Toronto Blue Jays acquire catcher Miguel Montero from the Chicago Cubs
After being designated for assignment following his off the field issues with the Chicago Cubs, Miguel Montero has found a new home with the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired former Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Montero for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
Montero comes to the team after some controversial comments made in his last game in Chicago. The 33-year old called out his ace Jake Arrieta for pitching too slow in an effort to prevent stolen bases from opposing players.
Miguel Montero ripped pitcher Jake Arrieta after the Nationals stole seven bases on the Cubs. Today, Montero was designated for assignment. pic.twitter.com/5L8nCrZsD6
— SI MLB (@si_mlb) June 28, 2017
However, Montero is currently one for 31 in attempts to prevent a stolen base so far this season.
Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins stated in a phone interview with Sportsnet how the acquisition of Montero would provide depth at the catching position and is excited to bring him to the organization.
#BlueJays GM Ross Atkins spoke about acquiring Miguel Montero and what it might mean for Russell Martin. pic.twitter.com/zRdgAyXQla
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) July 3, 2017
The signing has been met with mixed responses from Blue Jays fans with some being happy with the addition on offence, while some left wondering why would the team make the sudden move with the current state of the 2017 season.
So they jays go sign Miguel Montero. I'm really liking this. pic.twitter.com/rDsYgGIGzz
— Dan (@itsdbarone) July 3, 2017
I'm the last person to worry about 'clubhouse' issues. The late 70s Yankees all hated each other and still won.
— Bluebird Banter (@bluebirdbanter) July 3, 2017
I absolutely love the Miguel Montero move. A needed LH bat. Now, do #BlueJays have the stones to play Martin at 2nd base more? I hope so
— Chris Halliday (@Chris_Hally) July 3, 2017
Despite his comments, Montero does bring some offence to the team, currently slashing .286/.366/.439. A much reliable upgrade from Luke Maile, who currently is slashing .115/.149/.336 with, more notably, an OPS of -12.
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Montero also provides a left handed bat that is needed in a heavy right handed line up. What’s more unique about the signing is what could happen to catcher Russell Martin.
Martin is known to play at times in the infield which included second and third base. Not only has the catching depth improved, but also the infield depth.
Martin can relieve infielders Darwin Barney and Ryan Goins and can alternate the second base position as the Blue Jays wait for Devon Travis (that’s if he were to return). With continuous and reliable bats coming off the bench, the Blue Jays have flexibility in their lineup depending on the game situation.
As for Luke Maile, the possibilities of him return to Buffalo are high as the team will continue to look to develop the young catcher.
The Blue Jays are headed to Wrigley Field to take on the Cubs for a three game weekend series mid August.
Next: The trade that never was
What do you think of the Blue Jays getting Miguel Montero? Like it? Not a fan? Let us know in the comments below.