Tomorrow marks the unofficial start of baseball season for the Jays as they take on the Phillies in Dunedin at 1:00 pm, with the game airing on Sportsnet 1. Eric Lauer is set to start, but there’s an intriguing subplot brewing around his role on the team.
Lauer shared with Gregor Chisholm that he was led to believe he’d secure a spot in the starting rotation this season. However, with the recent additions of Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce, that spot is now uncertain.
"It is a little frustrating," Lauer admitted. Despite the competition, he remains optimistic about his ability to contribute, saying, "I think I’m still in a great spot to produce."
Lauer’s situation is a classic case of team dynamics at play. His performance last year was stellar, typically warranting a guaranteed spot.
Yet, the team’s decision to bolster their pitching staff is a strategic move to enhance their overall competitiveness. While this depth is advantageous for the team, it puts Lauer in a challenging position.
If he begins the season in the bullpen, transitioning back to a starter role could prove difficult. A trade request might be an option if he’s committed to starting, but leaving a World Series contender is no small decision.
Lauer’s contract status adds another layer to this narrative. As a free agent after the season, his role could significantly impact his market value. Consistent starts could lead to a lucrative deal, whereas a long-relief role might not.
In other Jays news, Kevin Gausman is contemplating retirement after the season, though his performance might attract offers too tempting to pass up. Meanwhile, Shane Bieber is progressing faster than expected, already throwing at 120 feet. While there’s no rush to push him back onto the mound, his recovery is promising.
Ricky Tiedeman is also making strides, feeling ready to contribute after throwing two simulated innings.
It’s an exciting time for Jays fans as the season kicks off. Happy Friday!