Blue Jays' offence reverts to its inoffensive ways in loss to host Tampa Bay Rays
The Blue Jays were a hit during a 5-4 homestand on the strength of their ability to hit homers or produce in clutch moments.
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Coming off a series sweep of the San Diego Padres, one would think momentum was on the Jays' side as they began a three-game set Friday night against the host Tampa Bay Rays.
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No timely hits would be summoned on a night featuring so few hits by the visitors, the Jays drew eight walks and yet they managed to push across only one run.
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Both teams played well defensively.
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Offensively, Tampa needed two swings to produce its three runs.
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The following are three takeaways in the wake of a Jays' 3-1 loss to an AL East rival that dropped Toronto's record to 25-25, while Tampa improved to 24-26.
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1. BOTTOMS UP
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One of the most understated areas involves the team's bottom of the order, a collection of utility players who have, to their credit, stepped up in big moments.
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Nathan Lukes immediately comes to mind.
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The fact he even reached base speaks to how well Lukes has been swinging the bat.
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The fact he was thrown out highlighted a recurring team deficiency.
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Of the Jays' four hits, three came from the team's bottom of the order, which consisted of Ernie Clement, Jonatan Clase, who had a double, and Lukes.
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Following three straight walks in the seventh inning, Clase hit into a double play as the Jays finally scored.
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2. LAUER POWER
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When seven relievers are used in an 11-inning game, the next day's starter is asked to provide some degree of length.
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Eric Lauer's task was pretty simple, but pitching in the big leagues, even when the backdrop is a minor-league ballpark, is replete with complications.
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