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Toronto Blue Jays: 4 Outfielders Vying for the Opening Day Roster

By Paul Taylor

Mar 3, 2016; Bradenton, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Pat Venditte (44) and teammates works out prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2016; Bradenton, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Pat Venditte (44) and teammates works out prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto Blue Jays
Sep 12, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Ezequiel Carrera (3) runs out a double during the second inning of the game against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports /

2) Ezequiel Carrera

Drafted: Signed by the New York Mets as an undrafted amateur free agent in 2005

MLB career stats: 267 games – 5 HR/54 RBI – .259/.309/.4349 – 27 SB/39 BB

Last season: 91 games – 3 HR/26 RBI – .273/.321/.372 – 2 SB/11 BB

Review: Carrera has come a long way since going undrafted in 2005. He signed as a free agent with the New York Mets, but had to wait until 2011 to get his first taste as action in the Majors.

That chance came after being traded to the Cleveland Indians. The 28-year old made his debut as a pinch hitter and in his first plate appearance, reached first base safely on a bunt, in the process driving in the game-winning run.

However, after 116 appearances in two season for the Indians, Carrera was designated for assignment, before being claimed off waivers by the Phillies. Ironically, he got to witness Brown’s All-Star season as a teammate, albeit while being limited to 13 appearances in the Majors.

It was only when the Güiria, Venezuela native arrived in Toronto in 2015, that he finally got to show what he was capable of. Not expected to feature much, he got his opportunity, due in part to Michael Saunders‘ injury.

Carrera went on to play in 91 games, the most of his career. He recorded single-season highs pretty much across the stat line, as he enjoyed his best year to date.

Projection for opening day: Carrera has a chance, due to good speed, decent offensive instincts and what he did last season for the team. However, a combination of a lack of power and being an average defender could well cost him.

Next: Darrell Ceciliani

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