Rajai Davis Returning to Blue Jays in 2013

Aug 14, 2012; Toronto, ON, Canada; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder Rajai Davis (11) leads off from third base against the Chicago White Sox at the Rogers Centre. The White Sox beat the Blue Jays 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-US PRESSWIREThe Toronto Blue Jays thought long and hard about whether or not to exercise the 2013 club option on outfielder Rajai Davis. In the end, the club ultimately decided to decline the option.

But not before coming to agreement with Davis on a 1-year contract.

The two parties came to an agreement on a one-year deal worth $2.5 million for the 2013 season. The deal is a win-win for both parties, as it keeps Davis in Toronto for another season while also netting the Blue Jays a savings of $500,000 on their 2013 payroll. Davis will still receive the $500,000, but as a buy-out, it will be placed on the 2012 payroll and will not have any impact on the 2013 team.

Davis is coming off of a season that saw him appear in 142 games for the Blue Jays in 2012. He would hit .257 with a career high 8 home runs while driving in 43 ans scoring 64. Davis finished second in the American League in stolen bases behind Mike Trout of the Angels, with 46. Davis would however lead the league by getting caught stealing 13 times in 2012.

It is expected that the Blue Jays will make an upgrade in left field, essentially relegating Davis to a back-up role as a fourth outfielder and pinch-runner. If Toronto cannot find a suitable upgrade, Davis may platoon in left field with prospect Anthony Gose.