Wednesday Round-up: Jays add Bethancourt, Lovelady; remain in mix for Alonso and Scherzer
It's been a busy week so far the Blue Jays.
The Blue Jays further added to their depth on Wednesday, signing catcher Christian Bethancourt and Richard Lovelady to minor league deals.
Although Alejandro Kirk is cemented as the Blue Jays number one catcher, many feel that the team could use an upgrade over Tyler Heineman. Bethancourt will certainly be in the mix for the job, though he won't get it outright.
The 33 year old Panamanian has bounced around the majors, suiting up for the Braves, Padres, Athletics, Rays, Marlins and Cubs without ever really finding a home. He also spent a year in Korea with the KC Dinos. For his career, Bethancourt is a 229 hitter with 35 home runs and 135 RBIs.
In Lovelady, the Blue Jays add to their pitching depth with a left-hander who can fill the middle innings. Originally drafted by Kansas City in 10th round of the 2016 draft, Lovelady has appeared in parts of five seasons with the Royals, Athletics, Cubs and Rays. He is 5-12 with a 4.98 ERA and three saves for his career.
Beyond the signings, the Blue Jays continue to be connected to high-profile free agents. After earlier reporting the team's interest in three-time Cy Young Award-winner and future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer, MLB Insider Jon Heyman said he expects the former ace to land with the Jays, but only if they add another bat, specifically somebody like Pete Alonso.
Speaking of the Mets first baseman, the Blue Jays are said to be interested in the Polar Bear, and it turns out these feelings might be mutual. New York appears to be moving on from the All-Star, and the Blue Jays and Angels are said to be actively engaging in conversations with the four-time All-Star.
It could be a big couple of weeks ahead.
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