Blue Jays' Opening Day Icons: A Look at the Lineup Legends
As the Toronto Blue Jays kick off another season, it's a perfect time to delve into the history of their Opening Day lineups. Over the years, several players have become synonymous with this special day, etching their names into the franchise's lore.
Topping the list of Opening Day stalwarts are Ernie Whitt, Lloyd Moseby, and Vernon Wells, each boasting nine starts. Whitt was a fixture behind the plate from 1980 to 1989, while Wells held down center field from 2002 to 2010. Moseby, known for his versatility, made eight starts in center and one in left field during his tenure from 1981 to 1989.
Let's break down the Blue Jays' Opening Day regulars by position:
Pitcher:
- Roy Halladay leads with seven starts, a testament to his dominance on the mound.
- Dave Stieb follows with four, while Jimmy Key and Jose Berrios each have three.
Catcher:
- Ernie Whitt's nine starts set the standard.
- Darrin Fletcher and Russell Martin were also mainstays, with five and four starts respectively.
First Base:
- Carlos Delgado's seven appearances highlight his impact.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Willie Upshaw each have six starts, showcasing their importance to the team.
Second Base:
- Damaso Garcia leads with seven starts, while Aaron Hill made six appearances.
Shortstop:
- Alex Gonzalez tops the list with eight starts, closely followed by Alfredo Griffin, Tony Fernandez, and Bo Bichette with six each.
Third Base:
- Rance Mulliniks' seven starts underscore his reliability at the hot corner.
- Ed Sprague and Josh Donaldson also made significant contributions with six and four starts, respectively.
Left Field:
- George Bell and Shannon Stewart each made six Opening Day starts, becoming fixtures in left field.
Centre Field:
- Vernon Wells and Lloyd Moseby are the leaders here, with Wells making nine starts and Moseby eight.
Right Field:
- Jesse Barfield and Jose Bautista each boast eight Opening Day starts, reflecting their prowess in right field.
Designated Hitter:
- Otto Velez, Paul Molitor, and Rowdy Tellez each made three starts, bringing power to the lineup.
These players not only made their mark on Opening Day but also played pivotal roles in the team's history. As the Blue Jays embark on a new season, these legends serve as a reminder of the franchise's rich past and the promise of future triumphs.