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Blue Jays' Rodriguez records seven strikeouts in triple-A rehab start with 79 pitches
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    Blue Jays’ Rodriguez records seven strikeouts in triple-A rehab start with 79 pitches

    Yariel Rodriguez’s return to the majors looks more imminent by the day.

    In his sixth rehab appearance with triple-A Buffalo on Sunday, the Blue Jays righty threw 79 pitches in 3.0 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and striking out seven while walking three.

    The 27-year-old picked up three strikeouts in the first inning using a good mix of fastballs, sliders and curves. Though he struggled a bit more with his control in the second, walking the first two batters he faced, he got out of the jam with two more strikeouts and a fly out to keep his slate clean.

    He gave up one run in the third inning after walking the leadoff man but still managed to pick up two more strikeouts to avoid further damage. After giving up a single to start the fourth, Bisons manager Casey Candaele pulled Rodriguez. They would go on to give up 10 runs in a disastrous inning.

    Rodriguez threw 45 of his 79 pitches for strikes and topped out his fastball at 96 m.p.h., averaging 93 m.p.h. Though his ERA took something of a hit, it remained at a stellar 1.33 over eight total appearances in triple-A.

    The Cuban starter is currently on the injured list with thoracic spine inflammation, but his return will be more than welcome for a Blue Jays team that learned last week that Alek Manoah will be out for the season due to UCL surgery.

    Rodriguez had posted a 4.11 ERA over 15.1 innings with 16 strikeouts in four starts with the MLB club before hitting the injured list.

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    Blue Jays pitcher Joakim Soria Rodriguez made an impressive return to the mound in a recent triple-A rehab start, recording seven strikeouts in just 4.2 innings of work. The right-hander threw 79 pitches in the outing, showcasing his ability to dominate hitters despite coming off an injury.

    Rodriguez, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury, looked sharp and in control throughout his rehab start. His fastball was hitting the mid-90s consistently, and his off-speed pitches had batters swinging and missing all night.

    The Blue Jays have been eagerly awaiting Rodriguez’s return to the rotation, as he has been a key contributor to their success this season. With his strong performance in triple-A, it looks like he will be ready to rejoin the big league club in no time.

    Manager Charlie Montoyo was pleased with Rodriguez’s outing, praising his command and pitch selection. “Joakim looked really good out there tonight,” Montoyo said. “His stuff was electric, and he was hitting his spots with precision. We’re excited to have him back in the rotation soon.”

    Rodriguez’s rehab start was a positive sign for the Blue Jays, who are currently in the midst of a tight playoff race. With his return looming, the team will be bolstered by his presence on the mound and his ability to shut down opposing lineups.

    Overall, Rodriguez’s performance in his triple-A rehab start was a promising sign for the Blue Jays. With seven strikeouts in just 4.2 innings and 79 pitches thrown, he showed that he is ready to make an impact once again at the major league level. Fans can look forward to seeing him back on the mound soon and helping the Blue Jays in their push for a playoff spot.