Blue Jays Designate Ali Sánchez, Acquire Buddy Kennedy
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The Toronto Blue Jays are facing a familiar situation with their catching corps, recalling utility infielder Ryan Kennedy after another injury concern arose. This move highlights the team’s ongoing need for depth behind the plate and signals potential roster adjustments on the horizon as key players begin their journeys back from injury.
Catcher Concerns Resurface for the Jays
The Blue Jays recently experienced a scare when catcher Danny jansen left a game with an injury - a scenario eerily reminiscent of Kirk’s own injury earlier in the season. While the severity of Jansen’s issue isn’t yet known, the team is proactively addressing potential vulnerabilities at the position. Its a situation that could easily repeat itself in the coming days, emphasizing the importance of having reliable backup options.
To bolster their catching depth, the Jays recently traded Will Wagner to the Padres for brandon Valenzuela. However, Valenzuela is a prospect with no major league experience and limited time at the Triple-A level, meaning he isn’t instantly available as a big league solution. This leaves the team looking for readily available options. The team may consider bringing back veteran Miguel Sánchez on a non-roster deal,as he’s proven to be a reliable emergency option in the past.
Sánchez has a .279/.347/.419 line with a 107 wRC+ in 199 Triple-A plate appearances this year, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. While his 21 big league plate appearances yielded a .238/.238/.333 line, his Triple-A performance suggests he could be a valuable asset in a pinch.
Ryan Kennedy Returns to Fill Roster Spot
With Jiménez still unavailable due to the ten-day minimum for an optional assignment, the Blue Jays turned to Ryan Kennedy to fill the roster spot. Kennedy was recently signed to a minor league deal after being released by the Phillies. His performance with the Bisons hasn’t been stellar – a .207/.309/.259 line in 16 games – but the team is banking on his past success at the Triple-A level.
Looking back to 2022, Kennedy boasts a more impressive .268/.372/.408 line and 111 wRC+ at Triple-A. Importantly, he offers versatility, possessing big league experience at multiple non-shortstop infield positions.
Though, Kennedy is out of options, adding a layer of complexity to his situation. He’ll be looking to prove his worth and secure his place on the roster.
Giménez and springer Progressing Through Rehab
Fortunately for the Blue Jays, help is on the way. both Andrés Giménez and George Springer are beginning rehab assignments this week, according to Keegan Matheson of MLB.com. This positive growth will soon necessitate further roster moves to accommodate their return.
As thes key players get closer to rejoining the active roster, the Blue Jays will need to carefully evaluate their options and make strategic decisions to optimize their lineup and depth. The situation with Kennedy, Sánchez, and Valenzuela will all play a role in those upcoming decisions.
Photo courtesy of kevin jairaj, imagn images