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Blue Jays Defensive Specialist is Team’s Most Underrated Offseason Acqusition

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Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Myles Straw has given fans several reasons to smile with his performance this season, in particular on defense. This is nothing new, as the 30-year-old won a Gold Glove Award in 2022 as an outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians. He was acknowledged for his high-caliber defense, which also earned him a Fielding Bible Award that year. Straw has recorded a 2.65 DRS across 100 innings this season. His speed has also been impressive, with 22 stolen bases and 97 career stolen bases.

Aug 19, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Myles Straw (3) makes a catch for an out against Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Andrew McCutchen (not pictured) during the sixth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Blue Jays Outfielder Myles Straw Standing Tall at the Plate and on Defense

Straw’s Performance this Season

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In the Blue Jays 4-1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday, Straw stood out, providing three hits across three at-bats, but they were unable to capitalize on his offense. But he stayed hot at the plate in Sunday afternoon’s 8-4 victory, as he recorded two hits across three at-bats with two RBI and one run.

Straw has been an all-around player this season providing clutch hits, speed, and top-tier defense. He also made an impressive catch taking away a home run from Jackson Chourio in Saturday’s game. Straw has been a valuable asset to the Blue Jays in the outfield and on the basepaths.

What Straw Has to Offer

When Straw was initially acquired in the offseason, the move was overlooked. Now, as we look at his performance this season, there’s no doubt that he’s underrated. His sprint speed ranks in the 95th percentile at 29.4 mph. In addition, his OAA ranks in the 96th percentile with nine.

Straw is having his best offensive season since 2021. But it’s his defense that continues to establish him as an elite addition to the team. His 14 defensive runs saved make him a key player on the Blue Jays, tying him for 12th among MLB fielders.
Talk about impressive for a player who was largely overlooked this offseason. He is earning $6 million this year and $7 million in 2026, and is guaranteed a $1.75 million buyout of a 2027 team option.

His defensive play in center field has been top-notch this season. When Daulton Varsho hasn’t been able to play center field, Straw has practically matched his Gold Glove talent. As a defensive specialist and fourth outfielder, he’s a solid defensive replacement. His highlight-reel catches this season have been stellar.

Valuable Impact

While not a major offensive threat, his 63 hits in 2025 have showcased how he’s able to produce and provide clutch hits. Also, his exceptional defense and playmaking capabilities in the outfield have given the Blue Jays a reason to put him in the lineup as much as possible.

Myles Straw has been a reliable player, and this has been apparent when injuries have taken place with other outfielders. While his Gold Glove talent is his primary way of contributing, his base-stealing abilities and speed add to his value. It will be compelling to see how Straw performs in September as the Blue Jays look to remain in the top spot in the AL East. 

Main Photo Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

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