The Blue Jays' next generation is officially here

Perhaps the next era will be more successful.

With the news that Alan Roden will travel north with the team for opening day, that next generation of Blue Jays baseball is officially here.

While Roden is not the top prospect in the Blue Jays organization, MLB ranks him at number five, he has been one of the most exciting to watch this spring. And he absolutely tore the cover off the ball, hitting .407 with two home runs.

Everybody in Blue Jays nation, from players and coaches, to announcers, to fans, haven't been this excited a prospect in quite some time. Yes, Addison Barger and Orelvis Martinez had their moments, but things feel different in regards to Roden.

While it's unknown how much playing time Roden will receive in a crowded outfield, John Schneider and the Blue Jays did not name him to the opening day roster just so he could sit on the bench. Roden will get into a major league game. And it will be sooner rather than later.

So where will Roden play? Look for the astrophysicist-turned-major-leaguer to get the bulk of his playing time in right and left field as well as the occasional DH day thrown in. The Blue Jays are also comfortable with Roden in CF, though he does have limited experience.

While many fans are skeptical that the Blue Jays can put together a winning season in 2025, at least Roden will make it exciting to watch this team again.