The Return for Andres Gimenez
The Blue Jays have finalized a deal that sees three time Gold-Glove winner Andres Gimenez come to Toronto in their first big move of the offseason.
Toronto is also getting RHP Nick Sandlin as part of the deal.
While the official return hasn't been announced it is known that 1B/2B Spencer Horwitz is part of the deal
Gimenez is an elite defender having won three straight gold gloves. While his hitting leaves something to be desired, he did club 17 home runs in 2022.
In addition to elite defensive skills, Gimenez is also a whiz on the baspaths, having swiped thirty bags last year.
Gimenez is under contract until 2029, with a club option for 2030, while Horwitz is arbitration-eligible in 2027.
If Gimenez sticks, the Blue Jays could boast one of the best defensive infields for years to come. 1st baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr also has a gold glove, while 3rd baseman Ernie Clement was a finalist this past season.
Plus, Gimenez could easily slide over to shortstop if Bo Bichette signs elsewhere after next season.
Horwitz was a beloved figure in the Blue Jays clubhouse and performed admirably in first full season,hitting 12 home runs in 87 games while having an OPS+ of 125. However, with Vlad Guerrero entrenched at 1st and the emergence of Will Wagner, there wasn't everyday playing time available for Horwitz.
Also coming over with Gimenez is RHP Nick Sandlin. After going 8-0 in 68 games for the Guardians last year - including one start and one save - Sandlin figures to slide perfectly into a middle relief role for the Blue Jays.
