30 Teams in 30 Days: Toronto Blue Jays(Part 2 of 2)

Sorry for the delay on the last 2 parts of the series.Better late than never though,right? Here are the previews for the pitchers. 5 starters and 8 relievers... As always, the author of each segment is under the player name.

R.A. Dickey-RHP-38 Years Old

By: Isaac Boloten

2012 Stats:233.2 IP,  20-6 W-L, 3.27 FIP, 24.8 K%,  5.8 BB%,  46.1 GB%

2012 WAR: 5.7 rWAR. 4.6 fWAR. 5.3 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

2012 was nothing short of a dream season for the 38 year old knuckleballer.  Despite statistically not being the best pitcher in the NL, he won the Cy Young and deservedly so.  At a point in the season, Dickey was the talk of baseball,  putting together an incredible stretch of games that included back to back 1 hit shut outs versus the Rays and Orioles.  He led major league baseball in strikeouts.

2013 Season Preview

Dickey is expected to be the ace of this loaded staff put together by AA this off-season.  Many have questioned Dickey's ability to keep up the brilliance of 2012, however what those people may be overlooking, is that Dickey was also brilliant in 2010, and 2011.  This means that the risk isn't as much as some are making it out to be.  While Dickey may not post a season as spectacular as 2012 was, there really is no reason to expect major regression from R.A., considering a knuckleball doesn't put too much strain on his arm. One other aspect to consider is how pitching in the dome for half his starts will impact Dickey’s knuckleball.  The controlled environment could lead to even more movement from his already incredible dancer.  While there is some dispute as to whether this effect is real, it’s at least something to keep an eye on.

2013 Projected Role

Staff ace, and will be looked upon to provide veteran leadership.

2013 PECOTA Projection

231 IP, 14-15 W-L, 4.30 ERA, 6.3 K/9, 2.7 BB/9, 50.0 GB%.

Brandon Morrow-RHP-28 years old

By: Isaac Boloten

2012 Stat Line:124.2 IP,  10-7 W-L, 3.65 FIP, 21.4 K%,  8.1 BB%,  41.1 GB%.

2012 WAR: 3.2 rWAR. 2.4 fWAR. 2.0 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

2012 was a terrific year for the fireballing right hander.While Morrow had shown flashes of brilliance in the past, what separated Morrow's 2012 from his other years, is that he learned how to pitch, rather than just throw.  His strikeout numbers did decrease, but along with that came improvements with his control, and an increase in his ground ball rate.  Many were talking about Morrow possibly entering the Cy Young conversation before he injured his oblique in June.  Prior to the injury, Morrow had already recorded 3 shutouts and was absolutely cruising.  When he came back from his injury he was quite shaky, but he regained his form in September and once again became one of the best pitchers in the American League. 

2013 Season Preview

Morrow will make his 2013 debut this Wednesday as the #2 starter in the rotation.  Many people are picking Morrow to finally break out, as he likely would have done if not for the injuries in 2012.  However, Morrow doesn't need to break out in order for his 2013 to be a success.  If he comes close to posting his 2012 numbers (except for innings pitched), that could be considered a very successful season.  That's what made Alex Anthopoulos’ offseason moves so great.  The pressure isn’t on one specific player, and if everyone just lives up to their potential then the team will be in the playoff hunt come September. If I were to bet on anybody having a good year this season, it'd be Morrow.

2013 Projected Role

Morrow will act as the #2 starting pitcher,  behind R.A. Dickey.  Some expect Morrow to see improvement due to the fact that there is a knuckleballer in front of him.  It certainly won't hurt.

2013 PECOTA Projections

174 IP,  11-11 W-L,  3.88 ERA,  9.5 K/9,  3.8 BB/9,  39 GB%.

Mark Buerhle – LHP – 34 Years Old

By:Marshall Henson

2012 Stat Line –202.1 IP – 13-13 W-L, 4.18 FIP, 15.1 K%, 4.8 BB%, 41.3 GB%

2012 WAR: 3.6 rWAR. 1.9 fWAR. 1.2 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

Buerhle had the year you’d expect from him, in 2012, posting over 200 innings for the 12^th consecutive season, along with an ERA and FIP around 4.00. While the Marlins team around him certainly didn’t live up to expectations, it wasn’t due to Buehrle not living up to expectations.

2013 Season Preview

Perhaps due to Buehrle being overshadowed by the likes of Dickey, Johnson, and Morrow in the Blue Jays’ rotation, may allow Buerhle to be the dark horse in this rotation. Buerhle will quietly (and quickly) go out every fifth day and give the Jays a chance to win. He’s as sure as it gets with his performances throughout the years, and we should expect no different this coming year.

2013 Projected Role

Buerhle will start the 2013 season as the #3 starter in the Blue Jays’ rotation, but is probably the fourth best pitcher in the Jays rotation. He’ll pitch third to avoid back to back lefties in the rotation.

