The Toronto Blue Jays have been searching for Max Scherzer's replacement for quite some time now and it looks like they have finally found him in Eric Lauer.
Scherzer's recovery has been taking much longer than expected but many believe that he is finally making his way back into the lineup as he has continued to progress in his rehab.
The Blue Jays have finally found Max Scherzer's replacement in Eric Lauer
The Blue Jays have been trying to find someone to put in the fifth starting rotation spot for some time now, it was believed that Easton Lucas was the man for the job after a hot start but he unfortunately cooled down and was sent back to Buffalo.
Since being called up, has been mostly used as a relief pitcher but in his two starts in May he has shown some promise even if against the Rays he gave up 3 runs over 4.2 innings.
In his first official start against the Detroit Tigers (May 17th), he struck out five batters and only gave up one run (a home run by Spencer Torkelson). While that was only three innings, he was able to weather a top-five team in offence to just three hits across 40 pitches. -Spagunolo
His last start against the Rays was a bit of a mixed bag, as he went 4 1/3 innings against Tampa, giving up three runs (both home runs), six hits, two walks, and striking out just two batters. -Spagunolo
While these are not phenomenal numbers by any means, it at least give the Blue Jays something to work with because they cannot keep going with only four starting pitchers.
If the Blue Jays are able to get Scherzer back soon, Lauer can still be very solid for them out of the bullpen and will always be there in case another injury takes place in the starting rotation.
In 16.1 innings pitched for the Blue Jays this season, Lauer has managed a 3.31 ERA with 16 strikeouts and a 1-1 record to go along with a 1.10 WHIP which is not bad for a temporary fix.
The solid numbers Lauer has put up has definitely put him as the Blue Jays top option to replace Scherzer for now but at the same time they do not really have anyone to look at.
Source: Blue Jays Nation
Has Eric Lauer earned a temporary spot in the Blue Jays rotation?
Is Eric Lauer a solid replacement for Max Scherzer?
