Spring GameThread: Jays @ Marlins

Blue Jays and Marlins face off in Grapefruit League matchup

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:49pm

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The Toronto Blue Jays are traveling to Jupiter, Florida to take on the Miami Marlins in a spring training game. Despite the long 3.5-hour bus ride, several Blue Jays veterans including George Springer are making the trip to get in some additional at-bats before the regular season starts.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide important opportunities for players to get game reps and prepare for the upcoming MLB season. The long bus ride shows the dedication of the Blue Jays veterans to get ready, even if it means a grueling travel schedule.

The details

The Blue Jays are sending a lineup that includes several regulars like George Springer, Nathan Lukes, and Daulton Varsho. The Marlins are also fielding a competitive lineup with players like Xavier Edwards, Esteury Ruiz, and Griffin Conine. Lazaro Estrada is expected to take the mound for the Blue Jays.

  • The game is taking place on March 16, 2026.

The players

George Springer

Veteran outfielder for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Lazaro Estrada

Pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Xavier Edwards

Infielder for the Miami Marlins.

Esteury Ruiz

Outfielder for the Miami Marlins.

Griffin Conine

Outfielder for the Miami Marlins.

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What they’re saying

“He really must want the at bats, because he could easily say 'I don't want to go' and no one would make him. Seven hours on the bus for 3 or 4 plate appearances?”

— tom dakers, Author

The takeaway

Spring training games provide valuable opportunities for MLB teams to evaluate their rosters and get players game-ready, even if it means enduring long bus rides between facilities. The dedication of veteran players like George Springer to maximize their reps shows the commitment required to succeed at the highest level of professional baseball.