The Toronto Blue Jays received some good news on Thursday afternoon.
Daulton Varsho had a media availability Thursday afternoon and noted that he’s throwing from 120 feet and he’s ahead of schedule, this coming from Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae.
Some even better news though, as Varsho will designate hit on Friday in one of the two split squad games for the Blue Jays.
In the middle of September, Daulton Varsho underwent right rotator cuff surgery, ending his 2024 season and putting the start of his 2025 season in jeopardy. The good news is that he’s ahead of schedule, albeit it’s unclear if he’ll start the season on the Injured List.
Offensively, Varsho’s second season with the Blue Jays was okay. He finished the season slashing .214/.293/.407 with 18 home runs in 513 plate appearances for a 99 wRC+ and a 3.3 fWAR, getting considerably hot in months that start with the letter “A”.
However, the 28-year-old outfielder is touted for his defence, and for good reason. Between centre field and left field, Varsho played 3770.1 innings with 28 Defensive Runs Saved and 16 Outs Above Average. The season prior, he had 29 DRS and 11 OAA in 1280 innings. In the past two years, no outfielder even comes close to producing those defensive numbers. Hopefully, the shoulder surgery doesn’t impact his defence at all.
If Varsho isn’t good to go before the start of the season, the Blue Jays have multiple options they could use in centre field. Prospect Jonatan Clase was acquired from the Seattle Mariners before the 2024 trade deadline and had a good showing after Varsho went down with injury, slashing .350/.435/.550 with a home run in 23 plate appearances.
Nathan Lukes is another player who deserves a look if Varsho is out to start the 2025 season. Last season, Lukes slashed .303/.371/.447 with a home run in 91 plate appearances for a 132 wRC+, although he profiles better in a corner outfield spot.
Of course, the Blue Jays could always briefly play George Springer in centre field. This would also open up a spot in the corner outfield, likely for Joey Loperfido, Davis Schneider, or maybe even Alan Roden depending on his Spring Training.
All in all, it’s good to see Varsho is progressing, hopefully he’s ready by the time the season starts.