Could this finally be the year that the Toronto Blue Jays return to the post-season and make their run at another World Series title? The Jays had a solid spring under their belts and, despite last night’s home-opener loss, the team looks set to be competitive in the toughest division in Major League Baseball as they do battle against the dreaded New York Yankees and company. We caught up with ace pitcher Ricky Romero just after spring training and asked him what the season holds for the Blue Jays.
It seems like there is excitement building for the team, finally, after many years. Are you feeling that?
I think so, and I think there should be no reason why people shouldn’t be excited about the team. We feel the love on Twitter, and we see how excited people are, and we’ve shown that the future is bright and we’re looking forward to representing the city with a lot of pride.
This is a very young team. Tell us about the addition of guys such as Omar Vizquel and Darren Oliver who provide that veteran presence in the clubhouse.
I think it is important. Those guys have been nothing but great, Vizquel, [Francisco] Cordero, Oliver the mix of those guys has been a great formula. The clubhouse is fun, but at the same time we know when it is time to get down to business. We’ve shown that in spring training.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the team’s first World Series win in 1992. Does this team have what it takes to get back to that level?
I’m confident, absolutely, without a doubt. We have a great team, great pitching, great bullpen, our hitters are always there. We understand that it takes a lot of hard work. At this level, it’s about who wants it most, and this team has that attitude.
Who was your favourite player growing up?
Ken Griffey Jr. I always like watching him.
And what do you enjoy most about playing in Toronto?
Everything, man: the people, just the uniqueness of the city with different cultures all around. You get to see all that in the city of Toronto. Great restaurants, great fans.
