Top 5 MLB debuts in Jays history: Where does Yesavage rank?

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trey Yesavage created a lot of buzz with a dazzling outing in his first major-league game Monday against the Tampa Bay Rays. How does his performance stack up to other impressive debuts in franchise history? Let's take a look.

5. Davis Schneider (Aug. 4, 2023 vs. Red Sox)

Schneider became an instant fan favorite after homering at Fenway Park in his first MLB at-bat. He went 2-for-5 to start an incredible three-game series that saw him become the first player to collect nine hits and two homers in his first three contests. His nine hits also matched a modern MLB record dating back to 1901.

4. Trey Yesavage (Sept. 15, 2025 vs. Rays)

Even more impressive than Yesavage's franchise-record nine strikeouts in an MLB debut is how dominant he was over five-plus innings. He racked up 19 swing-and-misses, including 11 whiffs via his splitter, for the fifth-highest total in a debut since the pitch-tracking era started (2008). The 22-year-old top prospect came one pitch short of an immaculate inning in the fourth. His dad teared up after the head-turning performance at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

3. Alek Manoah (May 27, 2021 vs. Yankees)

There was a ton of hype surrounding Manoah after he was the first pitcher from the 2019 draft promoted to the majors. He didn't disappoint. The right-hander carved up the Yankees in New York, striking out seven over six shutout innings en route to his first MLB win. Only two of the 13 balls put in play against Manoah were classified as hard hits.

2. Mauro Gozzo (Aug. 8, 1989 vs. Rangers)

Gozzo may not be a household name, but he pitched like one in his debut during the inaugural season of the SkyDome (now known as the Rogers Centre). The right-hander allowed just three hits with four strikeouts and three walks over eight shutout innings versus the Rangers. It would stand as the best start of his six-year career.

1. J.P. Arencibia (Aug. 8, 2010 vs. Rays)

Arencibia erupted with two homers, three RBIs, and three runs scored in a 4-for-5 day at the plate in his first big-league game. He's one of five players to go deep twice in an MLB debut and the only major leaguer with two long balls and four hits in the first game of an MLB career. Once a top catching prospect, Arencibia never lived up to expectations, but he secured his place in Blue Jays lore.

Honorable mentions: Jesse Litsch, Marc Rzepczynski, Nate Pearson, Brandon Lyon, Lloyd Moseby, Brett Lawrie