We *DID NOT* Expect This To Happen…. | Blue Jays Rumours & Breakdown

Locked On Blue Jays - Daily Podcast On The Toronto Blue Jays36mApril 9, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

After a six-game losing streak, the Toronto Blue Jays finally broke through with a win over the Los Angeles Dodgers — a result that brought cautious optimism to a fan base worn down by early-season struggles. While the victory was far from perfect, with ongoing issues in offense, base running, and defense, the team’s ability to win despite flaws signals resilience. Hosts Braden Iwasco and Carter First argue that this win, combined with an upcoming off day, could serve as a crucial mental reset for a roster dealing with injuries, illness, and inconsistent play. They emphasize that good teams don’t just win when everything’s perfect — they win when they’re not, and that’s exactly what the Blue Jays must now prove they can do. The episode dives deep into player performances, spotlighting Davis Schneider’s improved plate discipline and the critical role of pitching coach Pete Walker in reshaping the staff’s approach, while questioning whether key players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer are still finding their rhythm. Ultimately, the team’s identity — playing 'Toronto Blue Jays baseball' — remains the central challenge as they aim to rebuild momentum. The Blue Jays’ offensive struggles are stark: just 1-for-19 with the bases loaded, poor pitch selection, and missed opportunities on the base paths. Yet, the team’s pitching, especially in high-leverage moments, has shown flashes of brilliance, with Dylan Cease and Louis Varland delivering under pressure.

Key Takeaways
1

The Blue Jays' 1-for-19 performance with the bases loaded highlights a critical offensive breakdown that must improve to sustain success.

2

Davis Schneider’s use of the ABS system and disciplined plate approach is a rare positive sign in an otherwise struggling offense.

3

Pete Walker’s behind-the-scenes work in adjusting pitch mixes across the rotation is a key reason the Blue Jays’ pitching has remained effective despite injuries.

4

The off day after a win is not a setback — it’s a necessary mental reset for a team that needs to rebuild confidence after a brutal early stretch.

5

George Springer’s struggles stem more from timing and front-foot mechanics than pitch selection, suggesting a technical fix rather than a mental one.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
5 min

Blue Jays Break Losing Streak with Dodgers Win

It's not been a good stretch, but the Blue Jays do break out of it. A lot to talk about, right? Where do our feelings stand now?

Highlight
5:00
5 min

The Off Day as a Mental Reset

This team needs a day to go get their mental back. And I know a bunch of them were at the Leafs game... it takes your mind off baseball for a night.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Offensive Struggles: Clutch Hitting and Pitch Selection

The Blue Jays are 1-for-19 with the bases loaded, exposing a critical flaw in clutch performance. Hosts analyze poor swing decisions and lack of patience as root causes.

15:00
5 min

Player Spotlight: Davis Schneider and George Springer

David Schneider now has the ability to use the ABS system. We know how well he knows the zone, and now putting it on display.

Highlight
20:00
5 min

Pitching Resilience and Pete Walker’s Impact

Pete Walker probably doesn't get enough credit for what he's able to do year after year after year. But he's obviously a dog.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
Pete Walker probably doesn't get enough credit for what he's able to do year after year after year after year. But he's obviously
Carter First36:08
Viral: 85.0
this season with six strikeouts with the bases loaded. That's horrible. And that's something that we're missing from last year.
Braden Iwasco16:21
Viral: 83.0
David Schneider now has the ability to use the ABS system. We know how well he knows the zone, and now putting it on display.
Braden Iwasco27:17
Viral: 76.0
Speakers

Hosts

Braden IwascoCarter First
Topics Discussed
peter walker coaching impact95%pitching staff adjustments92%blue jays season start90%clutch hitting performance88%off day strategy85%vladimir guerro jr. performance80%george springer swing issues75%base running mistakes70%
People & Brands

carter first

person

14xNeutral

braden iwasco

person

12xNeutral

vladimir guerro jr.

person

12xNeutral

davis schneider

person

11xPositive

peter walker

person

10xPositive

los angeles dodgers

other

10xNeutral

george springer

person

9xNeutral

jeff hoffman

person

9xNeutral

shohei otani

person

8xNeutral

dylan cease

person

7xPositive

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