Prospect Robson will control how he prepares himself

RHP Tom Robson (Delta, BC) is back on the mound and as healthy as a Budweiser Clydesdale after an elbow injury. Photo: Callum Ferguson. 

By Callum Ferguson

Toronto Observer

DUNEDIN, Fla. _ Canadian pitcher Tom Robson is poised to have a breakout year in the Blue Jays minor league system.

Again.

Robson appears to be back on track after having Tommy John surgery following a breakout 2013 season where he posted a 1.12 ERA in 64.1 innings pitched. The Delta, BC native tore his UCL in his elbow, costing him the better part of the next two years. 

“In 2012 I was hurt, 2013 was my one healthy year, where I did well, 2014 hurt, 2015 hurt,” said Robson, at the Bobby Mattick Training Center. “So I want to get back to that 2013 form.”

He has spent the past season and a half rehabbing, and feels he is finally healthy enough to perform the way he did two years ago. 

“Last year was a long year going through that rehab process, physically and mentally, it took a toll on me,” said the 2011 Blue Jays fourth round draft pick. “I just want to go out there and have a healthy year and a strong year, if I can control those things I feel I will have a successful year. “

Robson pointed to the ability to remain healthy, both physically and mentally, as the most important factor in overcoming injury and regaining his 2013 form this season. 

“This year, my No. 1 goal is to stay healthy all year, stay on the field and not get hurt. Keep my body strong and my mind right,” he said. “For me, it’s just about going out there and giving it everything I have for that day. 

“I can’t control the outcome, but I can control how I prepare myself and I take pride in that.”

The former member of the Langley Blaze singled out his fastball as the biggest contributor to success, and admitted he had been improving on his secondary pitches as well. 

“The sink on my fastball is something that I want to take advantage of and something that I look to use this year,” said Robson. “Coming back through rehab, I have been focusing a lot on that curveball trying to get it back and as of late it has been very good. I’m excited about it.” 

Robson is currently listed on the roster of the class-A Lansing Lugnuts, but is not sure which affiliates he will end up with this season.