"The first part of the plan worked to perfection as Miles was magnificent over three innings. He allowed just two hits, while getting two strikeouts over three innings, without walking a hitter. He threw 38 effective pitches, which included a three-pitch strikeout of future Hall of Famer Mike Trout in the first inning."
"The Blue Jays, whose offence was being effectively shut down by José Soriano, were clinging on to a 1-0 lead, that promptly turned into a 4-1 deficit after Lauer entered in the top of the fifth. Lauer gave up a leadoff walk, followed by a two-run home run. He ended his day with five innings pitched, five hits, six earned runs, three home runs allowed, two walks and four strikeouts."
"It feels right now like the Blue Jays are caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to using Lauer. While the team absolutely needs to hit more consistently, it felt like the game was effectively over after Lauer gave up those four runs. While he shouldn't shoulder the entire blame for this loss, there are players around him that are showing better in their opportunities."
"Just like the Blue Jays pulled the trigger on their position shuffle at the back of the bullpen, they may need to make a similar shuffle with the number five starters role. Lauer may have run out of rope with his hold on the number five spot in the Blue Jays rotation."
Spencer Miles was used as an opener against the LA Angels and delivered three strong innings, allowing two hits with two strikeouts and no walks on 38 pitches, including a strikeout of Mike Trout. The Blue Jays’ offense struggled against José Soriano and held a 1-0 lead. In the fifth inning, Eric Lauer entered as a bulk reliever and the lead flipped quickly: he allowed a leadoff walk and then a two-run home run, ultimately giving up five innings with five hits, six earned runs, three home runs, two walks, and four strikeouts. The loss raised questions about Lauer’s role in the rotation and whether another shuffle is needed, similar to the bullpen committee approach.
Read at Jays Journal
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