TheToronto Blue Jays acquired three pitchers and two position players at the MLB trade deadline, but with two key players expected back very soon there will be some tough decisions on who plays and who doesn't
Blue Jays face controversial decisions ahead of them.
Tyson Shushkewich of Blue Jays Nation reports that the AL East leaders are going be facing some overpopulation in the clubhouse with the expected returns of Gimenez and Springer looming closer and closer.
The Jays toughest decision ahead will be what to with recently acquired first baseman Ty France when Spring returns.
"While the likely DFA of Buddy Kennedy is on the horizon for Gimenez, the return of Springer makes things a bit more interesting for the Jays. Following the deadline, there was a possibility that France's time with the organization might have been limited until roster moves were needed; however, he has been hitting the ball well following his first few games donning a Jays jersey and that complicates matters."-Shushkewich
While France may have started off slow his bat has quickly heated up going 10 for 28 including four doubles two RBI's and one walk.
"This is where the plot starts to thicken. Once Springer returns, the expectation would likely be that he would return to the DH role, and France might be bumped back to the bench or potentially DFA'd to make room for the veteran Jays outfielder. Does that idea change if France is swinging a hot bat? Perhaps.-Shushkewich
While he have our obvious roster locks of Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Daulton Varsho, Addison Barger, Alejandro Kirk, Tyler Heineman, and Ernie Clement, we could see several players on the chopping block with the return of Springer; such as Nathan Lukes, Myles Straw, Davis Schneider, Joey Loperfido and France.
"All four play in the outfield (similar to Springer), but Schneider has the added benefit of working at second base on occasion. Having that many outfield bats seems like a crowded bench with limited versatility, even if Clement, Barger, and Schneider can play multiple positions."-Shushkewich
If the Jays do not want to lose France they will be forced to send one of those down to the minors. Either way it will not be an easy decision and could ruffle some feathers.