In split-squad action on Sunday, the Toronto Blue Jays will probably see two new players take the field: half of the team will go to Clearwater, Florida, to play the Philadelphia Phillies, and the other half will remain in Dunedin to play the Minnesota Twins.
Joey Votto, a Canadian, might participate in one of those games. He has a minor-league game on Wednesday and another one on the following day. The Etobicoke, Ontario native should be able to play in his first Grapefruit League game this weekend if all goes according to plan.
After spending the first half of spring training unsigned and in camp on a non-roster deal, Votto has spent the last few days getting himself in game shape. Votto spent 17 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds before the team declined his $20-million option for 2024, making him a free agent by choosing to pay $7 million to buy out his contract. Last season, after returning from shoulder surgery, Votto played in 65 games, hitting 14 home runs with 38 RBIs and slashing.202/.314/.433.
The 40-year-old first baseman participated in batting practice Tuesday morning, during which he faced Cuban right-hander Yariel Rodriguez, who’s also nearing his Blue Jays spring debut.
The 27-year-old righty was set to throw two innings of live batting practice on Tuesday, hoping to toss approximately 40 pitches. Toronto hopes to continue stretching him out as a starter this spring, trying to build him up to five innings by the end of spring.
The 27-year-old righty was set to throw two innings of live batting practice on Tuesday, hoping to toss approximately 40 pitches. Toronto hopes to continue stretching him out as a starter this spring, trying to build him up to five innings by the end of spring.
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