Kevin Kiermaier clears waivers, will remain with the Blue Jays for now

Unfortunately for the Blue Jays, no one bit on picking up his contract, as he’s owed about $4.5 million of his $10.5 million deal. It’s worth noting that he wasn’t designated for assignment, so he can remain with the Jays unless they try to outright him to Buffalo, which Kiermaier would definitely decline and the Jays would be on the hook for the remainder of his salary. So for now, he stays.

This doesn’t mean that Kiermaier’s tenure as a Blue Jay isn’t winding down though. The trade deadline is in a couple of weeks, and despite his flaws with his bat (which we’ll get too), he’s a terrific defender in centre field. If the Blue Jays ate some of his contract, they could get a solid return as playoff teams would love his speed and defence.

The Blue Jays originally signed the long-time Tampa Bay Ray before the start of the 2023 season. That was a great season for the centre fielder, as he slashed .265/.322/.419 with eight homers in 408 plate appearances for a 104 wRC+ and a 2.8 fWAR. Kiermaier also had 18 Defensive Runs Saved and 13 Outs Above Average in 981.1 innings at centre.

It was quite a shock when the Blue Jays re-signed him for the 2024 season, as he had limited offers according to Kiermaier himself. Although he had a good 2023 season, Kiermaier didn’t warrant a raise to $10.5 million, and it bit the Jays in the butt this season.

Kiermaier has been a black hole with the bat this season, slashing .191/.238/.295 with three homers in 189 plate appearances for a career-worst 51 wRC+ and a 0 fWAR. He’s only saved by his plus defence, with 7 DRS and 7 OAA in 479.2 innings at centre field.

Whatever happens with Kiermaier in the future, he was a solid piece for the 2023 Blue Jays which made the playoffs. While it sucks he’s had a rough season, it’s hard to complain about the person. Hopefully, he can play his a-- off before the trade deadline.