DUNEDIN, FLA. — The Blue Jays have added one other chair to an already crowded desk, signing veteran infielder Eduardo Escobar to a Minor League cope with an invite to MLB Spring Coaching.
Escobar rolled into the Blue Jays’ complicated simply prior to eight a.m. on Friday morning, chasing what could be his 14th MLB season with six organizations. That have is what can set Escobar aside amid a bunch of infielders in camp that’s already very deep.
The switch-hitting 35-year-old performed extra shortstop and even some outfield when he was youthful, however Escobar has shifted to a deal with second and third base lately. His offensive recreation has gone by way of peaks and valleys at occasions, however the expertise is clear with 5 20-homer seasons and a profession .735 OPS. Escobar is coming off a down 12 months, although, the place he hit .226 with a .613 OPS between the Mets and Angels.
Escobar remains to be an intriguing participant to have in camp on a Minor League deal, although, significantly given his expertise. It’s the roster match the place this turns into extra fascinating.
Exterior of Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., this infield may very well be a set of revolving doorways. Isiah Kiner-Falefa can play anyplace, Cavan Biggio isn’t far behind and Santiago Espinal has proven versatility within the huge leagues. Justin Turner will see time at each corners together with DH days, whereas Davis Schneider is predicted to bounce between second base and left discipline primarily based on matchups.
Take it a step additional and also you’ll discover Ernie Clement, who impressed in 2023 and has earned an extended look. Prime prospects Orelvis Martinez, Addison Barger and Leo Jimenez are all a part of this equation, too. It’s a crowded place, however once more, Escobar brings a degree of expertise that’s troublesome to match.
The competitors for Toronto’s bench shall be sophisticated however fascinating. The alternatives shall be a matter of philosophy and technique as a lot as efficiency in camp because the Blue Jays attempt to maximize all 4 spots. This goes nicely past right-handed and left-handed bats, too, because the Blue Jays take into account deeper matchup components. Escobar is now proper in the midst of that blend, trying to lengthen what’s already been a formidable profession.