The Toronto Blue Jays opened up their Grapefruit League schedule with a 9-7 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday afternoon, giving starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi an opportunity to prove himself as a starter once again. Kikuchi, who had a tough year as a starter last season before switching to the bullpen, had five strikeouts in two scoreless innings, allowing just one hit while throwing 20 of his 33 pitches for strikes. Promising prospects Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Santiago Espinal, and Addison Barger all hit home runs while Rodolfo Castro had one for the Pirates. In the end, Toronto outhit Pittsburgh 13-7. It was a great start to the season and a chance to give Blue Jays fans something to be optimistic about.
