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Liriano eager to resume working with Martin
- Updated: August 4, 2016
HOUSTON — Left-hander Francisco Liriano officially joined the Blue Jays on Wednesday afternoon, and he can’t wait to start working with veteran catcher Russell Martin.
Liriano was added to the 25-man roster prior to Wednesday’s game against the Astros and will make his first start for the club on Friday in Kansas City. Right-hander Mike Bolsinger was optioned to Triple-A Buffalo to make room for Liriano on the 25-man roster.
The 32-year-old Liriano worked with Martin from 2013 to 2014 in what turned out to be two of the best years of his career. His 2.92 ERA with Martin behind the plate is lower than it is with any other catcher. The two clearly developed a rapport in Pittsburgh, and although that doesn’t guarantee success in Toronto, the familiarity should help.
“I think we’re pretty much on the same page,” Liriano said. “We have a pretty good connection. We talked before the game, and we have a pretty good idea of what we want to do. He’s great behind the plate and he has a pretty idea what the hitter is looking for. He works hard every day, and he motivates a lot of guys. He’s one of the best right now.”
Liriano struggled for most of the season in Pittsburgh after posting three consecutive seasons there with an ERA of 3.38 or below. This year his ERA is 5.46; his biggest issue has been command, with 5.5 walks per nine …
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