Myles Straw’s time with the Guardians made him a divisive figure among fans. Despite signing a five-year, $25 million contract, his performance in high-pressure situations raised eyebrows. In the 2022 season, he managed a low .152 batting average in crucial moments. In 2023, this figure slightly improved to .198, yet he often came to the plate in tight game situations.
Straw joined the Toronto Blue Jays this postseason, but his World Series performance drew attention for all the wrong reasons. During Game 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, which stretched into 18 innings, Straw’s struggles were evident. He entered the game as a pinch-hitter in the eighth inning but went 0-for-4 at the plate.
World Series Appearance Highlights Straw’s Struggles
Straw’s first opportunity came in the ninth inning. With runners on first and second, he grounded out to third base. Three innings later, he faced another challenge with a runner on first, where he delivered a poorly executed bunt that went straight to Dodgers’ first baseman Freddie Freeman.
- First at-bat: Ground out to third base (9th inning)
- Second at-bat: Failed bunt (12th inning)
- Third at-bat: Fly out to center field (14th inning)
- Fourth at-bat: Struck out against pitcher Will Klein (16th inning)
Blue Jays Fail to Capitalize
The Blue Jays, known for their powerful offense during the postseason, faltered in extra innings. Their lineup featured Straw along with Tyler Heineman and Isiah Kiner-Falefa, which lacked firepower when it mattered most. Until Freeman’s game-winning home run in the 18th inning, neither team could secure a decisive lead.
In total, the former Guardians players Straw, Ernie Clement, Andrés Giménez, and Alex Call combined for a disappointing 3-for-21 in the long game.
Despite these struggles, Straw brings value to his team with his speed and defensive skills, earning him a fan base in Toronto. However, his limitations were spotlighted during the World Series, leaving fans to wonder about his future opportunities in Game 4.
