NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — The Blue Jays haven’t wasted any time getting down to business at baseball’s winter meetings, reportedly coming to terms Monday with utility fielder Steve Pearce.
The 33-year-old, who has show comfort playing at first base and outfield, signed a two-year, US$12.5-million deal.
The signing, of course, could certainly further limit Toronto’s interest in free agent Edwin Encarnacion, given last month’s signing of Kendrys Morales.
The 33-year-old underwent arm surgery in September but is expected to be ready for spring training.
Pearce’s versatility gives general manager John Gibbons some defensive options, given that he can play multiple spots on the infield as well as the outfield.
At the plate, Pearce has shown versatility and has been solid against left-handed pitching, an area where the Jays were surprisingly weak in 2016.
The other buzz around the meetings at the Gaylord National Resort has the Jays showing interest in Texas Rangers free agent Mitch Moreland.