Upside of Former Pirates Utility Player For Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays bullpen woes have raised concerns, but on the bright side they claimed a former player off waivers on August 31st. Isiah- Kiner Falefa was claimed off waivers by the Blue Jays from the Pittsburgh Pirates.

IKF was acquired by the Blue Jays for the 2024 offseason and then found a new home with the Pirates. When IKF was on the Blue Jays last season, he showcased upside with his offense.

This season with the Pirates, he has sported a .264 batting average along with one home run and 106 hits across 401 at-bats. As well as 35 RBI and 15 stolen bases. His elite defense hasn’t changed since being on the Blue Jays, which will bolster the infield for the Blue Jays. In addition, having more speed on the base paths will also boost the Blue Jays lineup. The Blue Jays also have Clement, George Springer, and Andrés Giménez, who possess solid speed on the basepaths.

IKF Returns to Blue Jays In Late Stretch of 2025

Analyzing IKF’s Performance in 2024

Kiner-Falefa performed well with the Blue Jays in 2024. In fact, he exceeded expectations with a .292 batting average and solid defense at third base and shortstop. This was apparent during Bo Bichette’s injury absence. Having another third baseman and utility player would benefit the Blue Jays.

The Blue Jays have several successful utility players, such as Ernie Clement and Addison Barger. IKF was seen as a respected and versatile player who demonstrated power that was abnormal for a 30-year-old. IKF is also a former Gold Glove Award winner back in 2020 with the Texas Rangers.

Key Components of his 2024 Performance

He hit .292 with a .758 OPS across 83 games, demonstrating a successful offensive stretch with a 113 wRC+. This will be beneficial as the Blue Jays look to remain first in the AL East and overcome their recent struggles in the bullpen. They will look to rectify this by leaning on Eric Lauer for assistance and transitioning him to the bullpen.

Kiner-Falefa provided superlative defense at both third base and shortstop. This would boost the Blue Jays infield. Having IKF play third would push Barger to the outfield. Barger has already shown solid throwing accuracy while providing outfield assists. Having IKF play third when necessary would be beneficial, given his defensive talent. The Blue Jays ability to move players around allows for versatility and IKF has showcased how he’s a versatile player.

He hit seven home runs in just 281 plate appearances and struck out only 13.2% of the time.

Versatility and Leadership

He was a respected and versatile player within the clubhouse, filling in capably during Bo Bichette’s injuries in 2024. In addition, the familiar face of the franchise had a valuable impact, contributing to the team and playing with confidence.

Last Word On IKF

He was a respected utility man, playing a crucial role while Bichette was on the injured list.

His performance stood out that it gained recognition from the Pirates that led him to his new home with them for most of this season.

Main Photo Credits: Melissa Tamez-Imagn Images

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