Blue Jays vs Pirates: Todays Lineup, Gausman's Spring Debut

A year ago, shoulder fatigue limited Gausman to just one Grapefruit League appearance and that was a desperately rushed outing in the final days of camp.

As a veteran, Gausman is big on finding the ideal window of preparation for the long grind that awaits.

For him, the ideal scenario is to have an arm that is fresh and ready to throw in April, but still able to deliver high quality efforts in October.

That means easing into game action during the lengthy exhibition season and ramping up from there.

When spring training starts on the wrong foot, it's difficult to recover - no matter your age.

He's now on track to be able to finish spring with a pair of five-inning, 75-pitch Grapefruit League outings - something he didn't get the chance to do a year ago.

With 16 Grapefruit League games remaining before the season opener, there's still lots of work to do.

But already, Gausman can feel the difference compared to a year ago. It all starts today against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Daulton Varsho who is still rehabbing his right shoulder will get into todays lineup as the designated hitter.

With Bo Bichette getting a day off, Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Anthony Santander both shift up a spot.

Alejandro Kirk will bat cleanup today while Joey Loperfido and Leo Jimenez move up to the Middle.

Nathan Lukes has been getting a long look as a possible choice for the crowded fourth outfielder position, while Michael Stefanic and Riley Tirotta the same for an infield bench role.