Blue Jays' Brandon Valenzuela making the most of increased playing time

Toronto Blue Jays catcher Brandon Valenzuela (59) hits a three-run home run in the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Rogers Centre. Gerry Angus-Imagn Images

Blue Jays' Brandon Valenzuela making the most of increased playing time

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated May 9, 2026 8:40 PM ET

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Upon the return of All-Star catcher Alejandro Kirk, rookie Toronto Blue Jays catcher Brandon Valenzuela deserves to be the backup.

The rookie catcher has impressed with his solid defense, but has been a pleasant surprise offensively. In his most recent performance on Saturday, he went 4-for-5 with a home run and four RBI against the Los Angeles Angels.

It marked the first four-hit game of his career. As well, the three-run home run he hit reached an exit velocity of 111.4 mph, demonstrating his power potential.

The 25-year-old has hit three home runs and six RBIs and has given manager John Schneider many reasons to keep him on the roster.

Home run, Brandon Valenzuela, and the #BlueJays have put up seven runs in the fifth.

Valenzuela just keeps earning more playing time until Kirk is back. Probably beyond that, too. pic.twitter.com/Wef37TWxYh
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) May 9, 2026

Brandon Valenzuela is proving his worth

Valenzuela's strong defensive skills have been seen through his arm strength and ability to throw out base runners. Followed by solid framing and a pop time (84th percentile) of 1.90 seconds.

He's proven to be a better defensive option over veteran Tyler Heineman. Valenzuela's 45.5% (5 for 11) caught-stealing rate compared to Heineman's 20% (3 for 15) highlights the rookie's defensive upside.

Essentially, the success Heineman brought to the Blue Jays in 2025 hasn't been replicated this season. His .170 batting average and two RBIs showcase his struggles in 2026 action.

Valenzuela has just continued to gain the spotlight and has made solid defensive plays. With the help of Addison Barger, whose cannon of an arm threw the ball at a speed of 101.2 mph from right field, Valenzuela threw out Jorge Soler to save a run for the Blue Jays on Saturday afternoon.

When it comes down to it, Valenzuela has been the whole package. He has provided more consistent offensive production. He's also recorded a 0.7 fWAR across 22 games, which ranks higher than veteran catchers. Making him a formidable option and better fit long-term on the roster.

Brandon Valenzuela has now produced 0.7 fWAR in only 22 GP.

Here is a list of catchers he's currently above in fWAR:

• Cal Raleigh
• Will Smith
• Samuel Basallo
• Austin Wells
• Francisco Álvarez
• Carson Kelly
• Carter Jensen
• Carlos Narvaez
• JT Realmuto
— Damon (@Damon98_) May 9, 2026

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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