Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Jeff Hoffman blowing a save is a loud wake-up call that creates the perfect chance for the bullpen to find its ultimate form.
Baseball in late March is all about shaking off the winter rust and establishing a new rhythm.
Giving up a late home run to the Athletics definitely stings the passionate crowd at Rogers Centre.
The veteran right-handed pitcher surrendered a loud solo shot to Shea Langeliers in the ninth inning.
It was a rocky start that immediately sparked debates across the entire fanbase.
But a single blown save in the opening week should never force anyone to push the panic button.
Hoffman currently holds a 1-0 record and a 9.00 ERA after escaping his first outing with a team victory.
Hoffman needs to channel his elite October magic
We are all absolutely desperate to see him dominating the ninth inning just like he did against Seattle in the ALCS.
We have to remember the absolute fire he brought to the mound during our magical run last fall.
He racked up 33 saves and an impressive 84 strikeouts last season, proving he has premium stuff.
Those numbers confirm that his upper-90s fastball is a legitimate weapon when his location is dialed in.
Yes, his 4.37 ERA last year showed some frustrating inconsistency that kept everyone on edge.
The front office understands that building a championship roster requires extreme patience with power arms.
Ross Atkins specifically designed a deep relief corps to absorb these temporary hurdles.
Having guys like Louis Varland waiting in the wings takes the heavy burden off a single pitcher.
Internal competition is exactly what drives a talented pitching staff to reach another level of greatness.
If Yimi Garcia returns fully healthy, the late innings will become an absolute fortress for Toronto.
A little early adversity will naturally force the entire group to sharpen their focus right away.
Hoffman possesses the raw physical tools and the mental toughness to bounce back from a bad night.
We know he wants the ball when the game is on the line and Vladdy has given them the lead.
This minor setback is just the first chapter in what will be an incredible comeback story.
We are ready to watch him find his groove and secure those massive late inning victories again.
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| POLL | ||
MARS 28|339 ANSWERS Jeff Hoffman draws heavy criticism after rough season debut Do you believe Jeff Hoffman will bounce back and keep the primary closer role this season? | ||
| Yes | 157 | 46.3 % |
| No | 182 | 53.7 % |
| List of polls | ||