Blue Jays Turn to a Familiar Face in Series Opener Lineup Against the Rays

There had already been quite the debate going on as if Pinango was the right player to move down, and his return at the expense of Barger is a horrendous set of circumstances, but at least John Schneider knows what he is getting with the rookie.

Pinango is now active for the series opener at Rogers Centre against the Tampa Bay Rays. The Jays are looking for redemption after a series sweep last week in Florida and will be counting on the rookie to hit second.

May 11 Starting Line Up

Hopefully, the Blue Jays are up for the task of starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen from the Rays, as he will be out for vengeance after three earned runs on seven hits last week, which is an anomaly for Rasmussen this season.

1. DH George Springer
2. LF Yohendrick Pinango
3. 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
4. 3B Kazuma Okamoto
5. CF Daulton Varsho
6. RF Jesus Sanchez
7. 2B Ernie Clement
8. SS Andres Gimenez
9. C Brandon Valenzuela

The Jays defensively will be standing behind Kevin Gausman, who should cross over the career milestone of 2,000 strikeouts, so something else to watch for.

Pinango in 2026

The 24-year-old is not backing down from major league hitters as he is hitting .423 on the year, and .450 in May. He has already found his first career RBI, a double, and multi-hit games. Now, he is looking for a homer and maybe even a triple.

Another huge positive to his game, the lack of retirement. Pinango has only tallied up three total K's in more than 25 at-bats. That is key.

Toronto is still trying to climb out of this hole and get over .500. There is still plenty of time to do so, but as they continue to scramble with injuries, the team needs some surprise faces to help keep the team afloat.

Pinango has delivered in his limited games, but he is making a case for himself as a difference maker.