Blue Jays' previous struggles with run support creep back this season

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider. Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Blue Jays' previous struggles with run support creep back this season

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Apr 16, 2026 6:35 PM ET

While numerous injuries have hampered the Toronto Blue Jays' early-season struggles, another defining element has been the lack of run support.

Their top two starters, Kevin Gausman and Dylan Cease, have been dominant but have yet to pick up their first win. Gausman owns 31 strikeouts, while Cease has 32.

Their strikeout abilities have been top-notch, but the offense has not been able to back up their clutch performances on the mound.

In the last two games in the Milwaukee Brewers series, the Blue Jays only scored two runs. Their lack of run support has been frustrating and has been a lingering issue in past seasons.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider is aware of the lackluster offensive production.

John Schneider on the offence:

“We need some extra-base hits. We need to slug.”

“We need to get back to everyone doing their part, whether it’s contact or slug. It seems like we’re missing that extra-base hit right now.” #BlueJays
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) April 16, 2026

Blue Jays offensive woes

Since 2023, Gausman has been a victim of low run support. A notable example this season was on April 1, where pitched six scoreless innings in a 2-1 loss to the Colorado Rockies.

On Thursday afternoon against the Brewers, the Blue Jays were held to a one-run game following a strong outing from Patrick Corbin.

The offensive struggles have been a combination of unproductive at-bats, lackluster baserunning and surrendering too many unearned runs.

Their inability to capitalize on golden opportunities with RISP (runners in scoring position) is nothing new. But it has unfortunately contributed to added pressure on their rotation.

They sit at 7-11 and have been battling to make ends meet. Their inconsistencies in producing substantial offense to support their solid pitching continues to be a red flag.

In addition, they have had issues with grounding into double plays. Blue Jays third baseman Kazuma Okamoto leads the team with three.

Another offensive issue has also been linked to low power output and extra-base hits. The Blue Jays rank 27th in MLB in terms of average exit velocity and 25th with most runs scored.

They are also tied for 24th with walks, illustrating a lack of plate discipline and poor swing decisions.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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