Blue Jays: Luis Rivera reportedly could stay with the team

Though there was some doubt as to whether or not the Blue Jays third base coach would remain on the staff, new reports clarified the likelihood of him staying.

This weekend, two Blue Jays coaches, Brook Jacoby and Tim Leiper, were relieved of their duties. Soon after, speculation arose as to whether or not the remaining coaches would still have jobs come next season. Pete Walker, is, according to an insider, likely to stay on, but what about third base coach Luis Rivera?

As Bob Elliott of the Canadian Baseball Network reports on Twitter, Rivera is “expected to be named to the staff of Charlie Montoyo”. Entertainingly enough, Elliott doesn’t specify which position Rivera would fill. Could he still be the third base coach, or will he move spots?

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At the surface, it doesn’t seem overly surprising that Rivera is being (reportedly) retained by new manager Charlie Montoyo. A native of Puerto Rico, Rivera has, despite some criticism from fans due to his penchant for being aggressive on the base paths, done quite a good job in his position.

A member of the major league coaching staff since 2010, Rivera was formerly a member of the Cleveland Indians organization after a 12-year playing career in which he logged time with the now defunct Montreal Expos, the Boston Red Sox, and the New York Mets, among others.

Rivera, like the other member of the current major league coaching staff, is under contract for next season. At this point, it is unknown as to whether a potential extension is in the works for certain members of the coaching staff.

While minor, Rivera staying on the coaching staff could shift the strategic approach of the new Blue Jays. A veteran of coaching third, his fate is by no means determined. More to come.