The Toronto Blue Jays recent run of poor play has got me scrambling, looking for positives. As the team’s chances at the postseason continue to dwindle there is a feeling of disappointment and missed opportunity. However, there’s also a sense that the best is yet to come with this group. The front office took a calculated risk in trading top prospects Austin Martin and Simeon Woods-Richardson. There remains an exciting pool of young players who have improved their stock over the last several months.
Orelvis Martinez (SS/3B, 19, High-A, Jays # 3 prospect, #48 MLB)
Hard-core Jays fans are salivating at the potential of Martinez, who has rocketed up the prospect rankings. He projects as a power-hitting left-side infielder. His MLB position is still to be determined, but his raw power is undeniable. His 24 home runs in 90 games between Low-A and High-A ball this season. Expect to keep hearing about this young phenom and he could make his major league debut as early as 2023.
TOR SS Orelvis Martinez showing off some big power here. This was absolutely smacked to left field for a homerun. The camera catches up a little at the end. pic.twitter.com/LIhTB8DZeo
— Trevor Hooth (@HoothTrevor) August 30, 2021
Gabriel Moreno (C, 21, AA, Jays #1, #34 MLB)
The catcher position has seemingly been in a state of constant flux for the Blue Jays. Danny Jansen hasn’t developed the way the organization had hoped he would. Alejandro Kirk belongs at the plate, but behind it, there’s something to be desired. Moreno is mobile, athletic, and has All-Star potential. He’s hit .373 with 8 HR and 45 RBI in 126 at-bats for the New Hampshire Fisher-Cats. He’s also thrown out 44% (14 of 32) of baserunners.
No. 7 Blue Jays prospect Gabriel Moreno is now 4-for-7 as a Fisher Cat!
— New Hampshire Fisher Cats (@FisherCats) May 6, 2021
His RBI double put us up 1-0 in the first inning. pic.twitter.com/hk4k5CIkaO
Kevin Smith (IF/OF, 25, team # 10, unranked)
After grinding in the minors for four years, Smith made his big-league debut on August 18th. He is capable of playing multilple positions,a flexibility that is so coveted in today’s game. Smith can play just about anywhere on the diamond but will likely see most of his time in the corners. He has a competitive fire that reminds me of another Kevin (Pillar) and he hit his first MLB home run on Sunday.
Kevin Smith puts a charge into one for his first MLB home run.
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) August 29, 2021
Read up on the 10th-ranked #BlueJays prospect: https://t.co/E37kpqymXl pic.twitter.com/37ODIdwIdH
Otto Lopez (IF/OF, 22, team #6, unranked)
Like Smith, Lopez made his Blue Jays debut this season. Unfortunately for him, his first experience was practically a “cup of coffee”, a single at-bat on August 17th. Lopez has also developed an ability to play multiple positions. He can play all three outfield spots, plus shortstop and second base this season. The diminutive (5’10”, 160 lbs.) Santo Domingo native has shown good bat skills (.317 avg across AA and AAA levels) and plus speed with 12 steals.
Otto Lopez from the outfield grass AND the shortstop side of the bag!! ? #Bisons | #BlueJays pic.twitter.com/PvFAOaL7Fy
— Buffalo Bisons? (@BuffaloBisons) August 25, 2021
Reese McGuire (C, 26, exceeded rookie limits during 2020 season)
Although he’s no longer a prospect, McGuire is still a young player who could contribute to the team’s success. He found himself outside the 40-man roster at the beginning of the season. A combination of injuries and trades has put McGuire in a position for the most playing time of his young career. He is responding well, hitting .268 with 15 doubles, fourth in the American League amongst catchers. He’s got a good arm and has caught 38% (11/29) of potential base-stealers.