2013 PECOTA Projection

207.2 IP, 13-14 W-L, 4.53 ERA, 5.2 K/9, 2.0 BB/9, 46.1 GB%

Josh Johnson-RHP-29 years old

By:Nick Bell

2012 Stat Line: 191.1 IP, 8-14 W-L, 3.40 FIP, 20.7 K%,  8.2 BB%, 46.2 GB%.

2012 WAR: 3.3 rWAR. 3.4 fWAR. 2.3 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review:

There were some highs and lows in Johnson’s season in 2012 as he was able to pitch an excess of 190 innings after battling shoulder injuries, but also only posted 8 wins and a 3.81 ERA (the highest of his career). Many positives can be taken away for JJ from 2012, but he needs to build on that in 2013 in order to cash in this off-season. Being that he was the best pitcher in baseball from 2009-2011 according to FIP, I'd say there's a good chance he improves.

2013 Season Preview:

Johnson was one of the two starting pitchers acquired in the 12-player mega-deal with the Miami Marlins. The 6’6 right-hander from Minnesota has the build and talent to be the ace of this staff, but he is heading into the season as the number four starter in the revamped Blue Jays rotation. As Johnson enters his free agent year, you can expect a monster season from the best number four starter in the game, and who could end up being with the Blue Jays for a little longer than 2013.

2013 Projected Role:

Will go into the 2013 season penciled in as the #4 starter, but that’s just to break up the lefties.  If Johnson stays healthy he could form a formidable trio along with Brandon Morrow & R.A. Dickey
2013 PECOTA Projections
174 IP, 12-11 W-L, 3.60 ERA, 8.1 K/9, 2.6 BB/9, 48.5 GB%.

J.A. Happ – LHP – 30 Years Old
By: Marshall Henson

2012 Stat Line –144.2 IP – 10-11 W-L, 4.01 FIP, 23.0 K%, 8.9 BB%, 44.0 GB%

2012 WAR: 0.7 rWAR. 1.7 fWAR. 2.7 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

J.A. Happ came over in a mid-season trade from Houston, in which Alex Anthopoulos provided Houston with depth prospects—but nothing noteworthy. At the time Happ was acquired the Jays had a rare good quality turn thru the rotation, so the Jays decided to use the lefty out of the bullpen. His stint in the bullpen didn’t last long, as he gave up 4 runs in 7 innings and as the rotation started to weaken, Happ was given a shot. He ended the year well, with an ERA near 4 after the all-star break, showing that he could definitely handle a spot in the Blue Jays’ 2013 starting rotation.

2013 Season Preview

I have all the faith in the world that J.A. Happ can be a #4 pitcher in the MLB, especially in the #5 spot. His height creates a great plain for the fastball, which he controls easily in the 92-89 range. Happ will take this job and run, giving the Jays the quality starts they would’ve loved from Ricky Romero in 2012. Being the fifth pitcher comes with less pressure from the fans to be crazy successful, but also comes with more pressure from the minors if they stumble. Happ could thrive under this scenario and be has a chance to be of the best number 5 in all of Major League Baseball.

2013 Projected Role

Ricky Romero’s continued struggles throughout the spring, combined with Happ’s success, led to the decision ending with Happ starting in Toronto as the fifth starter. If Happ provides solid innings it’s safe to assume he’ll maintain the year as the fifth starter.  However, if Happ were to struggle, the club could look to the minors for a replacement, in options like Ricky Romero and Justin Germano.

2013 PECOTA Projection

125.2 IP, 7-9 W-L, 4.90 ERA, 7.4 K/9, 4.0 BB/9, 39.6 GB%

Casey Janssen– RHP – 31 Years Old
By: Ewan Ross

2012 Stat Line:63.2 IP, 1-1 W-L, 22 Saves, 3.08 FIP, 27.7 K%, 4.5 BB%, 42.4 GB%, 2.67 WPA

2012 WAR:1.2 fWAR, 1.8 rWAR, 1.0 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

Coming into the 2012 season, Casey Janssen was expected to have the same role he held in 2011, namely that of primary setup man to newly acquired closer Sergio Santos.  All that went out the window when Santos went down with a shoulder injury in April, and Janssen was forced to be installed as the closer.  While Janssen doesn’t fit the conventional mold you typically see from closers, given his below average 25% K%, that didn’t stop him from having a spectacular year as the fireman in the Jays bullpen.  Relying on his plus command (a BB% lower than 5%), he locked down 22 of his 25 save opportunities.  Also unlike almost every other pitcher on the Jays roster, he stayed healthy for the duration of the season. 

2013 Season Preview

The question that Casey Janssen faces this season is the same one he’ll have as long as he retains the closer job.  Can a pitcher who misses as few bats as Janssen does be an effective closer?  I’d much rather see a strikeout artist in the 9^th inning, since balls in play have a tendency to find more holes than strikeouts do.  That being said, if Janssen can continue to keep his walk rate below 5%, and keep hitters guessing with his deep arsenal, there is no reason to think Janssen won’t continue his run of success.

2013 Projected Role

Janssen will begin the year in the same role he held all of last year, that of the closer.  That may not be a permanent role this season.  If or when Sergio Santos proves himself healthy, you could see Janssen and him flip roles, and Janssen would return to the setup role he held in 2011.

