And while the fans didn’t get most of the changes that we wanted (starting pitching, I’m looking at you), we do get a whole new season with enough reasons to be excited for the 2014 baseball season.
1) Spring Training games on SportsNet!
Baseball on TV is baseball on TV, don’t be picky! There are 11 games on the SN schedule and I can’t wait to watch as many of them as possible. Without compromising my work of course.
2) Jose Reyes is Healthy!
When Reyes was lost to that gross ankle injury in Kansas City last year we all knew it was bad, but we didn’t know that it would essentially rob us of an entire season of what Jose Reyes is really capable of. With his wheels ready to go, the top of the Blue Jays lineup just got a whole lot more effective.
2 b) So is Brett Lawrie!
I’ve ripped on Brett before, but he is a big part of what the lineup needs and with him healthy on the left side of the infield with Reyes, the pitchers are going to be in good hands. If Brett can be patient at the plate and hit the way he is capable, he’s in for a good season. And we would all like that.
3) Munenori Kawasaki Will Only be a Short Drive Away in Buffalo!
I pray that we don’t have a major injury situation that brings Muni back to Toronto, but if we do need him, his big smile is just a short trip away. How can you not love this guy?
4) Adam Lind’s Beard!
No comment necessary. Just look at it.
5) Melky Cabrera is in Shape!
We’ve got Melky for 1 more year, and after the spinal tumor was removed, he seems healthy and in shape and ready for action. And he looks like it too. Here’s hoping those legs have some spring and his bat is ready to show us all why AA signed him in the first place?
6) RA Dickey is Pitching Opening Day!
Again, healthier than the start of last season, and with good numbers in Tampa, I like the choice of the knuckleballer to start the real season for the Toronto 9. R.A. has a great opportunity to turn things around in 2014. His 2013 2nd half was a success when you look at the numbers, and I am very much hoping that we see that guy all season long.
7) Jose Bautista’s Bats!
And what he’s going to do with them. I can not wait to see Joey Bats hit the ball hard, on a line, into the 2nd deck. Often. Jose needs to anchor this lineup with Edwin at the 3-4 spots. 43 home runs, 112 rbi and a bunch of walks from Jose Bautista would make me a happy Blue Jays fan.
So… 7 reasons down and 162 regular season games to come.
Fingers crossed that we get the season we were all hoping for in 2013.
It could happen.
Go Jays Go!
Spring Training is in full swing and the Blue Jays are getting ready for action.
