Jays have built a playoff bullpen
BY THOMAS HORN - FAN FUEL BLOGGER
In an offseason that was undoubtedly full of high expectations, the Toronto Blue Jays once again refrained from spending money. As much as Jays fans would have loved to see players like Yu Darvish and Prince Fielder wearing the blue, white, and red, the Jays front office executives have a different idea in mind.
This offseason, though not as exciting as many would have hoped, was definitely successful. In fact, Alex Anthopoulos may have bought the Jays the opportunity to be playing meaningful baseball in September.
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A particular need for the Blue Jays was the bullpen. Toronto’s 2011 staff posted a 3.88 ERA, while finishing third in the Majors in blown saves with 25. With the signing of Francisco Cordero finalized, and with the acquisitions of Sergio Santos, Darren Oliver, and fan favourite Jason Frasor, Toronto finds itself with one of the better bullpens in the American League.
Based on stats from last year, the current Blue Jays bullpen would boast a 3.30 ERA which would have ranked second in the American League behind the New York Yankees. More importantly however, the current group was far more consistent. In 2011, Blue Jays relievers gave away 16 wins (25 blown saves with a record of 9-16 in those games).
If the bullpen is improved enough to preserve even just eight more wins instead of 16, then the Blue Jays would have finished with an 89-win season in 2011. If Bud Selig adds another wild card spot, then this improved bullpen could make the difference in whether Toronto is in the thick of a playoff race come September.
Yes, things change from year-to-year, but the strengthening of a sub-par bullpen should do wonders for the Blue Jays. By finishing games, the Jays gain confidence, and confidence can go a long way for a team with such a young core. Not only that, but a stronger bullpen takes pressure off the starting rotation, which can easily be classified as the weakest component of the Blue Jays moving forward.
Who knows Jays fans, maybe they have more of a shot at greatness then we think. It should be an interesting year.
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