...
By Drew VonScio
Contributing Sports Writer
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly agreed to a deal with talented hitter Kazuma Okamoto, per ESPN's Jeff Passan.
After adding Dylan Cease and Cody Ponce to the starting rotation, the Blue Jays opted to turn to the offensive side of their roster. While opening day is still several months away, it's never too early to try to preview what their lineup could look like on Mar. 27 against the Athletics.
...
Read More on MLB
Opening Day Lineup Prediction:
RF George Springer
CF Daulton Varsho
1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
DH Anthony Santander
3B Kazuma Okamoto (Reported Agreement)*
C Alejandro Kirk
LF Nathan Lukes
2B Ernie Clement
SS Andres Giemenez
SP Kevin Gausman
Okamoto would likely slot into the heart of the order for the Blue Jays to help provide him with the most protection. This projection also adds in the return of Anthony Santander, who missed significant time last season due to injury. George Springer retains his spot at the top of Toronto's lineup after he revived his career last season.
John Schneider will certainly have options to craft the perfect lineup once opening day rolls around, and the Okamoto agreement is finalized and made official. The Blue Jays' lineup is one of the deepest in baseball, and it will be difficult for any opposing pitcher to get through twice.
If the Blue Jays would like Okamoto to get more fastballs, they could move him above Guerrero Jr. and Santander while still keeping those three in the heart of the order. That decision could even be made on a case-by-case basis for each opponent and opposing pitcher.
More MLB: Mets Predicted to Steal Starting Pitcher From Rival Phillies
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines