Toronto Blue Jays Just Playing it Safe With Roberto Osuna
By Paul Taylor
Roberto Osuna’s absence for the Toronto Blue Jays is reportedly not expected to extend beyond his current 10-day stint on the disabled list.
Understandably, the Toronto Blue Jays‘ season opening loss to the Baltimore Orioles was frustrating, especially as it came in extra innings. However, this is arguably offset by some long-term good news, which is more important when considering we’re just one game into the 162-game season.
As reported by MLB.com’s Gregor Chisholm, Roberto Osuna is not expected to require more than 10 days on the Disabled List. In fact, it seems like the Blue Jays are just being extra cautious with their young closer.
Osuna was placed on the DL on Sunday due to lingering tightness in his neck, which was described as a cervical spasm. General Manger Ross Atkins explained the club’s rational to Sportsnet‘s Shi Davidi and other members of the media:
"“It’s not a complete shutdown but a shift in his routine and not a ramp up. There will be a lot less intensity because he’s not having to get ready going into a game. We felt like with a moderate continuation of his development and build-up of spring training that we had a better chance to have him put his best foot forward the day he pitches.”"
The 22-year old can be activated on April 11. Further, the Blue Jays don’t think he will need a rehab assignment before returning.
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Osuna has been fantastic during his first two seasons in the Majors, with a 2.63 ERA and 56 saves in 65 opportunities. His primary weapons are a 97 mph fourseam fastball and a 87 mph slider.
Another reason for the Blue Jays’ being comfortable with sending the Mexico native to the DL, is depth. With his experience, Jason Grilli is an excellent short-term replacement (regardless of what happened to him on opening day).
In addition, as reported by Chris Okrainetz, Joe Biagini is another option to close. Overall, the Blue Jays are in a good position, with the extra rest only benefiting Osuna — and the team — in the long term.
Next: Blue Jays' Season Preview
Just to play devils advocate, pitching coach Pete Walker indicated Osuna is pretty healthy and could have actually pitched on opening day. If true, do you agree with the Blue Jays giving the youngster’s arm extra rest, or would you have preferred him to be on the roster from day one? Share your thoughts in the comments section.