Bassitt Emerges as Frontrunner to Start Blue Jays’ ALDS Opener
Toronto, ON – As the Blue Jays prepare for their American League division Series matchup this Saturday, right-hander Chris Bassitt has positioned himself as the likely choice to start Game 1, according to team preparations. Securing the AL East title not only granted Toronto a first-round bye but also guaranteed home-field advantage throughout the AL playoffs – a factor where Bassitt has demonstrably excelled.
the importance of the opening game cannot be overstated. A victory sets the tone for the entire series, providing a notable momentum swing.The Blue Jays are prioritizing putting their strongest possible pitcher on the mound for that crucial first contest,and Bassitt’s performance at Rogers Center this season makes him the leading candidate.
Bassitt boasts an unblemished 8-0 record in 16 starts at home this season. He is one of only two Blue Jays starters with over 100 strikeouts at Rogers Centre – trailing only Kevin Gausman – and the sole Toronto pitcher to maintain an ERA below 3.00 in home games.
While gausman has been considered the team’s ace, his home record stands at 5-5. Recent performances at Rogers Centre have been particularly challenging for Gausman, who allowed 17 hits and eight earned runs over his last two starts in Toronto, spanning just over nine innings.
Rookie Trey Yesavage, fresh off a remarkably successful Major League debut under high pressure, is also under consideration. Though, it is indeed considered unlikely he will be tapped to start the series opener.
The Blue Jays will learn their opponent – either the New York Yankees or the Boston Red Sox – by Thursday. Nonetheless, the team is focused on selecting the pitcher who provides the best opportunity for a Game 1 victory.
