Yariel Rodriguez, a pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, has encountered back problems that have hindered his progress in camp. However, reports suggest that he is now poised to make his first appearance in spring training. Additionally, the team has outlined its strategy for managing Rodriguez for the remainder of the spring.
According to Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet on social media, Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Yariel Rodriguez is expected to make his spring training debut this weekend. The Blue Jays were satisfied with Rodriguez’s performance during a two-inning live batting practice session on Tuesday. He is currently slated to pitch two innings on Sunday against the Twins in Dunedin. The team’s plan is to gradually increase Rodriguez’s workload to five innings by the conclusion of spring training camp.
This development is positive for the team, especially considering Rodriguez’s recent five-year contract signing during the offseason. Earlier in camp, he faced setbacks due to back spasms. Although the Toronto Blue Jays’ specific strategy for Rodriguez is still uncertain, there appear to be several possibilities. Given the goal of getting him to five innings by the conclusion of spring training, he could potentially be considered for the fifth starting pitcher position, particularly given the injury concerns surrounding Alek Manoah.
Additionally, there’s the option of sending him to Triple-A to develop further as a starter and gradually increase his pitch count. Alternatively, the team might view him as a versatile player who could serve as a swing man, capable of pitching both in the bullpen and as a starter at the beginning of the major league season.
Heading into camp, it appeared that Jose Berrios, Kevin Gausman, Yusei Kikuchi, Chris Bassitt, and Manoah had secured spots in the starting rotation. However, with Manoah’s injury, the situation has become more uncertain.
Last season, Toronto placed third in the American League East and made it to the playoffs, where they were defeated by the Minnesota Twins in the wild card round.