Jesus Luzardo fell back into a hole with the Philadelphia Phillies, this time giving up 8 runs in just 2.1 innings against the Blue Jays — a brutal line that further complicates his situation after what had been a very strong start to the season. To make matters worse, the team is once again stuck in a losing streak.
“There’s something obvious that we’re missing when the first 11 starts are lights-out and then the next two are 20 earned runs,” Luzardo said. “There’s got to be something we can find and fix and make that change. It has to happen fast.”
Luzardo’s message made one thing clear: he’s determined to turn things around. He knows fans are eager to see the version of him that kept opposing teams to 3 runs or fewer per game — the same pitcher who held a 2.15 ERA and a 5-0 record before the back-to-back disasters against the Brewers (17-7) and Blue Jays (9-1).
Luzardo searching for answers
The game against Toronto wasn’t just the second of the series — it also marked Luzardo’s second-worst start of the year. It was officially the shortest outing of his MLB season as well, having previously pitched a minimum of five innings in each appearance.
“I know how frustrating it is — fan base, teammates and coaching staff, watching that,” Luzardo said. “But there is no one more frustrated than me. I’m trying to find ways to fix it. Like, now. I need it now.” He added: “I feel healthy, so that’s the most frustrating part.”
Thomson stands behind Luzardo
Manager Rob Thomson acknowledged the tough stretch Luzardo is going through. After Game 2, the Phillies skipper noted how well-prepared the Blue Jays seemed at the plate.
“It almost looks like they know what’s coming,” Luzardo admitted. While Thomson doesn’t believe pitch tipping is the issue, he said the team will look into it. “Could be,” Thomson said. “But he hasn’t in the last two starts, so maybe that’ll help him.”
The manager also pointed out how aggressive opposing hitters have been against Luzardo lately. “They’re really aggressive on him,” Thomson said. “So we’ve got to take a look at that. Everything’s hard. They’re coming up there and they’re swinging. So we have to address it.”
