the tall task of competing in the ultra-tough AL East. There won’t be any easy divisional games. If Bautista can find his old form and R.A. Dickey can lead the pitching staff, the Blue Jays have a shot. Yet they’ll need everything to go right. And that certainly is a lot to ask with so many good teams in their division. HITTING The Blue Jays need another big season from Bautista if they plan on contending. Just as important is a breakout season from Jose Reyes. He played in only 93 games last season because of injuries. When healthy, Reyes is a key component at the top of the Blue Jays’ lineup. Reyes hit .296 with 10 home runs, 37 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. Put that production through a full 162 games and you have a big-time leadoff hitter. Edwin Encarnacion is also a wild card; if he’s on track, it could give the Blue Jays a major lift. Encarnacion had 144 hits in 142 games last season. If you’re counting, that’s more than one per game. The Blue Jays’ bench is suspect, so for them to have success, the starting lineup must produce. JIM MCISAAC/GETTY IMAGES SPORT Jose Bautista AL EAST


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