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The Toronto Blue Jays and their fans have high expectations for 2023. The early signs of trouble in the pitching rotation are nerve-wracking. The latest reported issue comes from struggling starter Yusei Kikuchi. Kikuchi is two years removed from an All-Star selection, but has struggled mightily since then. He is currently picking up where he left off in Spring Training.
Kikuchi pitched for an ERA of 5.19 and had a WAR of -1.1 in 2022. For a team with World Series aspirations, this is not good enough. He may be towards the end of their rotation, but the Toronto Blue Jays still need production from that spot. To win it all, the team needs to be complete, and this stokes fears that they aren't there yet.
Scott Mitchell of TSN shared a report of Kikuchi's wild pitch via Twitter.
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While mistakes like this are common enough, especially during spring training, it is an uncomfortable reminder for Blue Jays fans. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, and Bo Bichette, they believe the team has the tools to win it all. They may have to get past the New York Yankees and Houston Astros, but they have the talent needed. However, the chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
The Toronto Blue Jays have assembled a talented pitching staff that does help lighten some of these concerns. Alek Manaoah and Jordan Romano are two of the best at their positions, as a starter and closer, respectively. The extensive MLB season will always reveal a team's flaws and make them pay for them.
Yusei Kikuchi could stun the baseball world and return to an All-Star form, but it is an uphill battle. His career ERA of 5.02 does not inspire confidence. If he is able to get close to an All-Star level, fans will be surprised and delighted.
Pitching has never been more important in baseball than it is right now, and every championship team is looking to improve in that position.
What would make 2023 a successful season for the Toronto Blue Jays?
Going into the season with a championship as their goal can have a huge effect on a team's fan base. They expect such great things that falling short of being the very best is seen as a failure. This is not always the case.
If the Blue Jays can show growth across the board and go on a deep playoff run, the season could be considered successful.
