Jays’ Stroman throwing without pain
DUNEDIN If you’ve followed along with Marcus Stroman through the off-season, you’re well aware a case of mild shoulder inflammation is unlikely to hold him back for long.
Stroman played catch painfree for a second consecutive day Friday and, according to general manager Ross Atkins, a start in the opening series of the season isn’t out of the question.
“I don’t think it’s out of the realm that it could be the first or the 10th game (of the season),” Atkins said Friday. “We’ll know much more over the next 10 days.
“He’s thrown twice and we’re going to start long-toss to get extended. He feels great and with this kind of thing, you would know right away if something was wrong.”
Atkins is well aware of Stroman’s off-season work ethic.
“We’re not there yet to say the coast is clear, but we feel very good about being able to say that relatively soon.”
Stroman said he “felt good” after Friday ’s session and is ready to move on to the next step.
OSUNA THE BETTER
Jays closer Roberto Osuna continues to impress as he looks to resume his role as the shutdown man in the bullpen.
Osuna allowed one hit in an inning of work in the Jays’ 8-5 win over Baltimore on Friday and has yet to allow a run in three spring appearances.
The Jays certainly see no evidence of a return of the anxiety issues that cropped up last season, no doubt a contributor in Osuna leading the American League in blown saves.
“I see no signs of it,” manager John Gibbons said Friday. “You know what, I didn’t see any signs of it after maybe a few days’ period last year after it all came up.
“After that, he had what was as good a month that I’ve ever seen him pitch so I think it’s behind him.”
Gibbons cautioned that Osuna is just 23 and has room to improve.
“I think he looks great,” Gibbons said. “He’s a little bit stronger and he’s maturing. It’s easy to forget how young he is.”