Why Brett Bateman has been a game changer for the Blue Jays

When the Toronto Blue Jays dealt long-time ace Kevin Gausman to the Chicago Cubs at the trade deadline, all they really hoped for, were to receive some promising prospects with upside in return. But to everyone's surprise, the Blue Jays got a player who has made an immediate impact on the team. That return has helped thrust Toronto right back into the MLB playoff race. That difference maker just happens to be outfielder Brett Bateman.

It didn’t take long for Bateman to make his debut with Toronto as he was promoted just a few days after the deadline and the Blue Jays look incredibly smart with that decision. It isn't power that the 24-year-old is bringing. He has registered only six total home runs in the minors in his four-year career. But what he is doing with his bat, and his speed, is tormenting the opposition, something the Blue Jays have lacked all year.

Known for his contact-hitting abilities coming up through the Cubs’ minor league system, Bateman has put that on display in the big leagues with the Blue Jays. He's posted a .333 batting average while striking out around 20%, it has made Bateman an actual weapon near the top of the Jays’ lineup.

But what has stood out the most is his game-changing speed. Whether it be laying down bunts, stealing a base, or taking off on a hit-and-run, Bateman has executed exactly when the Blue Jays needed him most. His true value is his elite ability to get on base and generate runs. Bateman has registered 26 hits already in 19 games along with 10 runs scored and three stolen bases.

Brett Bateman has managed to change how opposing pitchers have to approach the Blue Jays' offensive

Bateman's base running skills and awareness were on full display during last Saturday’s game (Aug. 29) against the Seattle Mariners. Bateman scored all the way from second base on a wild pitch, catching Mariners’ reliever Eduard Bazardo totally off guard.

These are the kinds of plays that can help teams win championships. The word "spark plug" immediately comes to mind. The Blue Jays have momentum and opposing pitchers have to be much more aware of this new weapon the Blue Jays can deploy.

Since he was called up, the Blue Jays have a team OBP of .333, eight best in MLB, as well as a .271 batting average, which tops all 30 teams. Over the first 116 games, the Blue Jays had a league worst 91 wRC+, but since Batemans arrival, they have posted a 110 wRC+ which is tied for third best in MLB.

Toronto may be getting some reinforcements soon to bolster their roster heading into September, but one thing is for sure, the Blue Jays better keep Bateman in the lineup if they want to win anything.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow