Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah had an impressive 2022 season, with a 2.24 ERA and 16 wins that earned him a spot as a finalist for the AL Cy Young award.
However, his performance took a nosedive in 2023. He struggled to find his rhythm, leading him to be sent down the Major League and then Triple-A to work on his skills and physical conditioning.
Although he eventually returned to the major league, his overall numbers were disappointing, with a 5.87 ERA in 87.1 innings. Reports also indicated that his attitude was not always ideal.
Despite his struggles, Manoah has arrived at Jays camp determined to stay in the majors and help the Toronto Blue Jays win the World Series.
He is aware that Triple-A does not award World Series rings, emphasizing his goal.
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There is hope that he will be given another chance to be part of the team’s rotation, given his previous impressive performances.
However, he needs to address some issues and it is hoped that he has used the offseason to make improvements.
The Blue Jays’ camp recently opened, and Manoah’s first bullpen session drew attention. Media and photographers gathered to capture footage, while coaches and staff watched as Manoah showcased his skills.
According to Blue Jays manager John Schneider, Manoah’s delivery and stuff looked promising during the session, with his fastball showing movement and his slider taking shape.
For Manoah, this was his first public appearance since his difficult 2023 season, during which he was twice sent to the minors and finished with a disappointing ERA.
Despite the challenges, Manoah expressed gratitude for the learning experience and has worked hard in the offseason to regain his form.
He aims to be a dominant starter and help the Blue Jays win games.
Last season was challenging for Manoah as he struggled with self-doubt and faced setbacks. Despite this, he acknowledges the growth it brought him.
His difficulties began during the offseason, where he did not perform at his best and entered spring training with uncertainties.
Throughout the season, Manoah constantly sought adjustments and struggled to find his rhythm. He also found himself overthinking on the mound, focusing on mechanics and outcomes rather than attacking the strike zone.
Reflecting on this period, Manoah can hardly recognize his past self and is relieved to have moved on from that mindset.
After being optioned to Triple-A Buffalo and dealing with a right shoulder injury, Manoah dedicated himself to improving during the offseason.
With the guidance of his brother, a personal trainer, he focused on enhancing his strength and conditioning.
Additionally, his wife, a certified nutritionist, assisted him in adopting healthier eating habits.
Manoah’s commitment to self-improvement will enable him to contribute to his team’s success and strive for a World Series victory.
Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah has been making waves during spring training with his improved physique and conditioning.
Manoah’s slimmed-down appearance has caught the attention of his teammates and coaches, who have noticed the positive impact on his performance on the mound.
The key for Manoah has been the ability to move freely without having to force his mechanics or generate extra power.
This has allowed him to focus on his delivery and pitch with more confidence.
In addition to his physical improvements, Manoah has arrived at camp with a healthy state of mind.
Pitching coach Pete Schneider has observed that Manoah looks like his old self and is excited to see more of his personality come out during games.
The Blue Jays are hopeful that Manoah will secure the fifth spot in the rotation, and general manager Ross Atkins has expressed confidence in his abilities.
Manoah is not putting too much pressure on himself and is determined to compete against himself and be the best version of himself.
He sees himself as a member of the rotation and wants to help the team win a World Series.
Despite the challenges he faced last year, including missing out on the postseason, Manoah has received words of encouragement and support from his teammates.
He has learned not to lose track of who he is and is now focused on the upcoming season.
Overall, Manoah’s improved conditioning and mindset are setting him up for success.
If he can return to form, his inclusion in the rotation would be a significant boost for the Blue Jays.
Manoah is determined to be healthy and contribute to the team’s success.
Fans reacted as follows.
Did they give them out in the Florida complex league?
— CCG ALTON (@CCGALTON) February 16, 2024
He means onion rings
— Jordan Moore (@iJordanMoore) February 16, 2024
bro is saying this while on the Jays pic.twitter.com/tgqCe8HsxD
— 𝑰𝑺𝑨𝑰𝑨𝑯 (@Zayuh1985) February 16, 2024
A) get in playing condition
B) stop running your mouth— Andrew Coates (@andrewacoates) February 16, 2024
He’s going to have a significant bounce back season. 😤🔥
— Baseball Fans of America (@BballFansAmer17) February 16, 2024
Really hoping Manoah can get back to form this year
— Vincenzo M. Santoro (@theSanVincenzo) February 16, 2024
They don’t give them out in Florida Coast League either
— Try That In a Small Town (@nicnackodiak) February 16, 2024
Fat boy wants a ring pop
— Edd B (@IIBarciaII) February 17, 2024
He wants this ring pic.twitter.com/uaRol82KDC
— YanksZoo (@TheYanksZoo) February 16, 2024
He’s not fat anymore. pic.twitter.com/6RsGfYjtU4
— VLAD JR IS A COVER ATHLETE!!!!! (@toronchokefan1) February 16, 2024
CC’s hand me down ring
— Ian J (@inbury) February 16, 2024