2013 PECOTA Projection

55.2 IP, 3-1 W-L, 18 Saves, 8.1 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, 48% GB%

Sergio Santos – RHP – 29 Years Old
By: Ewan Ross

2012 Stat Line:5 IP – 0-1 W-L, 2 Saves, 6.49 FIP, 16.7 K%, 16.7 BB%, 50.0 GB%, (-0.70)WPA

2012 WAR: -0.2 fWAR, -0.4 rWAR, -0.1 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

After being acquired via trade from the Chicago White Sox, there were very high expectations from the former Blue Jays draft pick.  Santos was expected to be installed as the closer, and provide a significant upgrade.  Unfortunately, his 2012 season was over almost before it started.  After just five incredibly ineffective innings, he was shut down with season ending shoulder surgery.  This is hardly surprising since, like most converted position players, Santos’ mechanics are disastrous.  After undergoing surgery in mid-July, and rehabbing all off-season he is back ready to go at the start of 2013. 

2013 Season Preview

Now with a clean bill of health, Santos is ready to continue his career.  While the words “shoulder surgery” should scare anyone with even a passing knowledge of pitcher health (hello, Dustin McGowan), Santos has looked quite promising in spring training despite quite poor statistics.  Given both his past injuries, as well as the cringe worthy mechanics you never know when he might wind up back on the disabled list, but let’s just keep our fingers crossed he can stay healthy and on the mound. 

When Santos is healthy he has the potential to be one of the best closers in baseball.  He showed this in 2011, converting 30 of his 36 save opportunities, and powered by his awe inspiring slider posted a strikeout % of more than 35%.  If he can return to his 2011 form, Santos could be a key element of the Jays revamped bullpen.

2013 Projected Role

Santos will start the year as the primary right handed setup man to closer Casey Janssen.  As the season progresses we might see those roles flipped, since Santos has the more conventional stuff you would expect from your closer.  One last thing, is that because of the injuries we might see Santos’ workload restricted at least early on in the season.

2013 PECOTA Projection

43 IP, 2-1 W-L, 16 Saves, 10.7 K/9, 4.3 BB/9, 42% GB%

Darren Oliver – LHP – 42 Years Old

By: Ewan Ross

2012 Stat Line:56.2 IP – 3-4 W-L, 2 Saves, 2.95 FIP, 23.5 K%, 6.8 BB%, 44.2 GB%, 1.58 WPA

2012 WAR:1.1 fWAR, 1.9 bWAR, 0.5 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

Darren Oliver continues to fight off the impending doom that father time has in mind for the rest of the human population.  Remarkably at the age of 41, he managed to put together the best season of his career.  He was managed very carefully by the Blue Jays staff so as to minimize strain on his old man arm, such as not being used on back to back days.  While this kept his innings total down, that can also be credited to a certain degree with his stellar production.

2013 Preview

While there was heavy speculation during the offseason that Oliver would call it a career, he is indeed back for an incredible 19^th major league season.  Oliver projects to be the primary left handed setup man in the Blue Jays bullpen, and should see similar restrictions on his usage that he saw last season.  However, unlike last season, the Jays go into 2013 with a full complement of 3 left handed relievers (in addition to “fake lefty” Steve Delabar), so as to not be short handed on days when Oliver is unavailable. 

Of course the question with any 42 year old pitcher is if this is indeed the year that he loses the race against father time.  However, barring age related attrition there is very little to fear from Oliver, as he’s been one of the most consistent relief pitchers in MLB for the past 5 years.  He hasn’t posted an ERA north of 3 since 2008, and there’s no reason to think that should change this upcoming season. 

2013 Projected Role

Primary left handed setup man, and provide stellar leadership to the rest of the young relievers in the Jays bullpen.

2013 PECOTA Projection

51.2 IP, 3-1 W-L, 1 Save, 3.49 ERA, 8.1 K/9, 2.6 BB/9, 46% GB%

Steve Delabar – RHP – 29 Years Old
By: Ewan Ross

2012 Stat Line –66 IP, 4-3 W-L, 0 Saves, 4.08 FIP, 33.6 K%, 9.5 BB%, 42.9 GB%, (-0.57) WPA

2012 WAR:0.2 fWAR, 0.5 rWAR, 0.3 bbWAR

2012 Season in Review

In 2012, Delabar continued his miracle return to baseball.  He had walked away from the game for two seasons after struggling with injuries.  After rocketing from A ball all the way to the major leagues in 2011, he established himself as a very capable member of the Seattle bullpen, before being acquired at the trade deadline in exchange for outfielder Eric Thames. 

2013 Season Preview

Delabar’s sky high strikeout rate, as well as his ability to face both left handed and right handed batters means he’ll play a major role in the Blue Jays bullpen.  While Delabar struggled with an increased HR rate, almost all those came off his slider, which was largely scrapped in the latter half of the year.  As long as Mr. Delabar relies on his plus fastball, and his nasty split change as his primary secondary offering I’m very positive on him this upcoming season.

2013 Projected Role

Primary 7^th inning setup man, against both left handed, and right handed batters.

