By Jay Blue

Blue Jays from Away

My last day in Dunedin, Monday, March 19 started off with some threats of rain. The dark clouds loomed over the fields but the rain stayed away (except for a few brief drops around 1 p.m.) and the games were played.

I watched a little batting practice, seeing some of the catchers taking their BPs and then headed over to watch the bullpen sessions. There were a lot of pitchers throwing in the bullpen with Francisco Rios, Jordan Romano (Markham, Ont.), Nick Tepesch, Nick Hartman, Chris Rowley, Elio Silva and Kelyn Jose throwing. I also saw Roither Hernandez toss another bullpen session. I also got a brief look at Sam Moll, whom the Blue Jays just claimed on waivers.

I went to go write up a "Quick Hit" scouting report and when I got back, it was time for the games. Starting for the "Buffalo" squad was Jon Harris while Sean Reid-Foley started for the "New Hampshire" team. There was also an opportunity to see a few guys who had spent a lot of time in big league camp thus far. Jonathan Davis led off for the "Buffalo" team while we also saw Richard Urena and Rowdy Tellez. In the double-A game, Vladimir Guerrero (Montreal, Que.) and Bo Bichette were getting the day off but we got to see Max Pentecost, Joshua Palacios, Cavan Biggio and Ryan Noda. I was also very excited to see T.J. Zeuch on the mound (in the double-A game).

Following the games, I interviewed D.J. Neal, a 2017 draftee who played in the GCL last year. We talked about his decision while in college to transfer so he could pursue baseball full time (after going in and playing football). We also talked about the grind of the GCL and what he's focused on learning right now.

That was it for my sojourn in Florida. By the time you read this, I'll be on my way back to Toronto but don't worry, the 2018 Toronto Blue Jays Minor League Handbook is coming soon and you'll be able to read about all of these players and more by subscribing to our Premium Content section and reading the Handbook!

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The 2018 Toronto Blue Jays Minor League Handbook is coming soon! Visit the Handbook page for more information!