Kevin Kiermaier's response to being placed on waivers shows why he's a class act

On Thursday, Blue Jays fans were shocked to discover that outfielder Kevin Kiermaier was placed on revocable waivers. It occurred during the series finale with the Giants which saw the Blue Jays win their second straight series, but Kiermaier wasn't informed of the news until he returned to the clubhouse post-game.

The news was first reported by Joel Sherman of the New York Post whilst Kiermaier was enjoying a multi-hit game and even robbed former Blue Jay Matt Chapman of extra bases. Speaking to Arden Zwelling, Kiermaier understands the situation which the Blue Jays find themselves in particularly with the trade deadline looming and they're eight games under .500. He also added: 'I totally get it with the way I've played, I'm not offended or mad.'

Unfortunately, Kiermaier hasn't been able to replicate his numbers from 2023, where he posted a .741 OPS, so far he's batting .188 with a .524 OPS in 72 games. He has $4.5 million left of his $10.5million he signed in the offseason. Prior to Friday's game, it was reported by Hazel Mae that Kiermaier cleared waivers, therefore the Blue Jays will likely continue to rely on him as their every day center fielder - unless they can line up on a trade involving him. If a trade comes together, the Jays would likely need to eat some of his remaining salary.

This is the first time in his major-league career he's found himself in this position; he noted that 'it was a wake up call and a chance for a contending team to claim me.' Kiermaier started in center field in the series opener Friday night and went 0-for-3 with an RBI. Whatever happens in the coming days, he promises: 'to go out there and play like I always do.' Although he hasn't been the best offensively, many will miss the four-time Gold Glove winner's outstanding defence, his leadership and his love for the game. Kiermaier isn't fazed with his future, he's a class act and the majority of the fanbase will be sad to see him depart.