1 Blue Jays player who will make or break 2025 World Series chances

Published: Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 2:18 am

Blue Jays' Playoff Hopes Hinge on Unexpected Pitching Star

The Toronto Blue Jays, currently holding a 70-51 record, are battling for a playoff spot and face a crucial month and a half to solidify their pitching rotation. While the team has a strong core, including All-Star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and ace Kevin Gausman, the performance of pitcher Eric Lauer has emerged as a key factor in their postseason aspirations.

Lauer, a recent addition to the team, has been a revelation, delivering consistent and dominant starts in the second half of the season. His emergence has coincided with the Blue Jays' rise in the standings, providing manager John Schneider with a reliable option at the back end of the rotation. This is particularly important given the uncertainty surrounding other pitchers. Veteran Max Scherzer's age and recent struggles raise concerns about his playoff effectiveness, while Jose Berrios's inconsistency has been a point of concern. The team also acquired Shane Bieber, but his return from injury is uncertain.

Lauer's ability to keep the ball in the ballpark and his consistent performance, with an ERA of 2.82, make him a valuable asset. He provides Schneider with a secure option, capable of delivering five or six solid innings, allowing the bullpen to close out games. His even-keel style of pitching could be particularly beneficial in the high-pressure environment of the playoffs, offering a calming presence for a team with less playoff experience. Lauer's ability to limit home runs and his consistent performance make him a strong candidate to be the number two starter behind Gausman.

BNN's Perspective:

The Blue Jays' success hinges on their ability to maximize their pitching depth. While Gausman is a known quantity, the emergence of Lauer as a reliable starter provides a significant boost. If Lauer can maintain his form, he could be the key to the Blue Jays making a deep playoff run. However, the team must also address the uncertainty surrounding other pitchers and manage their rotation effectively to secure a championship.

Keywords: Blue Jays, Eric Lauer, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, Max Scherzer, Shane Bieber, pitching, playoffs, MLB, Toronto, baseball, rotation, World Series, postseason, American League East, John Schneider, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Full Story