Toronto Blue Jays: Who Should Fans Vote for to Make All-Star Game?
Marcus Stroman
The first honourable mention goes to the player who shows that height doesn’t measure heart – Marcus Stroman. The recently turned 26-year-old has been having a solid season on the mound, despite the lack of run support.
He currently spots a 2-2 record on the season with a 2.97 ERA. However, he continues to show dominance on the mound, having 28 strikeouts and only allowing seven walks to his opponents.
His recent start against the the Tampa Bay Rays showed his determination to get the job done, even without getting the decision in the game.
Stroman also tends to improve in May. In 2016, he went 2-1 with 32 strikeouts and allowed only 11 walks. If history repeats itself, Stroman could be considered for the All-Star game.
Josh Donaldson
This is where things get interesting. Josh Donaldson has been out since mid-April with that calf injury.
Yet before that calf injury, Donaldson was being his traditional MVP self in just nine games. The 2015 American League MVP was hitting .310/.429/.586, with two home runs and four runs batted in, while drawing six walks.
What makes this mention unique? Before Monday’s game against the New York Yankees, he led the team in wins above replacement (WAR) with 0.4.
The return date for Donaldson still isn’t clear. However, once he comes back, he could very well get right back into the All-Star mix.