Kevin Kiermaier staying in Toronto Blue Jays on $10.5 million, 1-year contract
Kevin Kiermaier staying in Toronto Blue Jays on $10.5 million, 1-year contract
NEW DELHI: Center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, renowned for his defensive prowess and the recipient of four Gold Glove awards, has agreed to a $10.5 million, one-year contract to remain with the Toronto Blue Jays. The team officially announced the deal on Thursday.
Kiermaier, 33, had an impactful first season with the Blue Jays, batting .265 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs over 129 games. Beyond his offensive contributions, Kiermaier’s exceptional defensive skills earned him his fourth Gold Glove award.
Originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 31st round of the 2010 amateur draft, Kiermaier spent a decade with the Rays before the team declined his $13 million option for the 2023 season. Subsequently, he signed a $9 million, one-year contract with the Blue Jays.
Over his career, Kiermaier has compiled a .249 batting average with 90 home runs, 352 RBIs, and 126 stolen bases across 1,043 major league games.
The Blue Jays, who finished the 2022 season with an 89-73 record and secured a playoff spot as a wild card, have been relatively quiet in the offseason so far. Despite making a bid for Shohei Ohtani, who eventually signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto has not made any major moves. The re-signing of Kiermaier adds stability to their outfield alongside Daulton Varsho and George Springer.
(With AP inputs)
For more news like this visit TOI. Get all the Latest News, City News, India News, Business News, and Sports News. For Entertainment News, TV News, and Lifestyle Tips visit Etimes