Toronto Blue Jay, Yusei Kikuchi
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Blue Jay Pitchers are holding each other accountable for bad starts.

Published April 11, 2024 at 6:45 PM
BY MAVERICK MITCHELL
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The Blue Jays have methodically assembled their veteran starting rotation in Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, Chris Bassitt, and Yusei Kikuchi. It seems that with rough offensive production, a shining light to the Jays is Yusei Kikuchi. Kikuchi's impressive performance suggests a resurgence for the Blue Jays' rotation.

Kikuchi's stellar start signals return to form for rotation


It seems that the chemistry between the starting 5 is a combination of competitiveness, tough love and high standards. They push each other to excel while also maintaining a supportive atmosphere where they expect the best from each other. This camaraderie isn't always seen in the big leagues, but with all four pitchers comfortable in their roles, it's effortless for them.


"They feed off one another. I think Chris (Bassitt) really takes the lead with that." - John Schneider

Wednesday's series-ending 6-1 loss was disappointing, especially with Tim Mayza struggling on the mound in extra innings. However, Kikuchi delivered an outstanding performance, pitching six innings only giving up 1-run in the process. He seems to have found a home here in Toronto.

It seems that the core group of pitchers are taking massive accountability for their own performances as well. when asked about the start of the season, Chris Bassitt said this:

"I'll be honest with you, I'm pretty disappointed in our starters so far. This is my third start and two of my starts were terrible, in my opinion, so I'm no help to the problem. The biggest thing for us is getting our starters going. I'm so confident in the guys we have, it's just that the first 10 or 11 games have been pretty rough for us, outside of Berríos." - Bassitt

After this comment from Bassitt, it's nice to see Yusei Kikuchi have a stellar game against the Seattle mariners on Wednesday. Maybe this type of team chemistry and competitiveness is what the Jays need to get some deep starts from their Pitchers.

Source: MLB - Kikuchi's stellar start signals return to form for rotation
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Blue Jay Pitchers are holding each other accountable for bad starts.

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