The Toronto Blue Jays have had their issues with players sustaining consistency this season. But we could see a transition with Matt Chapman in the rest of September. The fact that the big-name players this season have been hot and cold has been frustrating. But the days remaining in September will be crucial. If they can continue to play with urgency, it will help them. There was a lot of energy and urgency in the Boston Red Sox series, speed that was not present against the Texas Rangers. This season, the Blue Jays have swept the Red Sox twice, and it was significant that Chapman was able to come up big for the Jays on September 17th and walk them off.
Matt Chapman and September Baseball
Matt Chapman’s Offense
Matt Chapman walks it off for the Jays! pic.twitter.com/ow0HFd185h
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) September 17, 2023
Chapman’s offense this season at the plate has been inconsistent. But Chapman was able to come out for the Jays against the Red Sox on September 17. He earned two hits in the game. The most important one was a walk-off triple that led Toronto to a 3-2 victory. Fans have been waiting for Chapman’s offense, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. It is unfortunate that Chapman has been out with injuries this season, but his presence in the lineup is important.
If Chapman can continue to remain strong offensively, this will really help the Jays with their playoff push in the Wild Card standings. The rest of September could be big for Chapman if he can continue to be consistent offensively. We already know that Chapman is strong defensively as a third baseman. Chapman could make up for lost time with his offense by continuing to be productive at the plate. This is a time for the regulars to do their part in games. It has been inviting as well to see players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Daulton Varsho stepping it up as well.
Chapman as a Leader
A weekend full of walk-offs is fun! Cool moment for Matt Chapman, who enjoyed a strong performance 1 day after being lifted for a pinch-hitter.
September baseball is wild! #BlueJays
— Thomas Hall (@ThomasHall85) September 17, 2023
September baseball has been a rollercoaster ride. The race in the American League Wild Card has kept everyone on their toes. This is why every win is important, and Matt Chapman discussed this in an interview after the Jays win against the Red Sox. He knows that he needs to continue to step it up, and he wants to help his team make the postseason. Like him and the rest of the Jays players, everyone wants to keep the winning streak going. As a player who has more experience compared to the rookies on the team, Chapman brings a lot as a defensive gem at third base. Luckily, the Jays have options and utility players, and Cavan Biggio has been able to step in and has been solid both offensively and defensively.
Chapman brings a lot to the table, and it’s been unfortunate that he was in a slump offensively this season. Despite being on the IL, he still remains in the top five in the MLB standings for leaders in hitting doubles this season. He has hit 37, which ties with Mookie Betts and Anthony Santander. Matt Chapman definitely has power at the plate, and he, along with many other players, must continue to be disciplined and patient at the plate. There’s been a substantial difference when the Jays have drawn more walks and have not chased pitches at the plate.
Closing Remarks
The rest of September baseball will be very crucial for the Blue Jays as the end of the regular season is almost here. While the their season has been frustrating, there’s also been a lot of excitement. It is helpful to have Chapman healthy and back in the Jays lineup. His performance will be important for the team as they are set to hit the road and face the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays. If he can continue racking up doubles for the Jays while doing his part defensively, it will make fans excited. Everyone knows what they are capable of, and having your big-league experienced players step up when it means the most is always significant.
Main Photo Credits: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