2013 PECOTA Projection –

51.2 IP, 2-1 W-L, 0 Saves, 4.23 ERA, 10.5 K/9, 4.7 BB/9, 43 GB%

Brett Cecil-LHP-26 years old

By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line: 61.1 IP, 2-4 W-L, 0 SV, 5.03 FIP, 18.9 K%, 8.5 BB%, 37.0 GB%,  -1.20 WPA
2012 WAR: -0.3 rWAR. 0.1 fWAR. 0.4 bbWAR
2012 Season in Review
Last season started off on the wrong foot for the lefty Cecil. He never built up his velocity in camp, and was sent down to AA New Hampshire to begin the season. After working his way back onto the Blue Jays roster, he struggled as a starter, and was sent back down to the minors in early August. But, when Brett came back up in September, he was brought up as a reliever, which in turn led to increased velocity and better results hope that over the course of a full season he could be a useful LOOGY.
2013 Season Preview
Brett is on the 25-man roster to begin the year, but might only be for a couple of weeks. He's the 3rd lefty in the bullpen behind both Darren Oliver and Aaron Loup, so work might be hard for him to find these next few games. After doing the "Steve Delabar" program in the off-season, Brett looks to use increased velocity and shorter outing to his advantage as he fights to stay on this team. If he does make it past mid-April, Brett should have a great year yielding the platoon advantage when he faces those lefties that Gibby is sure to put him in against.
2013 Projected Role
3rd lefty out of the pen. LOOGY. Mop-up guy. Long man. 7th-8th pitcher in the bullpen. Role up in the air until Brett Lawrie comes back from the disabled list. In competition with Jeffress to stay up with the big club.
2013 PECOTA Projection
30 IP, 1-1 W-L, 0 SV, 4.57 ERA, 6.9 K/9, 3.0 BB/9, 46.7 GB%

Esmil Rogers-RHP-27 years old
By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line: 78.2 IP, 3-3 W-L, 0 SV, 3.48 FIP, 23.9 K%, 8.6 BB%, 47.4 GB%, 0.42 WPA
2012 WAR: 1.0 rWAR. 0.9 fWAR. 1.0 bbWAR
2012 Season in Review
It was a tail of two seasons for the Dominican pitcher acquired last November by the Blue Jays. Through 25 innings last year in Colorado with the Rockies, Rogers pitched to an ERA over 8.00, and was then traded to the Indians. 44 appearances later, Rogers cut his ERA down to the mid-4's, increased his K% by 2% to over 24%, and cut his BB% by 8% to the mid 5-s. I guess you can say it was a nice second half for Rogers.
2013 Season Preview
Rogers comes into 2013 with a guaranteed role in the bullpen, and the faith of management to get guys out in big situations. Gibby will use his live arm late in the ball game to sit batters down, but Rogers is going to have to keep up his numbers from the second half last year if he wants to continue to get opportunities. The Jays aren't going to watch anybody fail at the big league level, and have good depth guys in AAA, so dominance is the only option for Esmil. As long as Colorado Rogers doesn't come back...
2013 Projected Role
Esmil is going to be used a lot this year, whether it be late in the game or as a mop up guy. He'll get his fair share if time on the mound, and because he's out of options, he's going to be given some rope as well.
2013 PECOTA Projection
43 IP, 2-1 W-L, 0 SV, 5.30 ERA, 7.1 K/9, 3.6 BB/9, 45.1 GB%

Jeremy Jeffress-RHP-25 years old

By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line: 13.1 IP, 0-0 W-L, 0 SV, 4.07 FIP, 17.8 K%, 17.8 BB%, 47.8 GB%, -0.44 WPA
2012 WAR: -0.5 rWAR. 0.0 fWAR. -0.2 bbWAR
2012 Season in Review
In the smallest of samples at the major league level (13.1 IP), Jeffress looked good, until his last two appearances, where he gave up 9 earned runs in 3 innings. Until then he had pitched well, averaging over a strike out per inning with an ERA under 1. In the minors, he had a 4.97 ERA, but still maintained that HIGH(hahahahaha) K/9 rate that comes when you throw 99 MPH consistently.
2013 Season Preview
Jeffress will be fighting with Brett Cecil until Lawrie comes back for the last bullpen spot, but Jeffress seems to have the advantage because of the numerous amount of lefties in the bullpen already, which makes Cecil redundant. If Jeffress cannot pick up his game from the spring where he did not look good at all, he'll be exposed to waivers, and likely picked up by the Astros, or Marlins, or Mets, or any 90+ loss teams. There will always be room in the majors for flamethrowers like Jeffress, but on a team looking for a championship like Toronto, there might not be one.
2013 Projected Role
7th-8th reliever until Lawrie comes back. Then threat of being exposed to waivers sets in. Long man if Cecil or Rogers not ready.
2013 PECOTA Projection
34.1 IP, 2-1 W-L, 0 SV, 5.22 ERA, 8.6 K/9, 5.9 BB/9, 49.9 GB%

