Manager John Schneider announced Bowden Francis would make the Toronto Blue Jays starting rotation to start the season, as starter Kevin Gausman is recovering from an injury. Francis will get the opportunity to start for the first time in his career. There was a discussion about who would pitch for the home opener and the starting rotation projections. Lucky for Francis, it was announced early on Thursday morning that Schneider had given him a spot. Alek Manoah has also been dealing with a minor injury, a “cranky” shoulder. Because of this, it can be said that the stars are aligning for Bowden Francis. If you take into consideration the timing, the talent, and the opportunity, you will find that they are all right there.
Things Going In the Right Direction for Bowden Francis
Blue Jays Starting Pitcher Bowden Francis Will Open Season in Rotation
Blue Jays fans witnessed flashes of Francis’ potential in 2023 when was a sleeper as one of the Blue Jays’ best relievers. But he’s always been a starter at heart. Francis has been given a chance and a golden opportunity he probably didn’t anticipate. The spot likely opened up at least in part due to Gausman’s shoulder injury. But while Gausman will miss Opening Day, Francis appears slated to start the season’s fourth game for the Blue Jays. Francis deserves the opportunity, as he has pitched well in spring training, recording a 2-1 record, a 3.38 ERA, and 15 strikeouts.
In 2023, he recorded a 1-0 record for the Blue Jays with a 1.73 ERA, one save, and 35 strikeouts as a reliever. While it is a small sample size, he has proven that he deserves a chance to show what he can bring as a starter. The now 27-year-old was drafted in 2017 by the Milwaukee Brewers in the seventh round with the 204th overall pick. He made his debut on April 27th, 2022. In addition, Francis is in his last option year with the team, so this could be the start of something big for him if he pitches well this season as a starter and decides to remain with the team. He came to Toronto along with Trevor Richards in a trade with the Brewers for Rowdy Tellez.
Well-Earned for Francis
Seeing Bowden Francis pitch as a starter should be fun to watch as he grows and transitions into the role of a starter. Getting this chance means it could be Francis’ time to shine. He will get more of a chance to showcase his talent in a starting role. Francis has earned this honor for the Blue Jays, as he impressed his teammates, manager, and fans this spring. Things are going in the right direction for him as he looks to take advantage of this opportunity.
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