Following Max Scherzer's MLB free agency decision, the Toronto Blue Jays make an intriguing move.

MLB Rumors: Following Max Scherzer's MLB free agency decision, the Toronto Blue Jays make an intriguing move.

Kevin Kiermaier was just brought back by the Toronto Blue Jays, which was an intriguing move, but he won't be manning center field this time. Rather, he will be joining the front office as a special assistant. This might be a significant move for the Blue Jays as they look to assemble a serious contender with a strong defense, and it comes immediately after Max Scherzer's free agency decision.

After the Los Angeles Dodgers won the 2024 World Series, Kiermaier, who is currently 34, decided to retire. What a career that was, spending 12 years in the major leagues. 

He amassed 905 hits, 95 home runs, 170 doubles, 60 triples, 378 RBIs, and 132 stolen bases while hitting.246 with a.706 OPS across 1,159 games. But it was his glove, not his offense, that made him unique. His outstanding defense was largely responsible for his 36.5 WAR finish.

And few outfielders in MLB history have performed better on defense. Kiermaier led the AL in defensive WAR in 2015 and 2016, won four Gold Gloves and a Platinum Glove, and recorded an amazing 175 Defensive Runs Saved, the most by any center fielder since the statistic's inception in 2003. He is a threat on defense, as seen by his 26.7 career fWAR.

With Kiermaier's experience, the Blue Jays' already potent defensive outfield might get even better. Playing with him in 2023, Daulton Varsho led all MLB outfielders in Total Zone Rating and earned his first Gold Glove award last year. In a deal, the Blue Jays also acquired another Gold Glover, Myles Straw. Although neither player is currently regarded as an excellent defender, George Springer and Anthony Santander, a recent free agent acquisition, will fill the corner outfield positions.

As a mentor and defensive expert, Kevin Kiermaier's new position will require him to work closely with Toronto's outfield players at all levels. With new drills, new methods, and years of experience, he hopes to elevate their outfield defense to a new level. 

For young players like Joey Loperfido, Davis Schneider, and Nathan Lukes as well as emerging prospects, that may be extremely significant.

This offseason, the Blue Jays haven't been timid. With the addition of Jeff Hoffman, Max Scherzer, and Santander, as well as a potential deal for second baseman Andres Gimenez, they have made some significant moves.

Despite having other post-retirement options, including as with the Tampa Bay Rays, Kiermaier ultimately decided on Toronto because of his close bonds with Mark Shapiro and Ross Atkins. The Blue Jays might transform from a respectable team to a strong contender for the championship if his defensive prowess proves effective.