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Toronto Blue Jays: 5 Things to Know About Melvin Upton Jr.

By Chris Okrainetz

Jul 26, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. takes batting practice before a game against the San Diego Padres at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 26, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. takes batting practice before a game against the San Diego Padres at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /
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July 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; San Diego Padres left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. (2) hits a single in the fifth inning against Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Speed and Defence

Upton has stolen 20 bases this year with the Padres and will add speed to the Blue Jays, which isn’t something they’re necessarily lacking, but it’s always nice to add more. When he’s not playing in the everyday lineup, he becomes a valuable pinch-runner off the bench, which is something that will also help.

Related Story: Is Josh Donaldson the MVP Again?

Defensively, Upton’s ability to play all three outfield positions is a huge plus for the Blue Jays. John Gibbons can now give Michael Saunders and Jose Bautista more days off, and having the duo of Upton and Kevin Pillar in the outfield should save an extra run or two.

He’s also a legitimate everyday outfielder who provides great insurance should Pillar, Saunders or Bautista suffer an injury.

It doesn’t hurt that he makes outrageous grabs in the outfield like this one either:

Next: His Confidence is Back

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