Left fielder Adam Lind is making the most of his second opportunity with the Jays this season.
In late April and early May, Lind was up for a brief six-game stint, and after going just 1-for-19 he was sent back to Triple-A Syracuse. Since being recalled June 21, manager Cito Gaston has played Lind on a regular basis, and the left-handed hitter has responded by going 9-for-27 (.333) with three home runs and seven RBI, including a two-run homer in the Jays' 4-2 loss to Seattle on Wednesday. "He had some great at-bats last night (Tuesday) against the lefties," Gaston said. "He swings the bat and he's listening and he's learning."
Lind says he feels more confident in his second go-round this season.
"Really, it's just experience, just being around the team and competing at this level for the fourth or fifth time," he said, referring to past call-ups. "I kind of know a lot of the pitchers because it's not the first time seeing them."
Like a lot of the Jays, Lind senses a new beginning under Gaston.
"Right now there's a lot more energy around the clubhouse and a better atmosphere," Lind said.
Part of that comes from the way he's been producing.
MARINERS 4, JAYS 2: RHP Dustin McGowan took the loss as he allowed two runs in the bottom of the fifth on a two-run double by Miguel Cairo after the Jays had tied it 2-2 in the top of the inning on a two-run home run by LF Adam Lind. With the loss, the Jays finished their season series with Seattle with a 2-4 record. The Jays have lost five consecutive series away from home. Against AL West clubs they are 8-13.
