Patrick Corbin's struggles continued on Friday as the Toronto Blue Jays fell 5-4 to the Texas Rangers at Rogers Centre. The 36-year-old left-hander allowed five earned runs on three singles, a double, and a hit batter over 4 1/3 innings, failing to complete five innings for the fourth consecutive start.
Corbin's Recent Decline
In those four starts, Corbin has surrendered 15 earned runs, posting a 9.20 ERA. Despite being signed as a fifth starter when the Blue Jays faced a pitching shortage, his performance has fallen short of even minimal expectations. Manager John Schneider pulled Corbin after one out in the fifth inning, following a walk to Jake Burger and a two-run homer by Justin Foscue.
The early 5-0 deficit proved insurmountable for the Blue Jays, who mounted a late rally. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. delivered a two-run single in the eighth inning, and Kazuma Okamoto followed with a two-run homer, his 19th of the season, cutting the lead to 5-4. However, Rangers closer Jacob Latz shut the door in the ninth, allowing only a walk.
Eovaldi Dominates
Rangers starter Nathan Eovaldi (8-7) pitched seven scoreless innings, scattering hits and striking out several Blue Jays batters. Toronto put two runners on with one out in both the sixth and seventh innings but failed to score each time. Eovaldi's performance kept the Jays at bay until the bullpen faltered.
Schneider acknowledged Corbin's struggles but noted the team's limited starting pitching options. Max Scherzer is working his way back from injury, but his health remains uncertain. The Blue Jays may need to consider alternatives if Corbin cannot provide a competitive start every fifth day.
Prospect Sean Keys Called Up
According to Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet, infielder Sean Keys, the Blue Jays' 2024 fourth-round pick, is expected to join the team this weekend. Keys, ranked No. 14 on the Jays' prospect chart, will fill the roster spot of George Springer, who is set to go on paternity leave for three days.
Schneider praised Keys, saying, "The power is real. The offence has been really good. He’s been playing a little first and third and has definitely put himself on the radar." Keys has hit 21 home runs this season and could provide a boost to Toronto's lineup.
Roster Moves
The Blue Jays designated Simeon Woods Richardson for assignment on Friday to make room for left-hander Adam Macko, who was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo. Woods Richardson, who had a 7.74 ERA earlier this season, pitched 10 scoreless innings over three appearances with Toronto but walked seven batters. Schneider noted that the bullpen needed a second left-handed option, and Woods Richardson's length was no longer a priority.
Schneider praised Woods Richardson's professionalism, saying, "He provided us some length when we were in desperate need of it. This is just part of the business." If Woods Richardson clears waivers, the Jays hope to use him as a starter in Buffalo.
Injury Update
OF Addison Barger, sidelined since May 10 with right elbow inflammation, visited Rogers Centre on Friday for evaluation. The team will decide on a rehab assignment soon.
The Blue Jays will send right-hander Dylan Cease (4-3, 2.75 ERA) to the mound on Saturday as they aim to snap a three-game losing streak. The Rangers have yet to announce their starter for the 3:07 p.m. game.
