Beyond the Nest: Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Hub

Finally, a transaction by the Toronto Blue Jays front office, and it’s one that many thought would not happen. Kevin Kiermaier has officially resigned with the Blue Jays on a 1 year contract worth around $10 million with additional incentives. To many, this is a plus as he brings a platinum glove to CF along with being a fan favorite. However, many thought that he would sign a 2-3 year deal with another team like the New York Yankees for around a $12 million AAV. From a team standpoint, I like this signing, as Daulton Varsho will now likely play LF full time, a position the Jays needed to fill this offseason. While this may reduce Varsho’s value as a primary CF, it does fill one of the three major holes in Toronto’s lineup, the other two being 3B and DH.

What Happens Next?

The Toronto Blue Jays are more than likely not finished with this signing, and they should not be. While Kiermaier brings excellent defense and an OK lefty bat (.741 OPS) to the lineup, the Jays need a power option like Soler or Bellinger to supplement the top of the lineup, and the struggles of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. They also need a solution to their 3B problem, and rumors are circling that the Jays are in talks with Matt Chapman’s camp. Whatever the case may be, this more than likely is just the beginning of a flurry of moves from Ross Atkins after losing out on both Ohtani and Juan Soto. Here’s the current lineup of the Jays with some missing spots.

1. George Springer – RF
2. Bo Bichette – SS
3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr – 1B
4. N/A – DH
5. Danny Jansen – C
6. Davis Schneider / Cavan Biggio – 2B
7. Daulton Varsho – LF
8. N/A – 3B
9. Kevin Kiermaier – CF

Of course, depending on who the Jays sign next, the batting order can change, but this is just a rough idea of who’s missing and where Atkins needs to place his focus on, whether that’s free agency or filling the gaps with trades. Could Max Kepler be a potential trade target for the Toronto Blue Jays? That most certainly would allow Springer to slot in at DH while bringing a power hitting RF to the team. He will make $10 million in 2024 and will come cheap as he will likely be a rental bat for the Blue Jays should they pursue him.