Get ready for a thrilling baseball story! The Blue Jays have made a move that's sure to spark debate among fans and experts alike.
The team has re-signed left-handed reliever Joe Mantiply to a minor league contract, inviting him to their MLB camp. This decision is an intriguing one, especially considering Mantiply's recent performance.
Last season, Mantiply wrapped up his time with the Toronto organization. After being released by the Diamondbacks in June, he quickly signed a minor league deal with the Jays. He spent some time honing his skills in Florida before joining Triple-A Buffalo. Despite a solid strikeout-to-walk ratio of 19:0 against 64 Triple-A opponents, his run prevention wasn't exceptional, and he didn't get the call-up to the big leagues.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Jays, impressed by Mantiply's command and ground-ball abilities, despite his below-average velocity, have brought him back. Mantiply, now 35, was an All-Star surprise in 2022, showcasing a 2.85 ERA across 60 innings. He's known for his good movement on his sinker and changeup, which made him a reliable middle reliever as recently as 2024.
And this is the part most people miss... The Jays have a strong MLB roster but are lacking in established left-handed relief. Eric Lauer is set for a multi-inning role, while Mason Fluharty and Brendon Little, although possessing impressive raw stuff, struggle with consistency around the strike zone. Ricky Tiedemann, a former top prospect, is once again dealing with elbow discomfort, which could impact his role as a rookie.
So, why bring Mantiply back? Is it a strategic move to bolster their left-handed relief options, or is it a sign of desperation? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this intriguing decision by the Blue Jays!
