Blue Jays' Myles Straw making most of playing time in Daulton Varsho's absence
Photo credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Myles Straw has made the most of his playing time in Daulton Varsho's absence with some great play on both sides of the ball so far in 2026.
Myles Straw stood out as the Toronto Blue Jays lone bright spot in Friday’s 6–3 loss to the Diamondbacks, going 2-for-3 with a solo home run and scoring twice.
The home run was Straw’s first of the season. Known more for his contact and speed than power, he entered 2026 with just 10 career home runs across eight seasons.
GIVE HIM THE JACKET ‼️It's a solo home run for Myles Straw 💥
While he’s unlikely to become a major power threat, his defensive reliability and ability to create offense in other ways remain valuable assets.
There are also encouraging signs beneath the surface. Straw is posting a career-best 31.8% hard-hit rate and has been especially effective against fastballs, hitting .538 without a single swing-and-miss.
Additionally, he’s pulling the ball in the air at a 45.5% rate, an approach that marks a significant departure from his previous tendencies, even if it doesn’t always guarantee success.
Following Sunday’s 10–4 win over Arizona, Straw spoke about the team’s explosive eight-run first inning with The Athletic's Mitch Bannon.
Myles Straw on today's #BlueJays first inning:
"That was amazing. Kind of let us take a deep breath, for a minute or two. Still had to finish the game, but after the last couple games, scoring two or three runs, it's definitely a good sign. Got the boys going there."
"That was amazing. Kind of let us take a deep breath, for a minute or two. Still had to finish the game, but after the last couple games, scoring two or three runs, it's definitely a good sign. Got the boys going there."
Straw setting the tone to shift the direction of the Blue Jays
So far this season, Straw has embraced his role as a depth player, batting .391 (9-for-23) with three RBIs, eight runs scored, and a double. He’s also attempted one steal, though he was thrown out.
With Varsho still considered day-to-day, Straw continues to have an opportunity to see regular time in center field.
Injuries have tested the Blue Jays early, but expectations within the clubhouse remain unchanged.
It’s up to the players on hand to shift the direction of the season, and Straw is positioning himself as someone who can help do just that, and by the looks of Sunday's score others are too.
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Previously on Blue Jays Central