A look at some of the Toronto Blue Jays news and notes with updates on Darwin Barney, Travis Shaw, Josh Donaldson and more.
Barney To Manage Triple-A
Former Blue Jays player Darwin Barney has been hired by the Texas Rangers to manage their Triple-A affiliate in Nashville. This will be the 34-year olds first attempt at managing after last playing in the majors in 2017.
Barney was acquired by the Blue Jays at the end of the 2015 season from the Dodgers and then spent the two following seasons north of the border. Barney is a former Gold Glove winner while with the Chicago Cubs in 2012.
Shaw Speaks To The Media
Travis Shaw spoke to the media for the first time since signing with the Blue Jays. Shaw said the team showed serious interest in him as soon as he became a free agent making it a no-brainer. The infielder also spoke about a failed swing modification that led to his struggles last season, Shaw is confident his swing has been rectified and he will be back to his former self in 2020.
Travis Shaw said #BlueJays showed "serious interest" as soon as he became a free agent. "For me it was kind of a no-brainer once they presented that strong offer ... couldn't be more excited"
— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) January 3, 2020
More from Toronto Blue Jays News
- Blue Jays: Alek Manoah on pace to succeed in possible postseason
- Blue Jays: Bradley Zimmer has carved himself a valuable role
- Anthony Bass has been the shutdown reliever the Blue Jays needed
- Blue Jays: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. open to a long-term contract
- Blue Jays: Snapping cold streaks at the right time
Donaldson Mulling Over Multiple Offers
Former Blue Jays MVP Josh Donaldson is mulling multiple offers that are reportedly in excess of $100 million dollars. The Braves, Rangers, Twins, and Nationals are said to be expressing the most interest in the slugger.
The Jays traded Donaldson to the Indians in August of 2018 for minor league pitcher Julian Merryweather. The 28-year old made only two starts last season in the minors as he was rehabilitating back from Tommy John surgery.
Delgado To Attend WinterFest
The Blue Jays announced today that former slugger Carlos Delgado will be in attendance for their upcoming Winterfest on January 18th and 19th at the Rogers Centre. This will be the first time that Delgado joins the alumni for the annual fan event.