Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo throws own pitcher under the bus

Toronto Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo expressed frustration with starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi after another rough outing.

The Jays have lost five straight games and currently sit in the third Wild Card position in the American League, so it’s easy to see where the frustration is coming from.

Just last week, Toronto held an advantage over Boston, which would have had to travel north of the border for said series. Now? The roles have reversed.

On Tuesday night, Kikuchi gave up four earned runs in just over two innings of work against the Oakland Athletics. Toronto was behind the eight ball in the bottom of the first, as well, as Kikuchi gave up two earned runs in the frame. Kikuchi finished his outing with five walks, which is something Montoyo pointed to in his postgame analysis.

“It’s tough to play behind a guy who isn’t throwing strikes,” Montoyo said.

While the Jays manager is technically correct, a line like that will not play well in the clubhouse. Ouch.

Blue Jays: Charlie Montoyo frustrated with Yusei Kikuchi

While Kikuchi has been brutal this season, he’s far from the only Toronto starting pitcher struggling. What about Jose Berrios, who the Jays gave up an arm and a leg to acquire in the first place?

For now, Toronto cannot afford to let Kikuchi start again, as they’re basically punting on their chances before the first pitch. Despite an encouraging start in late June, obviously Kikuchi is not fixed, and needs time with Pete Walker to fix his issues.

Toronto is trying to win now in the meantime.