It’s time the Jays look at outside options for struggling offence

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As the calendar gets set to flip to June, it’s a good time to evaluate the Blue Jays. 

It seems clear that the starting pitching is playoff-calibre. Kevin Gausman is an ace and a worthy replacement for AL Cy Young Award winner Robbie Ray. Alek Manoah has quickly become a top starter as well. Jose Berrios has been a bit up and down, but at times has shown flashes of brilliance. Hyun Jin Ryu has had a couple of good outings since his return from the injured list. Newcomer Yusei Kikuchi has also had a couple of bobbles, but he has also shown why the Jays were so willing to give him a three-year deal. 

The bullpen is above average. Jordan Romano is emerging as one of the better closers in the American League. Romano has been a bit overworked through the first two months because of the number of close games the Jays have played. Jays manager Charlie Montoyo has to take the wins when he can get them, but I’m sure he would like to coast to some victories instead of sweating them out at the end. 

The poor production from the Jays’ offence so far this season has been well-documented. Toronto is the worst hitting team in all of baseball with runners in scoring position (.181) and have a run differential of minus-4 heading into play on Friday. The lack of production has been contagious, and the negative energy has spread across the clubhouse. Jays’ hitters look like they are competing against themselves rather than the opposition.

Montoyo has tried all the standard moves: changing the lineup around, giving guys a day off, scheduling extra batting practice, cancelling batting practice, etc. Now it is time for Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro to get involved. They shouldn’t talk hitting or try to fix the