After earning the reputation of being one of the best left-handed relievers in MLB from 2013-15, Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Brett Cecil has endured a tumultuous season in 2016.
Set to hit free agency at season’s end, Cecil has pitched to a disappointing 1-7 record with a 4.82 ERA over 41 appearances. He was also hampered by a triceps injury early in the year that forced him to miss over a month of action.
Despite Cecil’s struggles, Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins expressed confidence the former all-star will be a key cog in the bullpen as the playoff race heats up.
“I think Cecil has turned a corner,” Atkins said Friday morning on The Jeff Blair Show on Sportsnet 590 The Fan. “I know his results have not indicated that but his stuff is better and he’s been in this environment before, he’s extremely motivated. I feel like there’s a very good chance he could be a very good option for us down the stretch.
“Cecil’s velocity is better, his breaking ball has looked better, subjectively. His usage of his changeup has been something that has almost hurt him, but the fact that it’s there and is a weapon to be used and how he uses it and how he uses certain pitches I think is something he’s going to be focused on and looking to do a better job with.”
The pitches themselves seem to be coming along, but Atkins also stated the importance of Cecil’s experience pitching in high-leverage situations and thriving. Just one year ago, the 30-year-old did not surrender an earned run over the final three months of the season.
“Really what gives us the most confidence is track record,” Atkins said. “Over time, if he continues to get the ball and John Gibbons will continue to use him, then I think there are bright days ahead for him.”
Atkins revealed the Blue Jays were in discussions with a number of teams in an attempt to land another left-handed bullpen arm, and even additional right-handers and position players. Ultimately nothing came to fruition and Toronto will have to rely on Cecil and other players already on the roster or in the minor-league system as they set their sights on a second consecutive American League East crown.
“We talked to a number of teams about left-handed relief options, even other right-handers and other position players as well,” Atkins said. “I think we have guys that we feel good about facing left-handed hitters that are right-handed pitchers. Joaquin Benoit, Grilli, Osuna, those guys have done very well against left-handed hitters. We’re glad to be adding Aaron Loup and I think we have another option or two in the minor leagues that we’ll still consider.”
