Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer has regressed in the final year of his six-year, $150 million contract.
Just one season ago, Springer made a full transition to designated hitter instead of the outfield and thrived at the plate, finishing seventh in American League MVP voting. He also came up huge in October, helping lead Toronto back to the World Series for the first time in over 30 years.
This season has been a different story. Springer has performed better in the second half, posting a .239 batting average, .316 on-base percentage, .704 OPS, 12 home runs and 41 RBIs, but his overall numbers remain well below what the Blue Jays need from him.
John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The Blue Jays entered Thursday’s series finale against the Kansas City Royals looking to take another series win. Toronto has played better baseball as of late, but it is still a tall task for them to make the postseason and they need to continue building momentum.
As the games start to mean more, a handful of Blue Jays players made the personal decision to take matters into their own hands, participating in early live batting practice on the field before Thursday’s game.
Springer was included in that group, making an adjustment in his personal routine by stepping outside the cages and onto the field, according to Mitch Bannon of The Athletic.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who also decided to participate, is similarly in the midst of a down season, making this a big development for two of the team’s most important offensive contributors simultaneously deciding to change their approach with the postseason on the line.
Time will tell if it pays dividends, but the Blue Jays will certainly hope so. First pitch against the Royals is set for 7:07 p.m. EDT at Rogers Centre.
Toronto Blue Jays Essentials
- The greatest Blue Jays pitchers of all-time
- 5 best hitters in Blue Jays history
- The greatest Blue Jays shortstops of all-time
- 5 best outfielders in Blue Jays history
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s net worth, MLB salary, and bonuses
