Blue Jays: Which prospects are next in line to debut this season?

Mar 18, 2022; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Adrian Hernandez (74) throws a pitch during the fourth inning against the Baltimore Orioles during spring training at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2022; Sarasota, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Adrian Hernandez (74) throws a pitch during the fourth inning against the Baltimore Orioles during spring training at Ed Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
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Blue Jays
Apr 1, 2022; Bradenton, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays left folder Nathan Lukes (81) is congratulated as he scores a run during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates during spring training at LECOM Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Nathan Lukes – OF

One of the last cuts of Spring Training earlier this season, outfielder Nathan Lukes was just on the outside looking in when it comes to roster space. A product of the Tampa Bay Rays system, Lukes joined Toronto this past offseason on a MiLB deal and so far in Buffalo, he is taking advantage of the situation. Through 53 games, Lukes is sporting a .302/.370/.441 slash line with four home runs, 25 RBI, and a .811 OPS (the highest of any qualified players on the squad). Defensively, Lukes has split his time between centre and right field and has four assists on the year with one error.

The Blue Jays currently feature five outfielders on the roster and it will be tough for any outfielder to crack the lineup without someone being placed on the IL or being DFA’d. If Bradley Zimmer had options available, I would guess that Lukes would be in the big leagues instead of the lefty batter but alas, the numbers game has him down in Buffalo. If Lukes can continue to play well and get reps in center field, the Jays may need to make a switch on the bench and bring up the Oregon product and DFA Zimmer and his .406 OPS.

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