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Two Blue Jays Who Have Exceeded Expectations This Season

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This season, Tyler Heineman and Mason Fluharty have exceeded expectations for the Toronto Blue Jays. Both have provided the team with a boost and continue to play with confidence.

May 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Mason Fluharty (68) delivers a pitch against the Boston Red Sox in the seventh inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Heineman, Fluharty Exceeding Expectations for Blue Jays

Heineman’s Strengths this Season

Heineman has enjoyed a successful 2025 season as a backup catcher. A journeyman who’s had multiple stints with Toronto, when Heineman hit his first home run this season, it was the first home run hit in the majors since 2019.

The 34-year-old has been hitting for a high average (.339) while putting up solid offensive production in 47 games.

Little did we think that his role would provide much value to the team’s success. This is evident alongside his fellow catcher Alejandro Kirk. Both have provided solid defense behind the dish.

Heineman is hitting well above his career average, showcasing a significant improvement in his offense. His presence in the lineup has been refreshing, as he’s been a threat at the plate. His defense behind the plate has also been noteworthy, as he’s thrown out base stealers effectively.

He is also contributing with hits, RBI, and even the occasional home run, making him a reliable offensive option when needed. Heineman has been on three separate stints with the Blue Jays.

Heineman even stepped in to pitch in a recent blowout win over the Texas Rangers.

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Improved Offensive Approach
Heineman seems to have found a better understanding of his offensive capabilities and is taking advantage of opportunities at the plate. 
Valuable Backup

Heineman has provided excellent support to Alejandro Kirk, forming a strong catching duo that has been a key part of the Blue Jays’ success this season. 

Positive Advanced Stats
His advanced defensive stats also show positive contributions behind the plate, further highlighting his overall value to the team.

Fluharty’s Impressive Rookie Season

Fluharty has had a season of ups and downs for the Blue Jays, marked by both strong performances and a stint in Triple-A.

He’s shown flashes of brilliance, including a recent save where he inherited a bases-loaded situation and retired former MVPs Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts. However, his ERA has fluctuated, and he was sent back to Triple-A Buffalo for a period to work on his consistency. 

Strengths

Fluharty has demonstrated a strong strikeout ability, with 45 strikeouts across 43 2/3 innings. He also has a strong feel for his pitches, specifically with his slider and cutter, which he uses to produce whiffs. 

Recent Performance

In a recent outing, he showcased his ability to handle high-pressure situations, earning a save by striking out Ohtani and getting Betts to ground out with the bases loaded. This performance has fueled optimism that he can be a valuable bullpen piece for the Blue Jays. 

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Future Outlook
Fluharty has the potential to be a reliable reliever for the Blue Jays. To do this, he needs to build on his recent success and maintain his command and effectiveness. His development will be crucial for the Blue Jays’ bullpen as they push for a playoff spot and to clinch the AL East.

 

Main Photo Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

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