3 Blue Jays players who are already earning more playing time, 2 who deserve less

Addison Barger: Deserves a little less playing time

Barger's inclusion on this might seem a little unfair since he's only played in six games since being called up.

Unfortunately he's struggled since his promotion, which is reminiscent of how he was during his first call-up last year. The 25-year-old utilityman has gone 1-for-15 so far this year with one walk and four strikeouts.

On the other hand, Barger has had a bit more success in the field, holding a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage while recording three outfield assists in a game against the Mariners last week.

But the Jays' offense is mired in a deep slump right now, so they can't really afford to have a bat as cold as his in the lineup.

As a result, look for Barger’s playing time to be cut back until he proves that he can handle major league pitching.

Tyler Heineman: Earned more playing time

Finally we have the biggest surprise of the Jays’ 2025 season in Heineman.

It's quite rare for one player to have three separate stints with an organization, but that's exactly what's happened with Heineman and the Blue Jays.

Heineman was acquired three separate times by the Blue Jays over the last three seasons, but they made sure his 2024 acquisition stuck when they kept him on the 40-man roster for the entire offseason.

And he's made that decision look great by being one of the best hitters on the Jays this season.

In eight games of action, Heineman has compiled a sparkling .500 batting average and 1.250 OPS, along with three doubles, one home run, five RBI and a stolen base.

In comparison, starting catcher Alejandro Kirk is hitting just .234 with two doubles, one home run and six RBI in 17 games.

Heineman’s hot bat should earn him more plate appearances in the near future. In fact, the Jays could potentially convert the current starter/backup catcher setup into more a platoon tandem to take full advantage of his offensive prowess.