The Toronto Blue Jays faced the Baltimore Orioles earlier today, aiming to win the series before a three-game set against the Tampa Bay Rays over the holiday weekend.
Yusei Kikuchi, one of the team’s most reliable starters this season, pitched 4 1/3 innings, throwing 88 pitches. He allowed six hits, one walk, and one earned run from a solo home run by Jordan Westburg while striking out nine batters, including notable players like Adley Rutschman and Ryan Mountcastle. Gunnar Henderson was the only player to reach base on a walk from Kikuchi.
Despite Kikuchi’s strong performance, the Blue Jays lost due to late-game heroics from Rutschman and a weak Toronto offense. Kikuchi has had an impressive start to the season, a significant turnaround since signing a three-year deal in the 2021/2022 offseason.
He had struggled in 2022 with a 5.19 ERA and a 5.2 BB/9, leading to a late-season demotion to the bullpen. However, he bounced back in 2023, securing a rotation spot and finishing with a 3.85 ERA and a 2.6 BB/9 over 167 2/3 innings.
This season, Kikuchi has improved further, with a 2.60 ERA in 52 innings, 55 strikeouts, and only 10 walks. He has struck out seven or more batters in five starts and allowed three or more runs in only two starts. Since the 2023 All-Star Game, he has ranked highly in several metrics, including a 3.8 fWAR and a 2.72 FIP.
Kikuchi’s Statcast rankings are also impressive, with high ratings in pitching run value and breaking run value. His curveball and slider have been particularly effective.
Initially seen as a questionable signing, Kikuchi’s performance in this contract year has elevated his status, making him a potential candidate for a qualifying offer.
For now, the Blue Jays rely on Kikuchi to keep games close as their offense struggles, evidenced by today’s loss, bringing their record to 19-23.
Kikuchi’s future with the team remains uncertain as he approaches free agency, but his contributions this season have been vital.
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