Toronto Blue Jays: Aaron Sanchez says finger is healthy

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Aaron Sanchez is already looking forward to spring training next year, but will he be able to return to the form he showed in 2016?

Most fans will agree Aaron Sanchez‘s blister issues last season got to the stage of being ridiculous. At times it almost seemed like the Toronto Blue Jays were trying to rush him back, before he was truly ready.

The led to four separate trips to the disabled list during the 2017 campaign. The end result was just eight starts and a 1-3 record, as well as career-worsts for ERA and WHIP.

Following the season, as reported by TSN, Sanchez went to New York to meet Dr. Thomas Graham. The hand specialist advised the best cure was rest, which offers even more evidence the pitcher rushed back before he was properly healed.

As a result, the 25-year-old is now ready and raring to go. Speaking on Monday to TSN Radio 1050’s Mike Hogan, he said:

"“As far as my finger looks now, everything looks good. It’s healthy and strong so I’m looking forward to next year. It was one of those things where a lot of the stuff was out of my control, so I really chose not to sweat it.”"

Understandably, there will still be some concern about the blisters. Sanchez has essentially dealt with the issue throughout his professional career.

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This leads to the question of if the Barstow, California native will ever return to the form of 2016, which saw him voted to his first All-Star Game. He was sensational, recording a 15-2 record in 30 starts and leading the American League with a 3.00 ERA.

Sanchez explained to Hogan that part of the process of rediscovering his form, will include just going back to basics. One of the major issues with his ongoing blister issues last year, was the inability to even do the little things that mean some much to a player’s success.

The 2010 first round draft pick himself wonders if he can reproduce his earlier success, although he’s convinced it will all work out. He said:

"“I’m worried about going out and doing what I did in 2016 and if I’m able to do that and stay in-tune to what I’m supposed to be doing I think all that other stuff comes along.”"

At this stage, it really is the great unknown, when it comes to Sanchez. While blisters do heal on their own with plenty of rest, there are no guarantees he won’t get any more, especially given his professional career to date.

Regardless, you have to believe the Toronto Blue Jays — and the player himself — are now better educated, after last year’s ongoing issues. Now, it’s up to everyone to put this expanded knowledge to good use, to help Sanchez truly fulfill his potential as a number one pitcher.

Next: More fireworks with Scott Boras?

Do you think Sanchez’s blister issue will continue to cause problems, or do you believe it’s now all/mostly in the past? Further, what kind of season are you predicting for him in 2018? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.