Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Juan Yepez is officially searching for a new home after his release, and this unexpected plot twist is exactly the fresh start his career needs.
The news of his departure from the Blue Jays organization definitely stings. Losing your roster spot during the final weeks of spring training is incredibly tough.
The front office gave him a brief look in camp before making the difficult decision to move on. The battle for those final bench spots is always a numbers game.
He has faced an immense amount of adversity since bursting onto the scene a few years ago. Getting back up after a sudden release tests your ultimate resolve.
The 28-year-old slugger (Signed as International Free Agent, 2014 by Atlanta Braves) still possesses raw power. That natural ability to drive the baseball simply does not vanish.
The reality is that the competition for playing time in Toronto was incredibly crowded from the start. Finding consistent at-bats was always going to be an uphill battle.
Sometimes a complete change of scenery is the perfect medicine for a player looking to secure a permanent role. He can now reset his approach without a heavy depth chart blocking him.
A new environment sparks the ultimate baseball revival
We all just want to see him find his timing again and crush baseballs like he used to. Hearing that he gets another chance to catch on elsewhere brings a sigh of relief.
Another franchise will absolutely take a flyer on his right-handed pop. Teams are constantly hunting for cheap power options to stash in their minor league system.
Let's not forget the impressive offensive flashes he has shown at the highest level. He posted a .283 AVG with 6 HR and a .764 OPS during his last major league stint.
Those numbers prove the barrel control is still hiding in his swing. He just needs an everyday role to find his rhythm and confidence against big league pitching.
He can quietly go to work in a new complex and rebuild his mechanics pitch by pitch. The pressure of making a crowded roster is entirely off his shoulders now.
The comeback trail is long, but his story is far from over. Elite talent always finds a way to resurface when the mindset is right.
Keep a close watch on the waiver wire over the next few days. Someone is going to give him the canvas he needs to paint his masterpiece.
Also read on Toronto Baseball Insider :
The Toronto Blue Jays release another pitcher
The Toronto Blue Jays release another pitcher
| POLL | ||
MARS 23|180 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays release infielder ahead of Opening Day Will Juan Yepez sign with a new team and successfully rebuild his career in the minor leagues? | ||
| Yes | 92 | 51.1 % |
| No | 88 | 48.9 % |
| List of polls | ||