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Blue Jays Veteran Dominating With Bounce Back Season

The time has come where Blue Jays fans are witnessing the George Springer who dominated when he played for the Houston Astros. Since the start of the season, his offensive output has been questioned as he struggled in spring training. But Springer wasn’t the least bit concerned, and now we know why. Over the past couple of seasons, Springer has had his struggles. His resiliency, however, speaks for itself, and he always works hard.

Even when Springer hasn’t been hitting bombs, his walk rate has been impressive. But the one thing that always stands out is his urgency and willingness to compete and win games. Springer has been a huge boost as an offensive outfielder. This boost has been needed with offseason signing Anthony Santander continuing to be on the injury list, and his timetable of return is still up in the air. He is likely going to be on the IL for a portion of time.

 

 

Blue Jays Veteran Turning Heads With Bounce Back Season

How Springer Has Returned To His Roots

Springer is not the same player he was last season, which is why he’s having a bounce-back season. Springer struck out 115 times across 614 plate appearances. His strikeout rate of 18.7 % was the result of him striking out that many times. Springer has looked much more comfortable and confident at the plate. His ability to make adjustments and change his mental approach, while showcasing more power in his hitting, is something fans have been yearning for.

His offensive metrics this season are off the charts. He has an .858 OPS, along with an impressive walk rate of 12.9%. That ranks in the 89th percentile, as well as his chase rate of 20.4%, which ranks in the 92nd percentile. In his last seven games, Springer has been on fire, hitting .440 with 11 RBI and two home runs. Springer’s best game this season came on Canada Day, where he hit his ninth career grand slam and his 100th home run as a Blue Jay. He also recorded seven RBI and two home runs in the Blue Jays’ 12-5 victory over the New York Yankees.

Springer Resurgence

His resurgence has come at a pivotal point where the Blue Jays are looking to become AL East champs. Springer’s powerful swings have demonstrated his ability to go back to his roots and perform as he once did in a Houston Astros uniform. The 35-year-old veteran’s offense has been questioned, and fans felt his remaining with the team was questionable. But he’s proven that his offensive woes are a thing of the past this season. Springer dingers and slams have made him the most beloved Blue Jays player this season. It will be interesting to see if he can continue to ride this high while the Blue Jays look to maintain their dominance in the AL East. If he continues to excel, he could also be moved back to the leadoff spot.

Main Photo Credits: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images

About Vanessa Serrao

Vanessa is a freelance baseball writer for Last Word On Baseball. She is also an author and is pursuing a career in sports journalism. She loves the Toronto Blue Jays, but covers MLB breaking news.

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