Sports

Marcus Stroman gets 6 innings of mixed signals from Jays fans

The Blue Jays felt confident in their starting pitcher in their first ever wild-card game. It was the Twitter world that was on the fence about the decision and Stroman's performance come game time.

"I think Stro's the perfect guy" - Gibbons

Marcus Stroman reacts after retiring the side in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles. (Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

There's no doubt Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Marcus Stroman felt the pressure in Tuesday night's wild-card game against the Baltimore Orioles. 

In what was a controversial decision for Jays fans, manager John Gibbons chose Stroman to take the mound over left-hander Francisco Liriano.

  • Blue Jays' Marcus Stroman to start AL wild card game vs. Orioles

But while the Jays were confident in their starting pitcher in their first ever wild-card game, the Twitter world was on the fence. 

1. 'In Stroman we trust'

The 25-year-old started the game well, temporarily erasing any doubts fans might have had.




2. 'Stro Blows'

And then the Orioles' Mark Trumbo took Stroman deep in the fourth inning to give Baltimore a brief 2-1. 

*cue all negative reaction tweets*




3. Where's Liriano?

It was only a matter of time until the Stroman vs. Liriano controversy resurfaced. 




4. Stroman Strong 

But as the game progressed, through all the ups and downs, fans wrestled their way back and realized the depth and emotion that Stroman gave during his performance. Stroman wound up pitching six innings, giving up two runs on four hits with six strikeouts. 




5. Perspective

As all good and loyal fans exhibit emotion during games like these, maybe at times we all need to sit back and gain a little perspective at times.