Toronto Blue Jays: Finding a role for Lourdes Gurriel Jr.

Signing George Springer led to quite the domino effect. The New York Mets had to move on in their quest for a center fielder. Toronto’s batting order will be significantly different, as Springer will slot into one of the top three spots in the lineup. And then there is the matter of the Toronto Blue Jays‘ roster.

As it stands, Springer is ticketed for the everyday role in center. This leaves three players – Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Teoscar Hernandez, and Randal Grichuk – for two spots in the outfield. Hernandez and Grichuk are best suited for corner outfield spots, or the designated hitter role. However, there is a logjam at DH as well, with Rowdy Tellez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Finding a role for Lourdes Gurriel Jr. on the Toronto Blue Jays

This would seemingly leave Gurriel as the odd man out. It is actually somewhat ironic that he would lose his spot in the outfielder as he was actually the Blue Jays best defensive player last season, saving eight runs in left, second most in the league. His nine assists from left led the AL in 2019 as he has developed into an excellent defensive outfielder.

But there is logic when it comes to moving Gurriel as well. He had initially been signed as an infielder, spending his time at second and short in the minors. While he had played in left in Cuba, Gurriel also saw time at each infield spot and in right. He does, theoretically, have the ability to be a super utility player in Toronto.

That appears to be the thought process in Toronto as well. He has reportedly been getting time as first and third as well, expanding his defensive repertoire. As he spent time at second and short in the majors, it is possible he could slot there as well.

Although Gurriel may be the odd man out when it comes to the Blue Jays everyday lineup, he is still going to see plenty of action. He may end up starting five times a week, albeit at a different position each time. His bat, and defensive versatility, are certainly coveted in Toronto.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. will still have plenty of opportunities with the Toronto Blue Jays. They may just come at different positions.