Toronto Blue Jays: Roberto Osuna and his anxiety

Jun 19, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts after defeating the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 19, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Roberto Osuna (54) reacts after defeating the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sports media outlets weren’t hesitant with broadcasting about Toronto Blue Jays closer Roberto Osuna facing anxiety. The news continues to show this issue faces so many people.

On June 24, the Score updated many fans on something that probably came to as a surprise to many. Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Roberto Osuna felt “anxious and lost,” and was seeing a psychologist for mental illness.

This was shocking as although the Jays still haven’t hit a record of .500, Osuna has been lights out and very consistent. Clearly whatever he has been facing is personal and separate from baseball.

Osuna and his anxiety

According to Bleacher Report, this is what Osuna had to say about his feelings of anxiousness and anxiety:

"“I don’t really know how to explain it. I just feel anxious. I feel like I’m lost a little bit right now,” he said. “This has nothing to do with me being on the field. I feel great out there. It’s just when I’m out of baseball. When I’m not on the field, I feel just weird and a little bit lost.”"

Osuna, 22, represents an age where many young adults face anxiety. Luckily and clearly, he has not let whatever he is facing affect his game.

In the midst of his third good season, Osuna has a 2.48 ERA and 0.76 WHIP with 37 strikeouts. These numbers are very impressive for the youngster and by the Jays not letting the Washington Nationals attain him, it shows they have strong pride and faith in his abilities.

At the beginning of the season, Osuna seemed off in his game. However, while his game might have been questioned at the time, he has since shown his mechanics are strong and that he has so much potential as the Toronto Blue Jays’ closer.

Osuna shows courage

Osuna speaking openly about his anxiety is very inspiring. It spreads awareness about the illness and shows those who are struggling with anxiety that many go through it, even athletes.

So remember that you’re never alone. Osuna speaking out about anxiety is important. Primarily, on the fact it shouldn’t be overlooked and it is okay to speak out about it.

Osuna showing a performance where he was lights out was invigorating. Additionally, the Jays didn’t allow themselves to get swept by the Kansas City Royals, making manager John Gibbons proud.

The Toronto Blue Jays’ performance on Sunday resulted in a 8-2 victory. The Jays scored five runs in the sixth inning, allowing Darwin Barney to hit twice in the same inning.

Next: Jays need to retool or rebuild for the future

Overall, this was a big moment for the Jays. Lets hope they can carry this momentum with them, and that Osuna has left a lasting impression on his teammates, as he already has on his fans.