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Blue Jays' Kevin Gausman Ready to Tame Diamondbacks at Rogers Centre Showdown

First Inning


As the Blue Jays prepare to host the Diamondbacks at Rogers Centre, all eyes will be on Kevin Gausman, the starting pitcher for the Birds. Over his last three outings, Gausman has demonstrated impressive control and strikeout ability. With an ERA of 7.2 and a WHIP of 1.6, he has managed to keep opposing batters in check while maintaining a K/9 rate of 12.6. His performance against the Phillies on June 13 was particularly noteworthy, where he struck out batters with precision, showcasing his potential to dominate early in games.


Aug 22, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Brandon Belt (13) runs home after hitting a two run home run in the tenth inning against the Baltimore Orioles  at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The Jays will also rely on their offensive lineup to provide early support for Gausman. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., playing first base, has been a consistent performer with a batting average of .500 in one of the recent games against the Phillies. His ability to get on base and drive in runs could set the tone for Toronto's offense from the outset.


On the other side, the Snakes will look to their ace Zac Gallen to counter Gausman's efforts. Gallen's recent performances have been solid, with an ERA of 5.684 and a WHIP of 1.5789 across his last three starts. He possesses a strong K/9 rate of 8.523, making him a formidable opponent for any lineup.


Middle Innings


As we move into the middle innings, expect Andrés Giménez and Bo Bichette to play pivotal roles for Toronto in both defense and offense. Giménez has shown reliability at second base with flawless fielding percentages over recent games, while Bichette's presence at shortstop adds depth to their defensive setup.


Offensively, Alejandro Kirk could be an X-factor for Toronto during these innings despite struggling recently with an average hovering around .000 in two games against Philadelphia. However, Kirk’s potential to turn things around remains high given his previous track record as a clutch hitter.


For Arizona, Ketel Marte stands out as a key player during this phase of the game due to his versatility at second base combined with steady hitting stats—averaging .333 over one game against San Diego Padres earlier this month—making him essential in maintaining momentum through these crucial periods.


Late Innings


In late innings scenarios where games are often decided by narrow margins or critical plays occur frequently; relief pitchers like Erik Swanson become vital assets for Toronto’s bullpen strategy due largely because despite having faced challenges such as high ERAs (54) previously recorded within past matchups - they still possess potential upside when called upon under pressure situations which can ultimately sway outcomes favorably towards home team advantage if executed correctly!


Meanwhile backfield support provided via players such as George Springer who holds responsibility covering right field duties alongside Jonatan Clase stationed leftwardly should ensure adequate coverage preventing any unexpected breakthroughs occurring courtesy visiting squad members attempting last-ditch efforts aimed securing victory themselves instead!


For Arizona however it’ll be paramount ensuring closer Ryan Thompson delivers effective closing pitches capable shutting down opposition entirely thereby preserving lead gained earlier stages thereby guaranteeing successful outcome achieved overall end result desired most ardently by fans alike eagerly anticipating triumphant return home following successful road trip undertaken recently culminating final showdown scheduled take place soon enough indeed!


Fans can catch this thrilling matchup between Blue Jays versus Diamondbacks live from Rogers Centre located downtown Toronto Ontario Canada scheduled begin promptly June 19th precisely fifteen minutes past three afternoon local time broadcast exclusively via SNET network available nationwide ensuring everyone opportunity witness firsthand exciting action unfold before very eyes indeed! Share your thoughts predictions below let us know who think might emerge victorious come end day!

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