Blue Jays Minor League Depth – Second Base

Mar 11, 2014; Lakeland, FL, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Devon Travis (74) tags out Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Ryan Goins (17) at second base on a stolen base attempt during the seventh inning at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Minor League Reserves

–Ramon Santiago– Super utility

Last season with the Reds Santiago played any where they would let him. He mostly stuck to the second base, short stop, and third. He did make it into one game in left field also. His fielding is solid and he only committed 5 errors in 75 games for the Reds. In the batter’s box however he is very comparable to Steve Tolleson. Last season he batted .246 with 2 home runs and 17 RBI. He will provide nice depth in case of injury but I would imagine he is meant to fill a similar role that Steve Tolleson is already holding.

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Breakout Candidates

–Devon Travis– Wave of the future?

Devon Travis is probably the most talented individual on this list. The big question is he ready for a Major League job or does he need more time to gain experience in the minors. Last season with the Tigers Double – A team he managed to hit .298 with 10 home runs and 52 RBI in 100 games. Adding to his skill set he has some speed. He swiped 16 bases in those same 100 games. Travis is an all around player though not just a bat. At second he only made 11 errors in 429 chances for a .974 fielding percentage. His defense has continued to improve throughout his minor league career and should carry well at the Major League level. I look forward to seeing him in a Jay’s uniform. The question is when will we see him in that uniform. If he has a good spring I would not be surprised if that is opening day.

Toronto Blue Jays

–Jon Berti– Tireless Worker

This speed demon has the tools to be a great second baseman. He performs well on both defense and offense. In 436 chances last season with AA New Hampshire he had 14 errors for a .968 fielding percentage. He has also hit well at each level so far. Last year he spent a full season with New Hampshire and batted .270 in 136 games. The standout part of his offense is definitely his speed. Berti Stole 50 bases last season which contributed to him scoring 69 runs. He is a line drive hitter with some pop that seems to be increasing. He was able to hit 7 home runs last year but I would not expect that to increase much more. Look for him to rack up a lot of doubles and possibly triples due to his speed.