Nick Sandlin, acquired in the four-player trade with the Cleveland Guardians, is proving to be a valuable addition to the Toronto Blue Jays' bullpen. His sidearm delivery and diverse pitch arsenal are expected to make a significant impact on the team's relief efforts.
Andres Gimenez was the headliner of the four-player trade that sent him from the Cleveland Guardians to the Toronto Blue Jays last December. But right-hander Nick Sandlin, acquired in the same deal, is emerging as a valuable asset to Toronto 's revamped bullpen. 'He's kind of the underrated guy of the bullpen,' Blue Jays manager John Schneider said on Saturday. 'I was just as thrilled to get him as we were Andres.' Sandlin posted an impressive 8-0 record and a 3.
75 earned-run average in 68 appearances last season. He struck out 68 batters over 57 2/3 innings and held opposing hitters to a .222 average. 'He's really useful,' Schneider noted. 'Low maintenance and understands exactly what he needs to do to be good.' The sidearmer's unique delivery and arsenal of pitches, including a strong splitter, slider, and mid-90s fastball, make him a particularly effective look-changer in the bullpen. Sandlin, who made his major league debut with Cleveland in 2021, said, 'I try to get down in there as much as I can at this point. It’s mostly sidearm, just trying to create a little deception, a little something different for hitters to have to pick up the ball from.' Sandlin, a 67th overall draft pick in 2018, spent his entire big-league career with Cleveland before the trade. The Guardians received first baseman Spencer Horwitz and outfield prospect Nick Mitchell in the deal. 'After a couple days went by, I just started to get excited for what’s to come,' Sandlin said. 'I’m happy to be here and I’m ready to get rolling.' Meanwhile, Gimenez bolsters Toronto's middle infield, forming a solid core alongside Bo Bichette, who is expected to return from injury this season. Gimenez has won three consecutive Gold Glove awards at second base. 'He’s somebody that pitchers love to have behind them,' Sandlin said. 'He’s just a very complete player.' Last year, Toronto's bullpen struggled mightily, finishing last in the American League in ERA at 4.82. With the addition of Sandlin, the Blue Jays are looking to bolster their relief efforts. Other high-leverage options include Jeff Hoffman, Yimi Garcia, Chad Green, and Erik Swanson. Among the relievers vying for a spot on the big-league roster are Zach Pop, Ryan Burr, and Nick Robertson. 'I thought we did a good job of adding guys that have great track records of success,' Green said. 'Obviously Hoffman and getting Yimi back is huge and Sandlin (too), I thought we added some good pieces.' Sandlin's sidearm delivery, combined with his variety of pitches, adds a unique element to the Blue Jays' bullpen. 'It’s different and that’s what you want in a bullpen,' Green said. 'You don’t want eight guys doing the exact same thing. I think that’s great that he’s different than the rest of us.
BLUE JAYS NICK SANDLIN CLEVELAND GUARDIANS BULLPEN BASEBALL MLB TORONTO TRADE
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Blue Jays' New Reliever Nick Sandlin Brings Unique Skills and Excitement to BullpenNick Sandlin, acquired in December's trade with the Cleveland Guardians, is bringing a unique sidearm delivery and impressive track record to the Toronto Blue Jays' bullpen. Manager John Schneider praises Sandlin as a 'very useful' and 'low maintenance' pitcher who excels in his middle-inning role. Sandlin joins a bullpen that aims to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season and features a mix of established veterans and promising young arms.
Read more »
Blue Jays' Sandlin brings 'unique' arm angle to bullpenNick Sandlin, acquired by the Toronto Blue Jays in a four-player trade with Cleveland, is expected to add much-needed variety and depth to the team's bullpen. The sidearmer impressed in his rookie campaign with the Guardians and boasts a strong splitter that he uses with a slider and a mid-90s fastball. His unique arm angle makes him a particularly appealing option as a look-changer on the mound.
Read more »
Today in Blue Jays History: Jays Trade for GrichukAnd Sign George Springer
Read more »
The Blue Jays Trade and Springer's DeclineThis article analyzes the impact of the Blue Jays' 2016 trade that sent Greene and Leone to the Cardinals for Grichuk. It also examines George Springer's performance after signing a hefty contract with the team in 2019.
Read more »
Blue Jays Acquire Outfielder Myles Straw From GuardiansThe Toronto Blue Jays have acquired outfielder Myles Straw from the Cleveland Guardians in a trade.
Read more »
Remembering Brad Fullmer's Birthday and a Blue Jays Trade That Time ForgotThis article celebrates Brad Fullmer's 50th birthday and the 23rd anniversary of his trade to the Angels. It explores Fullmer's career with the Expos, Blue Jays, Angels, and Rangers, highlighting his strengths and weaknesses as a player. The article also delves into the context of the trade with the Angels, analyzing its impact on both teams and Fullmer's subsequent success.
Read more »