Toronto Blue Jays: Norris and Buchholz signings are smart depth options
The Toronto Blue Jays were looking to add some pitching depth ahead of the season and both Bud Norris and Clay Buchholz fill that need.
One thing Toronto Blue Jays management has prioritized the past couple of seasons is having options in case of injuries or the inevitable selling off at the trade deadline and this season will be no different.
After adding Matt Shoemaker, Clayton Richard, David Phelps and bringing back John Axford, general manager Ross Atkins made it known that they were still in the market for pitching. The Blue Jays were able to bring in a couple of veteran arms in Clay Buchholz and Bud Norris, who are the type of players the team needs.
Looking back at what the Blue Jays did last season moving J.A. Happ, Seunghwan Oh, Axford, Aaron Loup, Roberto Osuna and Steve Pearce, it helped them reload the prospect cupboard. Considering the direction the team is going, the more young options they have gives them more flexibility.
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At the same time, the team is making sure they have a veteran player who will either push these young players to earn a spot or if they are not ready, provide options. As Gregor Chisholm of MLB.com reports, Richard hasn’t been a full participant during spring training as he recovers from knee surgery.
If the Blue Jays need someone to start, Buchholz can step in or come out of the bullpen as he did with the Boston Red Sox. Norris will probably be used in late-inning situations, which could improve his trade value if the Blue Jays sell at the deadline.
Whether or not these are the final moves the Blue Jays make between now and opening day remains to be seen, but it never hurts to keep the options open. Considering the lack of expectations around the team this season, it could benefit some of these players to have strong seasons.
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What do you think about the Blue Jays’ moves? Should they consider looking to add more players before opening day? Let us know in the comments below.