The Toronto Blue Jays had a disappointing season, missing out on postseason play. Given how wide open the American League has been this year, sneaking in would have given them a real chance.
Catcher Alejandro Kirk did everything he could in the second half to help aid the push for postseason baseball at Rogers Centre once again. The 27-year-old posted a .314 batting average, .388 on-base percentage, .851 OPS, eight home runs and 34 RBIs over 53 games after the All-Star break.
He was the most impactful all-around player for the Blue Jays given how much value he also provides defensively behind the plate.
Kirk is fortunately still under contract through 2030, so he will be a big part of whatever Toronto builds in 2027. However, Kirk is making an impact on this year’s MLB playoffs in an unexpected way.
© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Kirk participated in the World Baseball Classic back in February, suiting up for Team Mexico. Some of his teammates from that tournament are now in the playoffs, including Tampa Bay Rays All-Star Jonathan Aranda.
Aranda is on his first deep postseason run with the Rays, who are just one win away from reaching the World Series, and he credited Kirk’s wisdom as part of the reason for his success.
Kirk told Aranda to just have fun and be himself, and the advice has resonated. “That’s honestly helped me a lot to kind of slow the game down and enjoy the moment and embrace this challenge of what is October baseball,” Aranda said, via Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.
It is paying off. Through 10 postseason games, Aranda has collected 10 hits including a home run, added three walks and has been a huge part of Tampa Bay’s offense during their run.
Kirk may not be in the playoffs himself, but he is still making an impact with one of his close friends.
