Blue Jays could get pivotal Josh Smith boost soon

It’s a testament to the Toronto Blue Jays’ resiliency that despite being a bit of a selling ballclub at the trade deadline, they remain in the periphery of the AL Wild Card race. Even after suffering a 13-2 beatdown against the Kansas City Royals on Thursday, they stand just 3.5 games back of the third and final Wild Card spot with three teams ahead of them at the moment.

Suffice to say, the Blue Jays need all the help they can get as they try to mount a push for the postseason, as unlikely as that may be. One position player who could be back for Toronto soon is infielder Josh Smith, who was recently put on the 10-day injured list due to a hamstring injury.

Smith began a rehab assignment in Triple-A on Thursday. He played nine innings of the Buffalo Bisons’ 7-6 loss to the Rochester Red Wings, going 0-4 from the plate. He did contribute two runs batted in by drawing a walk and by grounding out, both with the bases loaded.

The Blue Jays infielder is also scheduled to play for Buffalo on Friday, and the latest update on MLB.com noted that he could be back on the big-league roster after that.

Toronto acquired Smith at the trade deadline in a deal with the Texas Rangers, sending lefty relief pitcher Adam Macko to the Lone Star State in return. There was no longer any space for Smith in the Rangers’ infield, and Toronto brought him in for cheap.

Smith has some pop for a second baseman, and his defensive versatility is a helpful tool as well. This season alone, he’s already suited up in four different positions (2B, 3B, LF, 1B).

This year hasn’t been the easiest for Smith, however. He currently has an OPS of .608 this year, which is his worst tally since his rookie campaign.

Smith last played on the 19th of August, going 1-3 from the plate in a 7-6 loss for the Blue Jays against the Tampa Bay Rays.