Aaron Loup-LHP-25 years old

By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line: 30.2 IP, 0-2 W-L, 0 SV, 1.92 FIP, 18.0 K%, 1.7 BB%, 55.4 GB%, 0.30 WPA
2012 WAR: 0.6 rWAR. 0.9 fWAR. 0.5 bbWAR
2012 Season in Review
Of all the rookies to make their major league debuts with the Blue Jays in 2012, Loup's performance was easily the best. He got half a season in with the big club workload wise(for a reliever of course), and was nothing short of fabulous. He never let the ball leave the park, struck guys out, and almost never put a guy on base via the walk. Of course, this was all in a small sample size, but his numbers were enough to earn him a spot in the bullpen out of the gate this season, even though he has options and other guys don't.
2013 Season Preview
There are a lot of questions about whether Loup will be able to continue his 2012 success in the future because of the cloud of whether or not he features "good stuff" or if it's just deception. Apparently they've lowered his arm slot even more, which has brought another uptick in velocity, and at the same time has increased his chances that he stays in Toronto all year. Another question about him is whether or not he'll be able to retire righties as proficiently as lefties, but only time will tell for exciting young pitcher.
2013 Projected Role
Loup will be the 2nd lefty out of the pen behind Darren Oliver, and as we saw yesterday in the opener, he should get some mop up time as well. He could still be sent down when Brett Lawrie comes back, but I wouldn't bet on it. The Blue Jays LOVE this guy. #LoveThisGuy
2013 PECOTA Projection

43 IP, 2-1 W-L, 0 SV, 5.31 ERA, 6.7 K/9, 3.7 BB/9, 46.5 GB%

That's it for the pitchers. Go Jays!

30 Teams in 30 Days: Toronto Blue Jays(Part 1 of 2)

As we are a Blue Jays centred blog, we'll be doing a 2 part series for our 30/30 preview of the team. Today, we'll publish previews on each hitter on the 25 man roster(starter+bench), Wednesday will be each pitcher(rotation+bullpen).So, it ends up being a 30 in 34 days! We all contributed to this, so under each name of the player, we'll write who wrote the preview. Enjoy.

*Note, Brett Lawrie isnt included in here, as he'll start on the DL and the first two sections are just dealing with the opening day roster.  He'll be profiled during the 3rd section where depth & prospects are discussed.

All the smiles!

Jose Reyes-SS- 29 years old

By: Isaac Boloten

2012 Stat Line-716 PA, .287/.347/.433, 11 HR,  57 RBI,  86 R,40 SB, 109 wRC+. 
2012 WAR:2.9 rWAR. 4.2 fWAR.

2012 Season in Review

Last season certainly wasn’t a career year for the Dominican shortstop, but that doesn’t mean he wasn’t very productive, accumulating a 4.2 fWAR, over a whopping 716 plate appearances.  If Reyes plays as many games this year as he did last year, you can count on those plate appearances increasing even more, based on the strength of the lineup around him. Overall, while Miami wasn’t the greatest of situations for Jose, he still put up some very nice numbers, while managing to stay healthy.

2013 Season Preview

Jose, a product of the huge deal with Miami, is already making a name for himself in Blue Jay land.  From his stellar play in the World Baseball Classic, and his inability to stop smiling.  He is a fan favourite, and the Jays haven’t even played their first regular season game.  One of the major concerns coming into the season with Reyes is whether he will be able to handle the artificial turf at the Rogers Centre.  It is a reason to be worried, as he has had hamstring problems in the past, and historically, the turf hasn’t always been great on players’ legs. The good thing is that it's usually the knee with turf, not hamstring, so hopefully Reyes remains healthy.The thing is with a player like Reyes, is that if he isn’t hitting the ball too well, it’s not a huge concern, as he has ways to get on base with his legs, and his eye at the plate, so he’s never hurting you if he’s in the lineup no matter what, and is almost a lock to post a WAR around 4 every single year (if healthy).

2013 Projected Role

The leadoff hitter. The man who gets on base for the big bats, and steals a ton of bases. Also; provides leadership and optimism in the clubhouse with his enthusiasm for the game.

2013 PECOTA Projection

650 PA, .291/.344/.457, 14 HR, 65 RBI, 91 R, 36 SB

Melky Cabrera-LF-28 years old

By: Nick Bell

2012 Stat Line-501 PA. .346/.390/.516. 11 HR. 60 RBI. 84 Runs. 13 SB. 149 wRC+. 
2012 WAR:4.7 rWAR, 4.4 fWAR.

Review of 2012

What can I say about the Dominican outfielder that hasn’t been said before?  He has really come on in the last two years with the Royals and then developed into a superstar with the Giants in 2012. He was subsequently suspended for 50 games for PED use, and was not added to the post-season roster for their eventual World Series run while also not being given a ring, which he hopes to claim, clean, in Toronto.

Preview for 2013

That’s the brief on Melky, and adding to that, Alex Anthopoulos further fueled the fire by signing the outfielder to a 2yr/ $16 MM deal in November to compliment the massive Miami deal and the famous R.A. Dickey deal to complete the most eventful offseason in recent baseball history. I don’t see Cabrera hitting .346 again, but I do see him being a very good hitter, provide solid defense in left field, and a key piece in any Blue Jays postseason push.

2013 Projected Role

Melky will be the number 2 hitter in the lineup and play left field for the Jays in 2013

2013 PECOTA Projection

551 PA, .280/.331/.427,13 HR, 56 RBI, 70 Runs, 12 SB

Blue Jays 2012 in one picture.

Jose Bautista- RF- 32 years old

By:Gideon Turk

2012 Stat Line-399 PA .241/.358/.527. 27 HR. 65 RBI. 64 Runs. 5 SB. 140 wRC+.
2012 WAR :3.4 rWAR. 3.1 fWAR.

2012 Season In Review

After starting off cold in the month of April hitting only 3 home runs, Jose turned it back onto 2010 and 2011 levels in May and June, hitting 23 homers in those 2 months, while OPSing over 1.000. He then went on to play in the all-star game and hit in the home run derby, but he only lasted 4 games after the break before he injured his wrist at Yankee Stadium, which ended up costing him basically the rest of the season(except for a 2 game period in mid-August).

2013 Season Preview

Jose had wrist surgery to repair the effected spot, and was back to his usually self this spring, hitting 6 home runs in the tune up games, good enough to lead all Blue Jay hitters. He comes into this season as a dark horse AL MVP candidate, and is truly the piece who holds this club together, both on and off the field. His health will be in the spotlight the entire year, but from what we've seen during spring training, he should be back to normal, with hopefully no residual effects from the wrist injury and subsequent surgery. Expecting him to hit 40+ home runs again might be a little too much, but mid 30's is very reasonable, and he will still be able walk frequently in front of the other Dominican basher, Edwin Encarnacion.

2013 Projected Role

Bautista will serve as the number 3 hitter in the lineup, hopefully driving in Jose Reyes and the Melk Man whenever is possible. He will also continue his role as the leader of the club, something that was missed after he left last year to injury, and anchor the outfield in right with his rocket of an arm(and lacklustre defense, but whatever...)

2013 PECOTA Projections

628 PA. .255/.371/.514. 35 HR.101 RBI. 7 SB

Edwin Encarnacion, 1B/DH, #10

By:Nick Bell
2012 Stat Line: 644 PA, .280/.384/.557. 42 HR. 110 RBI. 90 RBI. 13 SB. 152 wRC+
2012 WAR: 4.9 rWAR. 4.2 fWAR

2012 Season in Review

The Blue Jays clean-up hitter heading into 2013 had a breakout year last year, posting career highs in nearly every offensive category while playing some stellar defense at first base. The native of the Dominican Republic was the Blue Jays’ best and most consistent hitter by far last year as Jose Bautista spent significant time on the DL. 2012 was a great year for EE, now let’s hope that he can build on this magnificent year towards an even better 2013.

2013 Season Preview

Many wonder if Encarnacion can repeat that type of production or if this was merely a fluke year. Me personally, watching him hit this spring and in the WBC, he looks like he had gotten even better.  If that’s true, it is possible that Edwin could match up with fellow countryman Jose Bautista for the team and league lead in home runs. You can also expect #10 to make his first all-star team, which he was robbed of last year, especially given Mark Teixeira's injury problems taking another first baseman out of the mix.

2013 Projected Role

Encarnacion can be expected to have almost the same exact role as last season. Entrenched solidly in the cleanup spot behind Jose Bautista, and be the club's everyday first baseman.

2013 PECOTA Projections
643 PA .254/.341/.471, 30 HR, 94 RBI, 8 SB

Let's just hope we don't see
these again from Colby.

Colby Rasmus- CF-26 years old
By:Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line-625 PA. .223/.289/.400. 23 HR. 75 RBI. 75 Runs. 4 SB. 85 wRC+
2012 WAR:1.7 rWAR. 1.2 fWAR

2012 Season in Review

It was another season to forget for the once promising center fielder from Alabama.  After struggling to
begin the year, Colby turned on the jets in June(just like others in the lineup).  However after he got back from the All-Star break, he faded, hitting an abysmal .176/.238/.278 in those final two months, although he did miss sometime to injury. AA has been saying that the reason for that absolutely horrendous stretch was that Colby works too hard.  Taking way too many swings in the cage and BP early in the season, causing him to wear down in the last few months. I don't necessarily buy that, but regardless, 2012 was a horrific year for Colby as he saw his numbers drop and top prospect Anthony Gose impress in a small sample of major league time.

2013 Season Preview
This year is huge for Rasmus.  He could be a non-tender candidate if he doesn't act upon his potential, especially with Gose nipping at his heels in AAA.  Gose provides better D and exciting speed that could force him into the lineup.  As a result if Colby struggles, AA won't hesitate to pull the plug, and call up Anthony from Buffalo.  It's all about being smart for Colby, as he has to learn how to adjust to the adjustments the pitchers are making towards him, and work at a normal rate, so he doesn't injure himself and tire himself out 3 months into the season.

2013 Projected Role
Colby comes into the year projected to hit 5th and play centre field according to MLBDC every day, but John Gibbons hinted recently that Emilio Bonifacio might get some starts versus lefties in centre field, so the threat of a platoon is staring Colby in the face. Many people don't realize this, but he's actually worse against lefties than Adam Lind is, so a platoon might not be a bad thing for him(it wouldn't be).

2013 PECOTA Projections
561 PA. .242/.311/.430. 21 HR. 73 RBI. 6 SB.

Adam Lind- DH- 29 years old
By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line - 353 PA. .255/.314/.414. 11 HR. 45 RBI. 28 Runs. 0 SB. 98 wRC+
2012 WAR:0.2 rWAR. 0.0 fWAR.

2012 Season in Review
Lind's first half was surprising, not because he was so disappointing, but rather that he was sent down to AAA.  It was something that caught me, and I'm sure many others off guard, just like the Ricky Romero demotion this past week.  You thought it was a good idea, but didn't actually think it would happen.  He was sent to Las Vegas in mid-May, when he was hitting a paltry .186 with only 3 home runs.  After lighting up AAA pitching as expected to the tune of a .392 average with 8 homers in 32 games, Lind was recalled, and from that point on, hit .296 in 54 games. It was refreshing to see Lind hit the ball, especially when he went the other way against lefties. I still wouldn't have him in the lineup against a lefty, but he wasn't awful down the stretch last season.

2013 Season Preview
Lind's offensive expectations have dropped significantly since his silver slugger winning year of 2009, and even more so with all the new additions to the Jays this past off-season.  He isn't expected to hit high up in the order, but rather likely in the bottom third of the order, so the pressure is not on Lind this season to perform like an All-Star.  This should be he last year in a Jays uniform, but I'd also expect a new DH come August 1st, and the trade deadline has passed.  I just don't think Adam Lind is a DH on a championship team.  Expect around 20 home runs with a low average and a low OBP for Lind in 2013.

2013 Projected Role
Lind is projected as the number 6 hitter according to MLBDC, but I think it's more likely we see him 7th because Gibby probably shouldn't want 2 lefties back to back. He'll also serve as the clubs full time DH for the first month or so of the season, and then Gibby and Co. will make a decision on whether to platoon him or not. He'll most likely end up in a platoon, with either Rajai Davis or Mark DeRosa. DeRosa is my choice, although I believe the club is leaning towards Davis.

2013 PECOTA Projections
449 PA. .267/.324/.461. 18 HR. 62 RBI. 1 SB.

Emilio Bonifacio-UTIL- 27 years old

By: Isaac Boloten 

2012 Stat Line - 274 PA, .258/.330/.316, 1 HR, 11 RBI, 30 R, 30 SB, 79 wRC+ 
2012 WAR:0.5 rWAR, 0.4 fWAR.

2012 Season in Review

2012 was shortened to only 64 games for Bonifacio in Miami, due to a thumb injury.  In the small sample size that was 2012, Bonifacio, showed that power is not something he brings to the table, and established himself as more of a slap hitter.  Despite 2012 not being a very productive season, Bonifacio showed his incredible speed on the basepaths, stealing 30 bases in 64 games.(!!!)  On top of that, he was only caught 3 times.

2013 Season Preview

In Brett Lawrie’s (hopefully) short absence to start the season, Bonifacio will likely split time between third base (against righties), and 2nd base (against lefties).  Once Lawrie returns, we should see him settle into a platoon with Izturis at 2nd base, while also filing in all over the rest of the diamond when people need a day off.  With the bat, you can’t expect all that much, but he doesn’t have much trouble getting on base, (career .329 OBP) which is really all you can ask for out of Emilio.

2013 Projected Role

Once Lawrie returns from the DL, the plan is for Bonifacio to play 2nd base when Morrow, Johnson and possibly Happ are on the mound, and then likely filling in all over the diamond when people need a day off.  There is also some speculation that he could see time in center field against tough left handed pitchers.  Another likely role for Bonifacio is a pinch runner off the bench in a big spot late in games.

2013 PECOTA Projections

468 PA,  .260/.316/.361, 4 HR, 37 RBI, 53 R, 27 SB

Maicer Izturis-UTIL-32 years old

By: Isaac Boloten

2012 Stat Line - 319 PA, .256/.320/.315, 2 HR, 20 RBI, 35 R, 17 SB, 82 wRC+
2012 WAR:0.3 rWAR. 0.8 fWAR.

2012 Season in Review

This past year was yet another consistent season from Maicer, who has proven that consistency is perhaps his greatest skill.  He kept his strike out rate down, and posted his highest stolen base total yet. He played steady (if not stellar) defense and remained healthy and durable, which are essentially the 2 reasons that AA signed him this off-season.

2013 Season Preview

Until Lawrie returns you can expect Izturis to get some time at third base, however once Brett returns we should see Izturis settle into a strange platoon with Bonifacio at the keystone.  Izturis should get the starts when the more groundball heavy starting pitchers are on the mound.  That will mean Dickey, Buerhle, and potentially Happ, while Bonifacio takes the more flyball heavy starters.  Izturis will also see any action filling in as the primary backup at both shortstop and third base for defensive purposes.  You can expect Izturis to 

2013 Projected Role

Starting third baseman vs RHP for the 1^st week or so, then will transition into the part-time second baseman/ultra utility man. Slated to bat ninth.

