Valenzuela Shines in Blue Jays Camp

0:00Here's more Toronto Blue Jays news from March 18th. Toronto Blue Jays fans have a new name to watch this spring. Catching prospect, Brandon Valenzuela is turning heads in training camp. With Alejandro Kirk away at the World Baseball Classic for Mexico, Valenzuela stepped up and grabbed more at bats. The 25-year-old has shown real promise behind the plate. The Jays picked up Valenzuela at the 2025 trade deadline. He's known as a top defender in the minors, but his bat needed work. Last season across two levels, he hit 224 with 15 home runs and 58 runs, batted in over 113 games. This spring, things look different. In 11 games, he's slashing 304 over 370 slash 478 with one homer, five RBI, and better contact overall. General manager Ross Atkins praised his progress during the extra playing time. Experts are noticing too. Jim Bowden from the athletic named Valenzuela, the Jays stand out in camp.

1:01Still, he'll likely open the year in AAA as the number 25 prospect. Kirk should start, backed by Tyler Heineman, who hit 289 and 61 games last year with strong defense. An injury or trade could speed Valenzuela's path to the majors this season. A message from our sponsor supports today's story. A pillow that plays your podcasts, music, or white noise privately. No earbuds required. S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com. Made in AI.