Blue Jays firing hitting coach after finishing 23rd in runs scored

According to reports cited by TSN’s Scott Mitchell, the Toronto Blue Jays are firing hitting instructor Guillermo Martinez after six seasons. In terms of runs scored, the Blue Jays came in at number 23. Martinez began his career with the Blue Jays as an infield and hitting coach in the minor leagues. He was elevated to hitting coach in 2018 to take Brook Jacoby’s post.

Toronto’s batting average (.241) placed them 19th at the end of the year. Their dismal season was mostly caused by Bo Bichette, who had career-worst overall figures. He broke his finger on September 17 and hasn’t played since. Bichette’s season was ruined by injuries for the most part, and it appears that he was playing with a lot of pain. Additionally, the rumor mill said that Bichette might be traded before to the trade deadline.

Throughout 2024, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was one athlete that never missed a beat. According to Shi Davidi of Sportsnet, former Blue Jays player Edwin Encarnacion praised VGJ and his ability to produce even with less protection in the lineup.

“His actions have been impressive.” When I used to play, I can see in the mirror that I had 200 hits in addition to 100 RBIs and 30 home runs. That’s insane, man. The fans must find enjoyment in it. The crew is really pleased with Vladdy and where we are at this point. “He is an incredible hitter and player,” Encarnacion remarked.

The Blue Jays lost eight of their last ten games and ended the season 74-88.
RHP Trey Yesavage is the lone player from Toronto included among the MLB Top 100 prospects. The Blue Jays selected the 21-year-old out of East Carolina in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft.

Orelvis Martinez, a 2B/3B, is another player the Blue Jays are waiting to develop. He was a major foreign acquisition in 2018, and since 2021, he has led the minor leagues in home runs with 86.

It appears like RHPs Erik Swanson and Dillon Tate will no longer be a part of the squad. Both athletes significantly underperformed in 2024.

For offensive lineman George Springer, who is contracted until 2026 for little more than $24.1 million a season, the future is likewise uncertain. In Toronto, the 35-year-old simply never appeared to settle into his power groove. He used to be a Houston All-Star, but now he routinely produces a lackluster slash line every season.