Times Up for Dalton Pompey, Demoted to Buffalo

Dalton Pompey turned the Blue Jays world on its ear with a strong 2014 and he made even the casual Blue Jay fans fall in love when he was called up to Toronto to finish the year. His performance made it easier to part ways with Colby Rasmus and not rush out to sign a replacement. 

Pompey strengths were expected to be his defense, advanced approach at the plate, and speed on the bases. Things haven’t quit worked out as planned. After another 0-for-4 night with 2 strike outs, he was hitting below .200. His struggles over the first month went beyond hitting extending into the field. Recently, Kevin Pillar had taken over the center field job and now after 22 games he received word that he was being demoted.

The demotion of a 21 year-old should never be viewed as a bad thing. Instead, we should look at the positives. Dalton will have a chance to get regular at-bats and won’t have the pressure to perform in Buffalo. There is no denying that Pompey has the talent to be an everyday major league player, but the Blue Jays may have jumped the gun in hoping that he could be a contributor in 2015.

Ezequiel Carrera will assume the 4th outfield role on the Blue Jays bench. Carrera has gotten of to a solid start with the Herd. The 27 yr-old brings speed, major league experience (176GP), and he doesn’t need to play everyday.

Ezequiel Carrera’s Stats

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Andrew Albers will accompany Pompey to Buffalo. Albers played in last night’s game, pitching 2.2IP and will likely rejoin the Bisons rotation.

Hot start Scott Copeland will finally be given a well deserved look, as he was called up from Buffalo to take Albers spot. Scott Copeland was selected in the 21st round in the 2010 First-Year Player Draft by the Baltimore Orioles. The 6’3″ RHP was signed by the Blue Jays in 2012 as a minor league free agent. Since signing with the Blue Jays, the native of White Oak Texas has collected 24 wins and 18 losses. He’s been a Pitcher of the Week (2014) and selected to the Mid-Season All-Star as a member of the Dunedin Blue Jays in 2013.

Scott Copeland’s Stats

In all likelihood John Gibbons will give Copeland his first taste of major league action today with Aaron Sanchez taking the mound. Both Daniel Norris and Aaron Sanchez have struggled with control in the early going and I’d expect Sanchez will punch his ticket to Buffalo if he struggles against the Cleveland Indians.

Good luck in Buffalo Dalton and welcome to Toronto Scott Copeland and Carrera.

Next: Daniel Norris Sent Down too