The Toronto Blue Jays are looking ahead. They've got a playoff push to make in September, and then playoff series to win in October.
One of the best ways to do that is to have a solid utility player who can do lots of different things for your ballclub, and they added one of those on Sunday.
ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Blue Jays have claimed Isiah Kiner-Falefa off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The timing is key, because the acquisition taking place on Aug. 31 (before Sept. 1) makes IKF eligible for the postseason.
Kiner-Falefa spent the first portion of the 2024 season with the Blue Jays. In 83 games with Toronto last year, Kiner-Falefa batted .292.
He's a career .262 hitter with 808 career MLB hits.
IKF has suited up for the Rangers, Yankees, Blue Jays and Pirates.
This season in Pittsburgh, he's batting .264 with 20 doubles, 35 RBI and 15 stolen bases.
His best calling card is his ability to play all over the field.
This season, Kiner-Falefa has played shortstop and third base.
Last season in Toronto, he appeared in centerfield and at second base, as well.
IKF has played all three outfield spots in his MLB career. And he came to the majors as a catcher, although he hasn't caught in years now.
The Blue Jays' current utility guy, Ernie Clement, is attempting to play through injury. The acquisition of IKF could help protect Clement's health for a little while as he heals up, or it could be a complimentary move.
Either way, it's Toronto doing what it can to make its team better for the stretch run, and that's not a bad idea.
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