Title: Alek Manoah Set for Return to Toronto Blue Jays Rotation
Date: July 4, 2023
Alek Manoah, the talented right-hander for the Toronto Blue Jays, is all set to make his return to the team’s rotation this Friday, as confirmed by manager John Schneider. After struggling with his form in the early part of the 2023 season, Manoah was sent down to the rookie-level Florida Complex League on June 6. However, his recent performances have shown signs of improvement, prompting the Blue Jays to recall him.
Manoah, a 2022 All-Star and American League Cy Young finalist, had a stellar season last year with a 16-7 record and a remarkable 2.24 ERA in 31 starts. In stark contrast, this year has proven to be a challenging one for the talented pitcher. In his 13 starts this season, Manoah has struggled, posting a disappointing 1-7 record with a 6.36 ERA.
Recognizing the need for Manoah to regain his confidence and work on his form, the Blue Jays made the decision to send him to the minors to focus on his mechanics without the pressures of regular competition. Despite a difficult debut in the minors, allowing 11 runs in just 2⅔ innings, Manoah showed signs of improvement in his most recent outing. Pitching for Double-A New Hampshire against Portland on Sunday, he struck out 10 batters and conceded only one run over five innings.
Manager John Schneider expressed optimism about Manoah’s return and his dedication to helping the team succeed. Schneider shared that Manoah’s primary goal is to contribute to the team’s victory and that he had been frustrated by his inability to give the Blue Jays a chance to win consistently. Schneider added that Manoah’s commitment to facing the ups and downs of the sport is admirable.
Manoah is expected to rejoin the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday and will start in their upcoming game against the Detroit Tigers. As a result, the Blue Jays have revised their pitching rotation, with All-Star Kevin Gausman now scheduled to take the mound on Saturday instead of Friday.
With Manoah demonstrating positive signs during his recent Minor League appearance, the Blue Jays are hopeful that the right-hander is on the path to regaining his dominant form. His return to the rotation is seen as a crucial step in the team’s quest for success this season.
Note: The information in this article was sourced from The Associated Press.