Lose two to win one later

I’m starting to think that Cito Gaston’s infamous “lose one to win two later” coaching strategy is turning more into the “lose two now and maybe win one later”. Since June 19th, the Blue Jays have lost twice as many games as they have won with a 10 wins and 20 losses.

Yesterday’s loss was especially deflating because it was the largest lead surrendered in team history. The Jays were cruising along with a very comfortable 8-0 lead going into the 7th when Brian Tallet got into a bit a trouble; a Carlos Pena triple off the outfield wall cleared the bases and Pena eventually scored to make it 9-4. No problem, still a five fun lead!

The wheels really came off in the ninth when Scott Downs was sent in to close it out. Immediately I thought “why isn’t a well-rested Jason Frasor finishing this game?” Downs was roughed up a little the night before and Frasor was working off two days rest. I know Cito wanted to give Downs a chance to redeem himself, but a loss and a blown save in his two previous appearances didn’t exactly sit well.

The rest of the game just went downhill from there; the most depressing part was watching Vernon Wells swing at four straight curveballs to end the bottom of the 11th. It’s true that Vernon Wells loves curveballs as much as a fat kid loves cake.

And the game ended about as badly as it could have; the Jays had the bases loaded with one out and all they needed was a sacrifice fly to tie the game. Aaron Hill struck out and Adam Lind grounded out to end the game. Four hours and thirty minutes of baseball from Section 108 – all of it watch the Jays blow an eight run lead in extras to the Rays.

Positives (yes, there are some!)

The Bautista Appreciation Society is currently accepting applications after Jose gunned down two runners at second base yesterday (really it looked like three, but I think the ump missed the call at second base). After Jose Bautista watched a ground ball sneak between his legs, I think we can all agree that he is best suited in the outfield attempting to throw out aggressive runners like B.J. Upton.

I thought I caught a glimpse of the Melonheads during the game and it turns out that they were in fact in attendance yesterday. Taking a look at this picture actually helps ease the sting of the game a little bit and I think it just might have to be my new desktop background.