Over the past few years, the Blue Jays have had a reputation for having a good offensive club, but not responding well defensively. In 2021, it was obvious.
Last year, things improved for two reasons. First, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. took off at first base, collecting a first career Golden Glove.
And then the arrival of Matt Chapman, one of the best in his position defensively speaking, changed everything in the infield.
But in 2023, it will be even better. Why? In particular because of the work of the acrobats.
George Springer, who is a good center fielder, will be pushed down the right. He will provide excellent defensive play.
And we can say what we want offensively about the changes in the outfield, but to see that Teoscar Hernandez and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. have been replaced by Kevin Kiermaier and Daulton Varsho will change the dynamic.
For 10 years, no one has saved as many points as Kiermaier, who will be an ideal center (defensive) fielder in Ontario in 2023. And last year, Varsho was one of the best defensive outfielders in MLB. It remains to be seen if he can play on the left every day, but it should.
All three outfielders can play center, which will ensure the Jays have a great defensive club in the outfield in 2023.
In the infield? Chapman and Guerrero Jr. will do a good job. At second base? Whether it’s Whit Merrifield, Cavan Biggio or Santiago Espinal, the position will be well served.
Behind home plate? Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk are receivers who are well and truly capable of providing good defensive play – especially Jansen.
You will tell me that Bo Bichette is not the best defensive shortstop and that position is important… which is true. But with the rest of the team and Vladdy on first base, it’s easier to accept.
It is no coincidence that such changes have been made. The club wanted to work on the run-prevention, either the fact of preventing points.
It obviously goes through the pitchers (Chris Bassitt and Erik Swanson are part of this mentality) to prevent points, but good defensive teams can also go far, sometimes. The Phillies took a step last year when the club improved defensively.
Will it pay off? If the attack rolls…yes, it will surely pay off.
