Blue Jays unexpectedly promote minor-league speedster Rudy Martin Jr.

A general view of the Toronto Blue Jays logo. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Blue Jays unexpectedly promote minor-league speedster Rudy Martin Jr.

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Sep 11, 2026 1:49 PM ET

After grinding out 12 years in minor league baseball, 30-year-old journeyman outfielder Rudy Martin Jr. is unexpectedly getting called up by the Toronto Blue Jays.

He was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2014 in the 25th round, which is a round that no longer exists. He spent nine seasons with them, and the Blue Jays claimed him off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles in July.

Since then, he's recorded a .253/.351/.379 slash line with three home runs and 11 RBI across 95 plate appearances. He also has 12 stolen bases in 27 games; he has notched 45 total on the season and 239 across his minor-league career. In 42 games in Triple-A this season, he has five home runs, 16 RBI, 15 stolen bases and 21 walks drawn.

He provides the Blue Jays, who will have an extra roster spot in September, with a sparkplug on the basepaths.

Outfielder Jesus Sanchez was designated for assignment to make space on the active roster (and 40-man roster) for Martin.

Toronto is calling up outfielder Rudy Martin Jr., who is expected to make his debut after 12 years in the minors, a source tells ESPN. Martin, 30, was taken in the 25th round of the draft -- which doesn't exist anymore -- in 2014. Played indy ball, Mexican League and, now, MLB.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) September 11, 2026

Rudy Martin Jr. gets his long-awaited debut amid Blue Jays postseason push

The minor-league veteran will finally get his chance to demonstrate his speed at the big-league level.

While he isn't expected to make a huge impact offensively, his 45 stolen bases prove he can be a weapon as a pinch-runner, as he can steal critical bases in tight games. Also, as a threat on the basepaths, he can be valuable off the bench in late-game rallies. He can also play all three outfield positions if a defensive replacement is needed.

The speedy outfielder also possesses solid plate discipline as he rarely chases at the plate. As well, his 103.2 90th EV is league average, showcasing upside.

He also played independent professional baseball and in the Mexican League and can now officially add MLB to his baseball resume. It's an intriguing move by the Blue Jays as they face a pivotal series against the Baltimore Orioles, who are also battling for a final AL wild-card spot.

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.

More must-reads: