Blue Jays rumours: Signing J.T. Realmuto would open up possibilities
The Toronto Blue Jays appear to be interested in signing J.T. Realmuto who would bring a significant addition behind the plate.
If there is one position that tends to be overlooked, it’s the catcher position, but the Toronto Blue Jays have always made an effort to ensure they have quality behind the plate.
This is why the rumours surrounding the Blue Jays’ interest in free-agent catcher J.T. Realmuto shouldn’t be surprising. Realmuto finds himself in a strong position as the top backstop on the market and many teams who wouldn’t mind having stability at the position.
More from Tip of the Tower
- Cam Phillips making his mark on Toronto Argonauts offence
- Toronto Argonauts: 4 storylines ahead of matchup against Redblacks
- Federico Bernardeschi ready for new challenge with Toronto FC
- Toronto Argonauts overcome Roughriders in entertaining Touchdown Atlantic
- Buffalo Bills: Von Miller drawing inspiration from Bruce Smith
The 29-year-old is a two-time All-Star who shlashed .266/.349/.491 with 11 homers and 32 RBI in 47 games last season. Not only is he one of the best framers in baseball but he has led the majors in caught stealing percentage.
The real challenge for Toronto is whether or not they want to make the financial commitment that some project Realmuto to command. However, what adding an elite catcher in free agency does is open up possibilities at other positions.
We all saw the impact Russell Martin had when he was signed back in 2014 to a five-year $82 million deal. He was the undoubted leader behind the plate who had a great rapport with the pitching staff and could hit as well.
Breaking down the Blue Jays’ interest in Realmuto really has two parts to it because they will have to figure out the right offer. Then they have to decide what they do with the catchers who are in the system.
Some might question an aggressive pursuit of Realmuto a bit confusing because the team already has Alejandro Kirk, Danny Jansen and Reese McGuire. However, what the Blue Jays’ could do with their surplus of catchers could help them upgrade at other positions.
The high salary demands Realmuto would command could also impact the Blue Jays’ ability to upgrade at other positions where the team lacks the depth to compete. Unless Toronto feels that Jansen is on the decline and Kirk isn’t capable of being a reliable defensive contributor, then Realmuto would be a worthwhile upgrade.
The Blue Jays must also feel comfortable with what their payroll flexibility provides otherwise this wouldn’t be a consideration for them.. Considering the numerous nets the front office is casting, it will be interesting to see how many fish the Blue Jays are hoping to land.
Related Story. Nolan Arenado on team's radar. light
Do you think the Blue Jays should pursue Realmuto in free agency? How much should they be looking to pay him? Let us know in the comments below.