Toronto Blue Jays: When the Going Gets Tough, Keep Going

Apr 6, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Ezequiel Carrera (3), relief pitcher Jason Grilli (37), center fielder Kevin Pillar (11) and teammates congratulate each other after they beat the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 6, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Ezequiel Carrera (3), relief pitcher Jason Grilli (37), center fielder Kevin Pillar (11) and teammates congratulate each other after they beat the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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As of recent, losing has been a part of the Toronto Blue Jays’ game, but in reality losing is a part of playing and once you get past that you can focus on winning. Rallying and fighting through tough games is what it is all about.

The Toronto Blue Jays definitely didn’t plan for a 2017 much like this one, but losing is all a part of winning and of the game. When you’re in a slump it can be frustrating, especially when on top of the losing there comes countless injuries.

Josh Donaldson, Aaron Sanchez, J.A. Happ and now Troy Tulowitzki have already spent time on the disabled list. However, when injuries arise there’s not much you can do, but make use of what you have and call up players.

Despite the 4-13 record entering Sunday’s action, the Jays are starting to show some optimism. Players like Russell Martin are starting to hit the ball more, which is a good sign. Sometimes players get into hitting droughts. but the good thing about a drought is that it has to end eventually.

Bautista Is Back

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Another sign that showed some spark from the Jays, was Friday’s game against the L.A. Angels. The game went into extra innings and what looked like would be another addition to the loss column was a pleasant surprise.

A 13th inning home run from the man we were all thinking had disappeared – Jose Bautista. His first home run of the season couldn’t have come at a better time, as the Jays held on for a critical win over the Angels.

According to The Star’s Richard Griffin:

"“The win was huge, because after taking a three-run lead on a blast to centre field by Jose Bautista, his first of the year, the Angels scored two runs in the bottom of the 13th and left the winning run at second base with Albert Pujols and C.J. Cron batting against Joe Biagini, who had not been expected to pitch.”"

At this point for The Toronto Blue Jays, every win is important. You have to battle through every game. It is the only way you will stand a chance at the postseason.

Next: Justin Smoak Lights a Flame

The game against L.A. also showcased Justin Smoak and how he is continuously producing for the Jays, getting a double in the 4th inning on Friday. Games like these should give the Jays confidence to push forward in future. At times like these, everything is a work in progress and you just have to take it day by day.