Two months ago I looked at the Jays and thought, not unlike many people, that the Jays had a solid starting 8 in the lineup. But, I was worried about the lack of depth the Jays actually had, in the event that a player went down with an injury, as is typically inevitable over the course of 162 games. I'm not anymore.
If spring training has shown us anything, it's that the Jays have a plethora of talent capable of stepping into the lineup. Over a full 162-game schedule, we don't know. But to come in for a few weeks, absolutely.
Starting with the outfield, there's the likely starting lineup of Snider, Rasmus and Bautista. Now granted, you can't replace Bautista's bat, but waiting to fill in here we have Thames, Davis, Francisco, and from the looks of it, Encarnacion, should we be required. Even Gose is a possibility. This is a very nice group of solid, veteran outfielders (and Gose). Granted, none are superstars, but all are very capable.
The infield has a completely different kind of depth. D'Arnaud and Hech have been outstanding in spring training. Seeing them up in the majors this season is quite likely. The possibility of Arencibia perhaps spelling Lind at 1st to get D'Arnaud some starts is an interesting prospect. At third, the natural replacement for Lawrie will be Encarnacion. However, if long term, I'd be more inclined to move Bautista to third and have one of our other outfielders move into RF.
We all hope none of this is required. Everyone staying healthy would be fantastic, but it won't happen. But spring training has shown how far many of our prospects have come and if forced into the majors at an early date, many have shown they're capable.
Looking forward to an exciting, healthy season!
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