The Toronto Blue Jays are still trying to find a place for Devon Travis. Could he end up as a utility player for Toronto?
Over the course of his career with the Toronto Blue Jays, Devon Travis has exclusively been used at second base defensively. Out of his 316 career games though 2018, 312 of those appearances have come at second, with his other entries into the lineup as a designated hitter or pinch hitter. Even in the minor leagues, Travis played just three games in a position other than second base, seeing action in center field during his time in the Tigers system.
That may change this season. In an effort to get Travis more at bats during the season, the Blue Jays are considering sending him out to left field in the coming year.
Of interest heading into spring training, with a crowded infield #Bluejays manager Charlie Montoyo says Devon Travis will likely see some time in left field this season to get extra at bats.
— Rob Longley (@longleysunsport) February 8, 2019
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Without such a move, one has to question what Travis’ future with the organization would be. Brandon Drury is just a placeholder until Vladimir Guerrero Jr is ready to take over at third. Loudres Gurriel is set at short, and is another option that can play second if need be. Bo Bichette may force Gurriel off short, if he does not move to second himself, and could be ready to debut this year. Then there are Kevin Smith and Cavan Biggio, both of who are nearing the majors as well.
That wave of talent would not matter if Travis had proven he could hit at the major league level. However, due to injury and inconsistency, he has not put together the type of production Toronto had hoped for. In fact, his OPS+ has decreased every year in the majors.
Last season, despite playing in a career best 103 games, Trvis had his worst season thus far. He produced a .232/.275/.381 batting line over his 378 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and 14 doubles. While he continued to make an impressive amount of contact, striking out only 64 times, Travis also drew only 16 walks. He also hit fewer doubles than in 2017 despite having 181 more plate appearances.
At 28 years old on Opening Day, time is running out for Travis to establish himself as a regular and the answer at second base. Instead, he is in danger of being pushed off the roster. Unless he can learn other positions, and become a potential utility player, the upcoming wave of prospects could shove Travis aside.
The Toronto Blue Jays are going to give Devon Travis a look in left field. Adding defensive versatility may be his only option to remaining with Toronto.