BREAKING: Blue Jays Alum Yusei Kikuchi Circles Calendar for Pitching Matchup Against Former Teammates, Embraces Struggling Angels Role
ANAHEIM, Calif. – In a emotional reunion, former Blue Jays pitcher Yusei Kikuchi will take the mound tonight against his former teammates, a moment he’s been eagerly awaiting since signing a three-year, $63 million deal with the Angels last winter. Kikuchi, who left Toronto after a memorable 1.5 years, admitted to circling the calendar for this series and is thrilled to face off against familiar faces like Danny Jansen, Bo Bichette, and Jordan Romano.
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Yusei Kikuchi Circles Toronto Matchup, Reflects on Blue Jays Bonds in Exclusive Interview
Four Months After Departure, Former Blue Jay Pitcher Faces Former Teammates
ANAHEIM, Calif. – The familiar faces of Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt led the way for Blue Jays players and staff towards the third base dugout at Angel Stadium on Tuesday. Their mission? To reconnect with a familiar rival – Yusei Kikuchi, now sporting Angel red after signing a three-year, $63 million deal last winter.
Reminiscing About Toronto & Bonding with Teammates
Over the course of two and a half years with the Blue Jays, Kikuchi formed enduring friendships with players like Danny Jansen, Bo Bichette, Jordan Romano, Alek Manoah, and Trevor Richards. So, when he learned he’d be pitching against his former team this week, he wasted no time circling the date on his calendar.
Pro Tip:
Kikuchi’s bond with his Toronto teammates mirrored that of the 2020 World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers, who were praised for their strong clubhouse chemistry.
Mutual Interest, Different Paths
After a mid-season trade to Houston last year, Kikuchi and the Blue Jays expressed mutual interest in a potential reunion this offseason. However, the southpaw disclosed that he didn’t receive a formal offer from Toronto. The Blue Jays ultimately signed Max Scherzer to bolster their rotation.
Struggling Stars, Growing Pains
The Blue Jays have struggled to duplicate last year’s success, with stars like Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. underperforming at the plate. Max Scherzer hasn’t been the dominant force they’d hoped for, either. Meanwhile, Kikuchi and the Angels find themselves near the bottom of the American League West standings, battling their own early-season woes.
Kikuchi’s Perspective: “I Can Be Better”
Through seven starts, Kikuchi has posted a 4.21 ERA with 33 strikeouts and 19 walks. He’s been effective, albeit not up to his own lofty standards.
Did You Know?
Kikuchi’s best season with the Blue Jays saw him post a 3.30 ERA and notch 154 strikeouts. He’s proven capable of more – and he knows it.
Angels’ Manager on Taylor Ward: “He’s Still Taylor Ward”
Before Tuesday’s game, Angels manager Ron Washington defended his decision to keep struggling outfielder Taylor Ward in the top of the lineup, comparing it to the Blue Jays’ approach with Anthony Santander.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why keep struggling players in the lineup?
A: Managers often maintain faith in their established players, like Ward or Santander, hoping they’ll find form. Promoting unproven replacements lacks long-term benefits, as Washington explained.
Looking Ahead: Kikuchi vs Blue Jays
Tonight’s matchup features a familiar face in an unfamiliar uniform. After embracing the Blue Jays’ embrace, Kikuchi’s Angels will face his former teammates in Toronto. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell.
What’s Next?
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