Toronto Blue Jays 2018 Outfield Depth Chart

Teoscar Hernandez:

Hernandez, by virtue of having minor league option years available, will likely begin 2018 in AAA Buffalo. This minor league assignment will provide a more accurate picture of who Hernandez will be for the Blue Jays in the future. During his September call-up, Hernandez quickly won the hearts of Blue Jays fans with his strong offensive play. However, a month is not a true test of a young ballplayer and his time in the minors will show how successful he may be in the future. Last year, in his collective minor league stats, Hernandez held a .265/.351/.490 slash with 18 HR and 66 RBIs. While not amazing, an .841 OPS is nothing to scoff at.

Defensively, there is also room to improve. Across two teams last year, Hernandez converted putouts on 125/135 defensive chances. However, with plus speed and arm strength—fangraphs scouts him as a 50-55 in both categories on an 80—Hernandez has the raw ability to be a plus defender in the majors. Perhaps a year with one coaching staff and no trade rumours will allow Hernandez the focus he needs to develop a complete game.

Ezequiel Carrera:

The only upside that Carrera has in his game is his offense. With a quick, slashing stroke, Carrera can get on base and spray the ball across the park. Holding a respectable .282/.356/.408 slash line and weak power numbers, Carrera can’t be expected to produce much more than singles when he comes to the plate.

Defensively, Carrera is essentially the anti-Pillar. Although he does have good speed, it is clear that he does not have a good feel for the position. Last year there were many times that Carrera seemed lost in left field. The numbers only prove this perception of his defensive skill. Across all three outfield positions, Carrera has a collective .973 fielding percentage, four errors, five assists, and was worth -14 Rdrs. Despite these lacking numbers, the Blue Jays will likely carry him on the roster out of spring training.

Next: Blue Jays: Health is the elixir for successful 2018 campaign