The Toronto Blue Jays are closing in on free agent all-star catcher looking to improve their current duo
Photo credit: San Diego Union Tribune
The Toronto Blue Jays could finally look at improving their catcher duo as free agent and former San Diego Padres catcher Elias Diaz is still available.
Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins has mentioned earlier in the off-season that he is happy with their current duo of Alejandro Kirk and Tyler Heineman but he might end up changing his mind after all.
The Blue Jays could be interested in signing free agent catcher Elias Diaz
The Blue Jays have a great catcher in Kirk but having Heineman as their backup creates some issues since he will likely play a lot less games than Kirk which will put him at risk of injury.
Despite Atkins stating he is happy with the duo, it looks like they might be interested in signing Elias Diaz after all who would be a great addition to their roster and would make Heineman their third string back up which is a role that suits him a lot better.
The Blue Jays are currently projected to run out Tyler Heineman in the backup catcher spot. The 33-year-old backstop flashes a nasty card trick and can pull a rabbit out of his hat, but he's more of a third-stringer than backup. Diaz, a long-time Rockies catcher, represents a clear upgrade. -Bannon
Adding Diaz would be a great move for the Blue Jays since he is in the 75th percentile in throwing out runners, framing balls and pop time, he weakness is his hitting but he is coming off a decent season in 2024 at the plate.
Diaz brings a traditional backup catcher's defensive prowess, ranking above the 75th percentile in throwing out runners, framing the ball, and pop time.
He doesn't have much with the bat, chasing a lot, rarely squaring up the ball, and owning a career OPS below .700.
But, Diaz's 88 OPS+ last year was the highest mark he's posted since 2021 -Bannon
He doesn't have much with the bat, chasing a lot, rarely squaring up the ball, and owning a career OPS below .700.
But, Diaz's 88 OPS+ last year was the highest mark he's posted since 2021 -Bannon
While adding a starting pitcher or a solid hitter are still at the top of the Blue Jays list, a solid catcher like Diaz to help Kirk out this off-season could definitely be a great addition even though it is not a main priority.
Source: Blue Jays Nation
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