It’s well-documented this offseason that the Blue Jays were unable to add a fourth outfielder and another left-hander. However, it sounds like the team within the organization is looking for a solution to both problems.
From the Jays’ spring training camp, there’s this view Addison Barger will see some time in the outfield this spring.
Keegan Matheson from MLB.com reports that the Jays plan to attempt Barger in the outfield sometime during camp. We can only assume that means during Spring Training games, not just flyballs in the complex.
Worth seeing later in the camp: Addison Barger, one of the #BlueJays‘ Top prospects is expected to play some outfield.
Barger has a massive arm on the infield, which should translate. There’s a very attractive super utility up there.
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) February 18, 2023
While Barger had played some first and second base in the low minors, he was primarily a shortstop and third baseman through double-A and triple-A. But if he wants any chance of promotion to the big leagues, he has to look for another place on the pitch.
With Bo Bichette And Matt Chapmanwho played at left infield in 159 and 155 games respectively last season, it will be almost impossible for the Jays’ 14th overall pick this year to get a taste of the majors.
The team obviously see some potential for 23-year-old Barger to move to outfield, likely due to his 65-year-old well-above-average arm, which would make him a threat from the outfield corners.
You could also look for additional insurance just in case Kevin Kiermaier or George Springer has health problems this season. While both veterans head into 2023 perfectly healthy, a lot can happen with a 162-game schedule.
If Barger can make the move to the outfield, he immediately becomes a valuable backup option. Even if he starts his season in Buffalo and continues to show strong offensive play, he’s only a phone call away.
And there’s no doubt that the young left can handle the bat. Across three levels in 2022, Barger has cut .308/.378/.555 with 26 homers in just 124 games.
Addison Barger had a very underrated season in the Blue Jays Org. The 22-year-old SS/3B clocked .308/.378/.555 with 26 HR/9 SB and 33 2B between 3 levels.
He’s off to a hot start in the AFL with 3 hits in 9 PA, including 2 HR/5 RBI. pic.twitter.com/YqAPaUSNWa— Chris Clegg (@RotoClegg) October 6, 2022
Almost as impressive as his power numbers was his strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite a 25.3% K-Rate in Double-A, he improved his plate discipline in his eight Triple-A games, finishing with a consistent 13.9% BB and 13.9 K-Rate %. It’s always a good sign when a young hitter can adjust his approach and walk as much as he hits.
Barger is already on the 40-man roster so depending on how spring training goes we could see Barger in Toronto soon.
Next. Does the latest news mean Kikuchi has the inside job at #5? dark
Source: jaysjournal.com
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