Toronto Blue Jays Reach Agreement to Bring Back Gold Glove OF
The Toronto Blue Jays have reached an agreement to bring back outfielder Kevin Kiermaier on a one-year deal.
Per Jays reporter Ben Nicholson-Smith:
#BlueJays are in agreement with Kevin Kiermaier on a one-year, $10.5 million deal pending physical per source
@Feinsand was on this. Deal includes some incentives
First off, from a practical standpoint, this likely completes Toronto's outfield for 2024. Kiermaier will pair with George Springer and Daulton Varsho in the outfield.
Furthermore, this helps restore some balance to the Jays' lineup. The team was looking far too right-handed heading into 2024 and this helps bring another lefty back into the fold. While the Jays saw Kiermaier hit free agency, they also have Brandon Belt as a lefty free agent from last year's roster.
The 33-year-old Indiana native hit .265 for Toronto in 2023, helping lead the Blue Jays to a third-place finish in the American League East and a wild card berth in the AL playoffs. Unfortunately, the Jays were swept in that round by the Minnesota Twins.
He posted eight home runs, 36 RBI and 14 stolen bases.
He played 129 games which contributed to his lower offensive numbers, but he still played superb defense, winning another Gold Glove Award. That was the fourth Gold Glove of his career.
An 11-year veteran of the Tampa Bay Rays and Blue Jays, Kiermaier is a lifetime .249 hitter with 90 homers and 352 RBI. He's also stolen 126 career bags.
This deal will bring Kiermaier's career earnings to more than $70 million.
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