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Steward Berroa of the Blue Jays set to make MLB debut as starting pitcher against Diamondbacks

Steward Berroa of the Blue Jays set to make MLB debut as starting pitcher against Diamondbacks

July 14, 2024

Outfielder Steward Berroa will make his first major-league start when the Toronto Blue Jays take on the host Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday.

Berroa is slated to play in right field and bat ninth in the order. Regular right fielder George Springer remains in the leadoff spot but will serve as the designated hitter for the series finale heading into the All-Star break.

The 25-year-old Berroa was called up from triple-A Buffalo on July 3 and has appeared in four games as a pinch runner and defensive replacement in the outfield. He has yet to take his first at-bat in the majors.

Berroa has a .296/.387/.456 slash line with eight home runs, 37 RBIs and 30 stolen bases over 66 games this season with Buffalo.

Watch the Blue Jays face the Diamondbacks live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ with the first pitch scheduled at 4:10 p.m. ET / 1:10 p.m. PT.

Steward Berroa, a promising young pitcher in the Toronto Blue Jays organization, is set to make his Major League Baseball debut as a starting pitcher against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 23-year-old Dominican right-hander has been turning heads in the minor leagues with his impressive pitching repertoire and poise on the mound.

Berroa was signed by the Blue Jays as an international free agent in 2016 and has steadily climbed through the ranks of the team’s farm system. He has shown excellent command of his pitches, including a mid-90s fastball, a sharp breaking ball, and a developing changeup. His ability to mix speeds and keep hitters off balance has been a key factor in his success on the mound.

Berroa’s debut comes at a crucial time for the Blue Jays, who are looking to solidify their starting rotation as they push for a playoff spot. With injuries to key pitchers, including ace Hyun Jin Ryu, Berroa has been given the opportunity to showcase his talents at the highest level.

Manager Charlie Montoyo has expressed confidence in Berroa’s abilities, praising his work ethic and mental toughness. “Steward has earned this opportunity with his performance in the minors,” Montoyo said. “He has shown that he has the stuff to compete at this level, and we believe he can help us win games.”

Berroa will face a tough test in his debut against the Diamondbacks, who boast a lineup featuring several dangerous hitters. However, the young pitcher is unfazed by the challenge and is eager to prove himself on the big stage.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Berroa performs in his debut. If he can live up to the hype and pitch well against a tough opponent, he could solidify his spot in the Blue Jays’ rotation for the rest of the season.

Overall, Steward Berroa’s debut is a highly anticipated moment for both himself and Blue Jays fans. With his impressive pitching arsenal and competitive spirit, he has the potential to make a significant impact in his first MLB start.