Gibbons says RHP Sanchez key part of Blue Jays rotation
DUNEDIN, Fla. — To have a healthy chance at a playoff spot this season, Blue Jays manager John Gibbons figures Toronto needs a totally healed Aaron Sanchez.
Sanchez was an all-star in 2016 when he went 15-2 with an American League-leading 3.00 ERA. But blisters on the middle finger of his pitching hand caused four stints on the disabled list last year.
The right-hander finished 1-3 with a 4.25 ERA and didn’t pitch after July 19 last year.
“Sanchie, that was a big piece that was missing,” Gibbons said. “He’s coming off the year he won the ERA title. So it’s vital that he pitches for us this year, I think, if we’re going to do anything. Hopefully it doesn’t flare up again on him.”