Blue Jays just need these three Hitters to step up and turn things around

The Blue Jays have stumbled into a historically poor start with their batting, yet manager John Schneider hasn’t reached a point where he’s considering significant changes to the lineup.

Disappointing performances from Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and George Springer throughout April have dragged down what was already considered an average lineup at best. Their lack of production has been glaring, resulting in the Jays ranking near the bottom of the league in all major offensive categories.

With an average of just 3.57 runs per game, their lowest since 1981, and a streak of scoring five runs or fewer in 19 consecutive games, the Jays are facing considerable offensive challenges. These issues were once again evident in a recent 4-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, where the top three batters, including Daulton Varsho, struggled, managing only one hit among them.

Despite the ongoing struggles, there are no imminent plans to adjust the top of the lineup. This trio represents the core group the Jays have committed to, even amidst a five-game losing streak.

Schneider emphasized his confidence in their abilities, stating, “It’s a matter of time. They’re our three best hitters… That’s how we’re built, and we’re confident they’re going to get rolling.”

While Varsho has shown early promise, his potential impact won’t significantly change if he’s moved up in the lineup. Simply shifting Springer out of the leadoff spot won’t magically transform the team into a top-hitting lineup.

Criticism of Schneider’s lineup choices is common on social media, but the bottom line remains: the Jays’ fortunes hinge on the production of their top three hitters.

One might argue for shaking things up simply for the sake of change, but such a move would likely be more symbolic than an actual long-term solution. A case in point could be recalled when Schneider dropped Bichette to seventh in the batting order back in August 2022, only to see him quickly return to a prominent spot within 10 days.

Guerrero’s .647 on-base plus slugging (OPS) is nearly .200 points below his career average, while Bichette’s stands even lower at .571, a far cry from his career low of .802. Nevertheless, Schneider remains steadfast in his belief that both players will find their form again. However, whether they can do so in time to offset the team’s poor start remains uncertain.

Jays lefty Yusei Kikuchi expressed confidence that veterans like Bichette and Guerrero have the experience to weather such rough patches and will bounce back soon.

With a major shakeup unlikely, the question arises: what’s the solution? One option could be calling up prospect Orelvis Martinez, who has been performing well at Triple-A Buffalo. However, given that second base isn’t a pressing concern with Cavan Biggio and Davis Schneider providing solid production, this may not be the answer.

Other potential changes, like benching struggling outfielder Kevin Kiermaier in favor of Schneider, have already occurred due to Kiermaier’s placement on the injured list. However, swapping out Isiah Kiner-Falefa for Ernie Clement or recently promoted Addison Barger might offer only a modest improvement, unlikely to significantly impact the season’s outcome.

Ultimately, the fate of the team rests on the shoulders of Guerrero, Bichette, and Springer. Should they rediscover their form, the Jays might stay competitive enough to make impactful additions at the trade deadline. If not, it could be a frustrating year ahead.

While the manager remains encouraged by improved swings from the top hitters, the lack of tangible results is evident, with the Jays struggling to score runs consistently. Whether a lineup change would make a difference remains uncertain, but what’s clear is that until the top hitters start producing, the team’s chances remain slim, regardless of batting order adjustments.