The Blue Jays are in the market for a pleasant surprise.
Even if they land a legitimate DH — a market that should finally move with Rhys Hoskins close to signing with the Brewers — this roster needs more. Some of that will need to come from internal growth, and while that idea immediately points the mind to underperforming stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Blue Jays will need a couple of players from the fringes of their roster to make the jump, too.
Toronto’s depth is a strength, particularly in the infield, but this is about raising this team’s ceiling, not just protecting its floor.
These three young players enter camp with opportunities to be part of that, whether it be Opening Day or a few miles down the road in 2024.
RHP BOWDEN FRANCIS
Francis is underrated, period.
Fellow pitchers heap praise onto the 27-year-old, who came to the Blue Jays in 2021 alongside Trevor Richards in the Rowdy Tellez trade. Francis and Richards worked in tandem at times last season, combining as a “spot starter” in Alek Manoah’s absence, and Francis held his own. Over 36 1/3 innings, he recorded a 1.73 ERA with 35 strikeouts and just eight walks. His curveball, in particular, emerged as a legitimate plus pitch in the big leagues.
So, what next? Francis spent much of 2023 pitching where he was needed, but with improved pitching depth, the Blue Jays can deploy him where he’s best suited. He’s earned a shot at starting again and could compete for the No. 5 job in camp, with a trip to Triple-A Buffalo as the next man up being the likely outcome. He could open as the bullpen’s swingman, too, a role he’s grown comfortable in.
Either way, Francis will pitch meaningful innings for the 2024 Blue Jays. Thoughtful, mature on the mound and one of the most unique personalities on this roster, he’s earned the organization’s trust.
3B DAMIANO PALMEGIANI
Toronto’s fringe infield depth group is dense and cluttered, which can be a good thing. Add Palmegiani to Orelvis Martinez, Addison Barger, Leo Jimenez, Otto Lopez, Ernie Clement, Spencer Horwitz and others. This isn’t about who the top prospect is or who will be starting in the big leagues 10 years from now. It’s about which player has a specific skill set to fit this exact roster right here, right now.
Leave a Reply