The Toronto Blue Jays have made the signing of veteran outfielder Kevin Kiermaier official.
Kiermaier had been non-tendered by the Tampa Bay Rays, which made him a free agent for the first time in his career.
The 32-year-old hit just .228 during the regular season with seven home runs and 22 RBI during the regular season, but is best known for his defense.
The Blue Jays made an official announcement of the signing on Twitter.
Kiermaier responded with a nice greeting, expressing his excitement for joining the Blue Jays and his desire to help the team win in 2023.
HELLO TORONTO! HELLO @BlueJays fans! I’m glad I don’t have to contain my excitement anymore! I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this organization! I promise you I will care as much as anyone out on that field day in and day out! Cannot wait to get this going!!! Im here to WIN! https://t.co/MMFKMJCSpv
— Kevin Kiermaier (@KKiermaier39) December 15, 2022
Jays Add “The Outlaw”
As previously mentioned, Kiermaier is best known for his defense out in center field.
Affectionately known as “The Outlaw,” Kiermaier has won three Gold Gloves, a Platinum Glove, and a Defensive Player of the Year Award.
The veteran made his debut with the Rays in 2013.
His best season came in 2017, when he hit .276 with 15 home runs and 39 RBI during the regular season.
The Blue Jays had been looking for an outfielder after the trading of Teoscar Hernandez.
The team has added a plus defender in Kiermaier.
The 32-year-old certainly seems excited to join his new team.
Toronto won 92 games during the regular season and captured the top American League Wild Card spot, but were eliminated by the upstart Seattle Mariners in the first round.
The veteran has been a part of several great teams in Tampa Bay and also brings some winning experience with him to Toronto.
