In a move that came out just after 5 PM eastern, Jon Heyman has reported that the Toronto Blue Jays have traded for Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, Ross Stripling. In return, the Dodgers will receive two players to be named later. Stripling, who was almost traded to the Los Angeles Angels before Angels owner Arte Moreno stepped in, has struggled since his excellent season debut on July 24th. With the trade, the Blue Jays have traded for their third starter in seven days as they got Taijuan Walker last week, and Robbie Ray earlier today.
Jays acquire Ross Stripling from Dodgers for 2 PTBNL
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) August 31, 2020
More Pitching for the Blue Jays
Prior to acquiring Taijuan Walker, the Blue Jays have struggled with their starting pitching. Hyun Jin Ryu has been excellent as he holds a 2.92 ERA, despite not going past the sixth inning. Following that, Tanner Roark has been inconsistent and has yet to pitch more than five innings in any start. In the back-end of the rotation, the Blue Jays have dealt with injuries as top prospect Nate Pearson landed on the 10-day IL with elbow tightness two weeks ago. With the trade for Stripling, the Blue Jays hope that he can get back to his pre-2020 form. Since entering the league in 2016, he has had a sub-four ERA each season. If the Blue Jays get the good Stripling, they could be in position to make a playoff push. The Blue Jays already have a solid lineup that is 11th in baseball in runs scored per game.
Stripling’s Slow Start in 2020
After a dominant start to open the season against the San Francisco Giants, Ross Stripling has struggled. Lots of this has been due to the home run ball, as he has allowed a league-leading 12. His command has also been an issue as he has 11 walks this season. In his season debut, Stripling went seven innings and allowed one run. Since that, Stripling has had a 6.75 ERA and 11 home runs allowed in just 26 and two-thirds innings. The Blue Jays need Stripling to get back on track and go deeper into games if they want to make a strong push for the playoffs.
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