I could be exaggerating a bit too much here, but doesn’t it feel like Ronel Blanco is literally one of the few reasons why this 37-40 season hasn’t completely come off the rails at least yet? I’d say yes. For as much criticism as Dana Brown has absorbed since being hired in February 2023 — not all of it warranted — we should also give credit for him deciding that Blanco could stick as a starter. While the right-hander was intriguing in spots in past seasons, he was also entering his age-30 season with little Major League experience. So far, I think it is fair to say that Brown’s faith in Blanco has paid off quite well.