The Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays have been busy in the trade market recently, with both teams making significant moves leading up to the deadline. Now, as they prepare to face off in a series finale, both teams will be looking to refocus and get back to playing baseball.
The Orioles, who have won three of their last four games, including a 6-2 victory against the Blue Jays on Tuesday, will be aiming for a series win. They have added several new faces to their roster, including starting pitchers Zach Eflin and Trevor Rogers, outfielder/designated hitter Eloy Jimenez, and relievers Seranthony Dominguez and Gregory Soto. Infielder Jackson Holliday, the top prospect in baseball according to MLB Pipeline, is also set to join the team after a stint in Triple-A Norfolk.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde expressed excitement about the team’s new additions, noting that the trades have brought new energy and new routines to the clubhouse. Pitcher Corbin Burnes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact of having new teammates and adjusting to new routines.
On the other side, the Blue Jays have had to part ways with several key players, including Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Yusei Kikuchi, and Justin Turner, among others. General manager Ross Atkins apologized to the fans for the team’s position as sellers at the deadline, acknowledging the disappointment and expressing a commitment to improving in the future.
Despite the changes to their roster, the Blue Jays will be looking to bounce back and put on a strong performance in the series finale. Outfielder Joey Loperfido, acquired in the trade for Kikuchi, is set to make his debut with the team. However, the Blue Jays will have to make adjustments to their lineup following an injury to catcher Alejandro Kirk, who left Tuesday’s game with a left elbow contusion.
Pitching will be a key factor in the game, with Grayson Rodriguez taking the mound for the Orioles. Rodriguez, who has been impressive this season with a 12-4 record and a 3.82 ERA, will look to build on his recent success and lead the Orioles to victory. On the other side, Paolo Espino will be starting for the Blue Jays, aiming to make an impact in his third major league outing of the season.
As both teams prepare for the series finale, fans can expect an exciting matchup between two competitive teams looking to end the series on a high note. With new faces in the clubhouse and a renewed focus on the game, the Orioles and Blue Jays will be ready to battle it out on the field.
