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Schneider has officially solidified a starting role for the Blue Jays.
Photo credit: FanGraphs Baseball
Davis Schneider has always had to prove himself where ever he played, but after a a hot start last season and some recent adjustments to his approach and swing, he has solidified himself as an everyday starter for the Toronto Blue Jays.
Just Davis Schneider things. 👨🏻
The man with the glorious mustache has had some high words for his manager and the opportunity that he has been given.
«Honestly, I think Schneids does a really good job of picking the right matchups for me and putting me in good spots,» the second baseman/outfielder Schneider said of his manager, John Schneider. «I know that's been a bit of a frowned-upon thing. But I think it does have a positive effect. It builds confidence in me. They're saying, 'Hey, we really want you in for this guy.'»
Schneider typically started about three times a week and often entered late in games as a pinch-hitter to exploit platoon advantages against left-handed pitchers facing Daulton Varsho, Kevin Kiermaier, or Cavan Biggio.
About a week ago, something changed, he was getting more reps in and becoming an everyday player. In last 10 games, Schneider has the fifth-most plate appearances on the team.
What has helped his case is that Schneider is forcing the hand of his manager, in the last 10 games, Davis is hitting .393/.514/.571 and leading the team in doubles (5) and walks (7).
Schneider has made notable changes to his stance and approach. He used to have a hunched over stance with a toe tap. Now he is way more upright and incorporates a significant leg kick.
«I don't think I'm ever going to be known as a big contact guy. But I'm definitely trying to swing at better pitches to make contact with,» Schneider said. «I'm trying not to chase as much as I did at the end of last year. And part of that is seeing the ball a bit better. If you control your barrel, if your barrel's working the right way, you're going to make more contact. You're going to see pitches a little bit better,» and I think my depth is right where it needs to be right now.»
It cleary has had a huge benefit on his timing and patience at the plate as the numbers are speaking for themselves.
Schneider is a fan favorite and he deserves his shot to show what he can do as an everyday player.
| POLL | ||
MAI 9 | 308 ANSWERS Schneider has officially solidified a starting role for the Blue Jays. Are you happy to see Schneider as an everyday player? | ||
| Yes | 287 | 93.2 % |
| No | 21 | 6.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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