RealGM

The most surprising start in the majors this season belongs to the Blue Jays. Sure, other teams have surprised as well with their early success, but they haven’t had their rotation ravaged by injuries as is the case with Toronto.

The Blue Jays have let their bats do the talking, and they’ve spoken loud enough that three weeks into the season, Toronto is setting the pace in the AL East. Getting an early jump on the Rays, Red Sox, and Yankees is impressive enough, but consider that the Jays have done that without some arms they were heavily counting on – those of Jesse Litsch, Ricky Romero, Shaun Marcum, Dustin McGowan, Casey Janssen, and B.J. Ryan.

While this season it’s been the rotation that’s been hit hard by injuries, last season it was the position players who had to deal with injuries that cost them much playing time. In particular, the Blue Jays were comprised in 2008 by Hill playing only 55 games, Wells 108, and Rolen 115.

Wells still hit 20 home runs, and had 78 runs batted in. Two years ago when he played in 160 games, Hill hit .291 with 17 home runs, and 78 runs batted in. And although Rolen is 34-years-old, he still represents what an outstanding third baseman should bring to the game. He plays tremendous defense, and he can hit for power. He still has plenty left, both in the field, and at the plate. He just has to stay healthy.