Toronto Blue Jays final position player roster calls with camp winding down
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The final days of spring training have arrived for the Toronto Blue Jays, and the roster picture is beginning to take shape.
With their World Baseball Classic players now back in camp, the team is finally at full strength as Opening Day approaches.
With that in mind, here's a look at how the Toronto Blue Jays position-player group is projected to line up to start the season.
Most of the regulars are returning, along with a couple of notable additions.
Infielders: Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ernie Clement, Andrés Giménez, Kazuma Okamoto, Davis Schneider
Outfielders: George Springer, Daulton Varsho, Addison Barger, Jesús Sánchez, Nathan Lukes, Myles Straw
Catchers: Alejandro Kirk, Tyler Heineman
Toronto appears set to bring back much of its core position group, with Okamoto and Sánchez standing out as new faces.
However, one issue remains unresolved: the lack of a clear backup infielder.
According to Sportsnet's Shi Davidi, manager John Schneider has indicated that just one position-player spot is still up for grabs.
While strong spring performances matter, Schneider emphasized that the final decision will come down to overall roster fit and flexibility.
«Probably one spot (is to be decided). When you look at how we're rolling out, it kind of comes down to handedness, who can play where, how that person fits within the group, really. Performance matters in spring training and you don't want to be fooled or you don't want to undersell it, but I think really focusing on how everyone fits and how we like to use the entire roster. It's kind of a tough decision coming down to the end, for sure, with roster implications and guys with options, out of options, all that stuff. Looking for the best fit is the best way to put it.» - John Schneider
That puts a spotlight on a few key players
Leo Jimenez is out of minor-league options, which complicates any roster decisions involving him.
Meanwhile, Josh Kasevich has turned heads with an impressive showing this spring.
Another standout has been Eloy Jimenez, whose performance has caught everyone's attention across the board.
Although he doesn't fill a defensive need, his bat has been productive, he's collected 11 hits in 40 at-bats, including two home runs and three doubles.
It's a reminder of the talent that once made him one of baseball's most promising young hitters.
Still, Jiménez is on a minor-league contract with an opt-out clause on July 1, giving the Blue Jays some time to evaluate him until a clearer opportunity presents itself.
On the other hand, Davis Schneider who appeared to have a roster spot locked up, notably finds himself on shaky ground after a difficult spring.
In 32 at-bats, he's hitting just .094, with 10 strikeouts and a .362 OPS.
That said, things can change quickly. Schneider experienced a similar slump last season before being sent to Triple-A Buffalo for a reset, only to return and perform at a much higher level.
At this point, there's no obvious solution. The Blue Jays could option Kasevich to Triple-A, attempt to pass Leo Jiménez through waivers, and recall either player as needed.
In the meantime, players like Addison Barger and Schneider could help fill in around the infield when necessary.
All eyes will be on how John Schneider finalizes these decisions as the Blue Jays prepare to open the season against the Athletics at Rogers Centre on March 27.
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| POLL | ||
MARS 19|130 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays final position player roster calls with camp winding down Who would you like to see make the team by Opening Day? | ||
| Leo Jimenez | 44 | 33.8 % |
| Josh Kasevich | 33 | 25.4 % |
| Eloy Jimenez | 53 | 40.8 % |
| List of polls | ||