2013 PECOTA Projections

494 PA, .266/.331/.384, 7 HR,  46 RBI, 56 R, 16 SB.

Rajai Davis- OF-32 years old
By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line - 487 PA. .257/.309/.378. 8 HR. 43 RBI. 64 Runs. 46 SB. 86 wRC+
2012 WAR:0.7 rWAR. 0.4 fWAR

2012 Season in Review
Davis was a major benefactor from the string of injuries that effected the Blue Jays last year, playing a lot more than he normally would due to injuries to Colby Rasmus, Jose Bautista, and the trades of Eric Thames and Travis Snider at the deadline. The extra playing time didn't change anything in him though, as he still stole his 40+ bases, and didn't get on base well. He got caught stealing a league leading 13 times in 2012, something that he needs to change if he wants to get opportunities this year.

2013 Season in Preview
Rajai is going to be in for a shock this season after last year. Coming off of a year where he got into 142 games, I'd be surprised if he got more than half of that in 2013. Emilio Bonifacio(if he doesn't start) will be the primary pinch runner because of his lightning quick speed and great success rate(unlike Davis). Not only will his pinch running situations decrease, but Boni also plays the outfield, along with mark DeRosa, so Davis might not get so many spot starts filling in there either. The only real chance for him to play should be platooning with Lind, but it remains to be seen if he will get that job. He'll still rack up 30 steals, but 300 PA is a major question right now, and I think something between 200-250 is more realistic at this point.

2013 Projected Role
With Bonifacio in the lineup to start the year due to Brett Lawrie's injury, Davis will be the first pinch runner, and the 4th outfielder. But, when Lawrie comes back, and Boni likely moves to the bench(along with a more permanent role for Mark DeRosa), Davis' playing time will decrease. In his last year with the club, he has become redundant, and it wouldn't surprise me to see him part of a package in a trade mid-season. Whatever his role with this club is, he is still a fun player to watch because of his speed, so when he does get a chance to play, you better not miss it.

2013 PECOTA Projections
268 PA. .261/.306/.376. 3 HR. 21 RBI. 25 SB

Mark DeRosa-UTIL- 38 years old
By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line - 101 PA. .188/.300/.247. 0 HR. 6 RBI. 13 Runs. 1 SB. 57 wRC+
2012 WAR:-0.7 rWAR. -0.5 fWAR.

2012 Season in Review
DeRosa continued to be hampered by a wrist that wasn't 100% in 2012 for the third straight year, but his mentoring skills were at their best once again, which is what he was basically brought in to do this season. He coached Bryce Harper into being a big leaguer, and has always been known for his unbelievable clubhouse presence. His numbers are ugly because he wasn't healthy(and he's old), but I'm confident he can regain some of his pre-injured self back.

2013 Season Preview
If spring training is any indication of things, Mark DeRosa's wrist is feeling better, given his 2 spring home runs. That is all that needs to be working for DeRosa to be a servicable player, especially off the bench, and although I wouldn't put much stock into spring numbers, his 6 XBH are more than he had all of last year, so I think he's in the best shape since being injured(he has also said this). He won't get much playing time, but being a great clubhouse presence and taking Brett Lawrie under his wing like he did with Harper last year is a value that no statistic can measure(seriously, there's no statistic).

2013 Projected Role
With Lawrie starting the year on the disabled list, DeRosa will platoon with Maicer Izturis over at third base, but after that, he will be regulated back to the bench, at least for April. nce the decision on whether or not Adam Lind needs a platoon partner is made, DeRosa might find himself in another platoon role. But, until then, it's mentoring and bench duty for the veteran.

2013 PECOTA Projections
230 PA. .241/.319/.390. 6 HR. 25 RBI. 2 SB.

He scares me.

Henry Blanco-C- 41 years old
By: Gideon Turk
2012 Stat Line - 67 PA. .188/.224/.281. 1 HR. 7 RBI. 6 Runs. 1 SB. 29 wRC+
2012 WAR: 0.2 rWAR. 0.1 fWAR

2012 Season in Review

Blanco barely played last season, and will likely have the same type of role this year as J.P. Arencibia is set to catch R.A Dickey, so a personal catcher won't be needed. Blanco made the team because the club views Josh Thole as a starting option if JPA goes down with an injury, so he needs every day at bats. Henry was horrible once again in 2012 offensively, and his defense is always a good, just like it was last year.

2013 Season Preview

Blanco just here for defense I guess, because as previously mentioned, he provides nothing with the bat. His all around defense is good though, with a good arm, good framing skills, and good blocking ability. Maybe he'll teach JPA a few things, but other than that, his season should be just like every other he's had. No hit good defense catcher.

2013 Projected Role

As the backup to JPA, he should play once or twice a week, get to catch Dickey often, and he'll mentor JPA a bit.  I think its also quite likely that after a short period of time we'll see Blanco become Dickey's personal catcher.  He's here for his defense, and it'll be needed most when Dickey is on the mound.  For $750K, it's good enough.

2013 PECOTA Projections
60 PA. .231/.290/.372. 2 HR. 6 RBI. 0 SB.