Blue Jays: Why they haven’t cut Kendrys Morales just yet

Injuries have provided the roster space

Morales’ fate may have been sealed by now if not for the long list of injuries to the Blue Jays so far this season. It’s been easier to swallow because they have a winning record, but there have been a ton of missed games from the 25 man roster.

They started the season with Troy Tulowitzki on the 60 man DL, and have since dealt with injuries to Steve Pearce, Randal Grichuk, Aledmys Diaz, Curtis Granderson, a demotion for Devon Travis, and a paternity leave for Justin Smoak. The first three remain on the DL at this time, which has made it easy to find a 25 man roster spot for Teoscar Hernandez. Remember when we were debating how to find room for him on the roster without sending him back to Buffalo?

If there ever comes a time when most or all of that list is healthy and available, it’s really hard to imagine there being a spot left for Morales, unless he really starts mashing at the plate of course. He’ll have a bit of time yet as Grichuk is the only one who is particularly close to returning, and he wasn’t setting the world on fire this year either. However, the time is coming when this roster could be more complete, and if the Blue Jays want to compete they’ll have to put their best nine players on the field, regardless of how much they’re making.

If Tulowitzki and Travis both return they’ll find to find somewhere to place them both along with Josh Donaldson and Yangervis Solarte in the infield. And when Pearce and Grichuk return, the roster squeeze could be felt on Teoscar Hernandez and his minor league option available. Would the Blue Jays really send down one of their best hitters to keep Morales/Grichuk around? I doubt it.