Jays drop game 4-2 at Joker Marchant

LAKELAND, Fla.—The Toronto Blue Jays dropped their first decision of the spring Monday 4-2 to the host Detroit Tigers at Joker Marchant

Colby Rasmus breaks up two. (Eddie Michels photo)

Stadium in Lakeland.

Jerry Gil, a minor leaguer making the road trip with the Jays took the loss allowing two run on two hits for his one inning on the mound.

The Tigers David Pauley got the win despite allowing one run on three hits for his one inning on the hill.

Colby Rasmas went 2-2 with a double and a walk making him the only Blue Jay with a multi-hit game.

Quinton Berry and Andy Dirks each had two hits for the Tigers with Berry adding two RBI.

Lefty #46 Evan Crawford (Eddie Michels photo)

Toronto’s Evan Crawford is continuing to show his merit this spring throwing another shutout inning and striking out two.

“He has very crisp stuff,” said Toronto manager John Farrell of Crawford, “We talked before the game about the positive impression and it has been two appearances, he’s making the most of his opportunities.”

SS Adeiny Hechavarra will probably start the season at Triple-A Las Vegas but that is not to say he hasn’t made an impression on Farrell.

“He has more strength and bat speed,” said Farrell comparing last spring to this spring, “I think last year things were a bit quick for him.  We didn’t know if he was going to swing at the first pitch or work himself deep into the count.  I think there is more now an understanding of what his abilities are.”

Hechavarra was signed to a four year $10-million contract with Toronto in April 2010 after defecting from the Cuban National Baseball Team.

BLUE JAYS NOTES: According to Farrell “RNP Carlos Villanueva threw very well yesterday (live BP) with no problems today.  He’ll pitch a simulated game on Wednesday.” …The Jays host the Phillies on Wednesday as LHP Ricky Romeo faces fellow lefty Cliff Lee.

#62 Jon Diaz (Eddie Michels photo)