Blue Jays put struggling outfielder Kevin Kiermaier on waivers
The move means another team can claim Kiermaier and take over the approximately $4.5 million (U.S.) left on his $10.5 million salary this year. If he goes unclaimed, he can be released or the Blue Jays can just keep him on the roster.
As the Blue Jays continue to fall out of playoff contention this summer, the MLB club has placed Kevin Kiermaier on waivers in what could be the first of many moves for a team in sell mode.
The news broke Thursday, in an exclusive report by the as the popular centre-fielder had two hits and a diving catch to rob former teammate Matt Chapman of a hit to help lead the Blue Jays to a win over the San Francisco Giants.
The move means another team can claim Kiermaier over the next 48 hours and take over the approximately $4.5 million (U.S.) left on his $10.5 million salary this year. If he goes unclaimed, he can be released or the Blue Jays can just keep him on the roster.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Kiermaier, a four-time Gold Glove winner, has provided his usual solid defence in the outfield but has struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .191 in 71 games, with three homers and 13 RBI.
“I’m thankful for everything that’s come my way,” he said i. “I don’t know what the future holds so I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself, but I promise you I’ll be able to go out there and just play like I always do, hopefully better.
According to Sportsnet, he will travel with the team to Arizona as the Jays start their series against the Diamondbacks on Friday in their last games before the all-star break.
“It’s such a cliche way to go about it,” he said. “But me being through this for the first time in my career, I don’t know what to expect, but I know what I need to do when I show up to the field (Friday). Get ready to play and just keep plugging away.”
The move could be an indicator that the Jays, with dreams of the post-season in spring training, are in sell mode. According to the Post, if they cut $10 million from their payroll between now and the July 30 trade deadline they would fall under the $237 million first luxury tax threshold.
Kiermaier re-signed with the Jays in the off-season after not finding any offers to his liking on the free agent market. He made $9 million last season, in which he played 129 games (matching his highest total since 2015), posted a .741 on-base plus slugging percentage (his highest since 2017) and won his fourth Gold Glove.
To join the conversation set a first and last name in your user profile.
Sign in or register for free to join the Conversation