Toronto Blue Jays: Who Does Jose Bautista Think He’s Kidding?
By Paul Taylor
As the Toronto Blue Jays prepare to take on the Texas Rangers, Jose Bautista claims he’s not looking for revenge, but no one’s buying it.
Some baseball players have a way about them, that just rubs people up the wrong way. Whether Toronto Blue Jays‘ fans want to admit it or not, Jose Bautista fits into this category.
Look no further than last season’s enthralling bat flip moment for evidence as this. While Blue Jays fans saw this as confidence and showmanship on the part of their six-time All-Star, others perceived it as arrogance and belittling the opposition:
Certainly, the Texas Rangers didn’t appreciate or forget what happened, leading to the incident earlier this season, when Bautista’s chin met Rougned Odor‘s fist. Now, the two teams meet again, in an eagerly anticipated best-of-five series that was almost destined to take place.
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Understandably, the Blue Jays’ slugger was asked if he would be looking for some payback against the Rangers. However, he insists this is not the case.
Speaking to Sportsnet‘s Ben Nicholson-Smith and the rest of the media, Bautista said: “I’m not looking for revenge. I’m looking to win ballgames.”
Of course, the 35-year old has to say this. After all, the last thing he wants to do is provide any extra motivation for the Rangers – not that they will need any.
However, don’t think for one moment that Bautista isn’t looking for some measure of revenge. We’re talking about a man who takes extreme pride in himself and his accomplishments.
In addition, the Dominican Republic native carries a huge chip on his shoulder, with him continually proving critics wrong throughout his career. And if nothing else, it’s only human nature to want to get some vengeance after being punched by Odor.
Despite Bautista’s claim that he’s not looking for revenge, he did understate ever so slightly: “They might have their reasons to dislike me. I might have a couple more reasons to dislike them.”
One thing the 2000 20th round draft pick’s prepared for — apart from Odor’s fist — is a hostile reception from the Rangers’ fans: “I’m expecting to get booed, so I think I’m going to be able to handle it just fine.”
Bautista has not been his usual productive self this season, due in large part to several visits to the disabled list. However, he once again proved his ability to deliver in big moments, with a home run in the wild card game against the Baltimore Orioles.
Now, the three-time Silver Slugger prepares for another massive occasion, against the hated Rangers. And if he somehow gets another series-winning score against them, his reaction will betray his claim that he’s not looking for revenge.
Next: Roberto Osuna expected back for Rangers series
Okay, now’s your chance to have your say. Who do you think will win the series between the Blue Jays and the Rangers and why? Let us know in the comments section below.