Monday, October 02, 2006
The Season in Review- Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays went into 2006 hoping to compete for a playoff spot. They end the season happy to be in 2nd. They have reason to be happy about 2nd, though, as it was the first time since 1993 that they finished above 3rd. It was also the first time since 2003 that the Jays finished with a winning record.
For the most part, their offense was led by center fielder Vernon Wells and 3rd baseman Troy Glaus, who each hit over 30 home runs and drove in at least 100 runs. They also received help from 1st baseman Lyle Overbay, who they acquired from Milwaukee in a trade before the season started. Overbay hit .312 with 22 home runs and 92 RBI.
Roy Halladay pitched like a true ace once again, finishing the season with a 3.19 ERA and a 16-5 record. A.J. Burnett, when he wasn’t on the DL, was a bit inconsistent. He ended up with a 10-8 record and a 3.98 ERA. All the Jays pitchers got help from a strong bullpen that featured B.J. Ryan and his 1.37 ERA. Ryan saved 38 games, while blowing only 4 saves. Also coming up big in the bullpen for Toronto was 23-year old right-hander Brandon League. League had an ERA of 2.53 through 42.2 innings, a 1.01 WHIP, and 12 holds.
The Blue Jays strong season was not because of quick runners. Toronto runners stole only 65 bases all season, ranking them 9th in the American League and 22nd in the majors. Just over half of those 65 steals came from outfielders Vernon Wells and Alex Rios.
The Jays could be competing to make the playoffs in 2007 if Rios and Wells continue to improve, Glaus doesn’t get hurt, their bullpen stays consistent, and Halladay has another great year. They also have hope that 2nd baseman Aaron Hill and outfielder Adam Lind will develop into great players at some point in the next few years.
Overall, it was a good season for the Jays, and their future looks good, as well. Their fans can be hopeful that in 2007, playoff baseball will be returning to Canada for the first time since 1993.
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