3 Blue Jays players with the most health concerns In 2024

Kevin Kiermaier

Kiermaier has been a feel-good story in the Blue Jays offseason because the team is bringing back someone who played so well last year. He hit .265 with eight home runs in addition to a fourth Gold Glove award. However, the concern for injury still exists for the soon to be 34-year-old.

Kiermaier had major hip surgery that ended his 2022 season and while he looked good last year, one never knows how those injuries play out. His style of play lends itself to playing CF with reckless abandon where it seems like his body is always stretched out diving for a baseball.

In 2016 he injured himself after diving for a ball and fracturing his hand. 2017 featured only 98 games. In 2018 he was limited to 88 games while in 2020 he actually played in 49 games during the pandemic-shortened season. Ask any Tampa Bay Rays fan about Kiermaier's health and they will likely give you strong responses.

In 2024, the Blue Jays will need Kiermaier to be as healthy as possible. Centerfield is a demanding defensive position and the Rogers Centre turf will be something to watch. The Jays have backup options on hand but would likely prefer to use those players elsewhere on the diamond. If Toronto adds another outfield-capable player to its lineup before spring training, Kiermaier's role may diminish. Daulton Varsho and the newly signed Isiah Kiner-Falefa can handle those CF duties if needed.