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Nathan Lukes
The magical encore performance of Nathan Lukes for the second straight spring training can no longer go unnoticed. After spending his entire career in the minors, Lukes finally caught the attention of the Jays’ brass at age 28 last spring when he hit .286 with an OPS close to .800, along with 6 runs scored, 2 doubles, 2 triples, 6 RBI while walking more than striking out in 19 spring games played. In doing so, he beat out prospective hopeful Addison Barger for a final spot on the Opening Day roster in 2023.
This year, Lukes has been at it again and has actually been even more impressive, compiling a stellar .394 batting average with a .977 OPS, along with 6 runs scored, 3 doubles, 1 triple, 5 RBI and a stolen base to boot in just 13 games of action. Added to the fact he has been strong defensively as well, making all the plays in the field with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage, he is certainly making a strong case to be included once again on the 26-man roster to start the 2024 season with the Jays.
With some of his main competition such as Alan Roden, Cam Eden and Davis Schneider all having just average showings in their spring performances thus far, it might just be enough to convince management to give Lukes his well-deserved spot for Opening Day. Just hopefully this time around, he will get a fair chance to show what he can do. Since last season, he ended up being used only sparingly, limiting his overall effectiveness and impact in the end.