Toronto Blue Jays receiving calls on Dioner Navarro

Following the team’s signing of Russell Martin earlier this week, the Blue Jays suddenly find themselves in position to deal Dioner Navarro if they find a deal to their liking. Teams have been calling the Blue Jays already to express an interest, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

Navarro had projected to be Toronto’s starting catcher prior to the Martin signing. Entering his final year under contract, Navarro is slated to earn $5 million in 2015 before reaching free agency. He’ll turn 31 just before Spring Training begins.

Originally signed as an international free agent in 2000, Navarro has hit a collective .255/.313/.375 during his career since debuting during the 2004 season. He’s seen time with the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, and the Chicago Cubs before signing with Toronto prior to last season. 2014 marked a career high in terms of playing time, as he appeared in 139 games. Navarro hit .274/.317/.395 with 22 doubles and 12 home runs in 520 plate appearances.

As Rosenthal notes, the Jays could easily elect to hang onto Navarro. His salary makes him easy to carry on the bench. He could see some at bats at designated hitter and he would also serve as Martin’s backup, filling two roles in one and giving the team a shred of added roster flexibility.

Toronto could easily move Navarro, as well. Numerous teams are believed to be seeking an upgrade behind the plate and there are few legitimate options available on the free agent market. Martin signed as quickly as he did – and for as much as he did – in part because of that shallow market. Navarro, if made available, could instantly become one of the top options available.