Rudy Martin Jr. is back with the Blue Jays. The outfielder re-signed on a minor league deal that includes an invite to big-league camp.

It's a quick turnaround. Toronto outrighted Martin to Triple-A Buffalo last week, and he elected free agency rather than accept the assignment.

Now he's returned anyway, this time with a spring training invite attached.

His story is one of persistence. Martin made his MLB debut with the Jays this past September, 12 years after being drafted.

The 30-year-old got only a short look in the majors. Like much of Toronto's bench, he finished with negative bWAR in limited playing time.

So why bring him back? Because depth without a 40-man cost is valuable this winter.

Rudy Martin Jr.'s deal keeps outfield depth off the 40-man roster

The Jays need every roster spot they can find. Rule 5 protection decisions for Nolan Perry and Gage Stanifer are due Nov. 17.

Every free-agent signing will require a 40-man spot, too. Keeping Martin on a minor league deal gives Toronto insurance without the roster squeeze.

He'll have competition. The outfield already includes Addison Barger, Anthony Santander, Brett Bateman, Nathan Lukes and Jonatan Clase.

This is exactly how the outright-and-re-sign route should work. Toronto keeps a familiar depth piece and clears the 40-man spot it needed.

It's like moving a favourite jacket from the front closet to the storage bin. It's still in the house if the weather turns.

Spring training gives him a stage. A strong camp could put him in line for a call-up when injuries hit again.

Daz Cameron's release earlier this week left an opening for outfield depth in the upper minors. Martin fills it.

Twelve years to reach the majors shows patience. The question now is whether a second chance in Toronto turns into more than a September cameo.