Blue Jays’ Alejandro Kirk injury news isn’t good for Toronto catcher originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Toronto Blue Jays have one of the best catchers in baseball.
Advertisement
The short, stocky Alejandro Kirk has become a brilliant defensive player and remains a gifted batsman, as well. That’s what makes his injury on Friday so concerning.
Kirk left Toronto’s game at the Chicago White Sox in the 10th inning with a left thumb injury.
A foul tip from batter Austin Hays went into the area of Kirk’s glove where that thumb resides, and Kirk left the field with trainers.
Kirk underwent X-rays after the game, according to MLB.com.
Advertisement
“It’s more the thumb. It sucks. It hurts, especially on a cold day,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider, himself a former catcher. “We’re hoping that it’s nothing serious. He’s about as tough as they come, so for him to come out, you don’t love it. It was just all thumb, no wrist.”
MORE: Explaining the absurdity of 2 MLB players named Max Muncy
The Blue Jays awoke Saturday awaiting the results of the scans.
Kirk batted .282 last season and graded out as one of the best defensive catchers in the American League.
Advertisement
For Toronto to reach its best heights this season, Kirk needs to be behind the plate.
MORE: This Red Sox pitcher traveled an impossible path to the major leagues
Who is the Blue Jays’ backup catcher?
Tyler Heineman is Kirk’s backup, just like he was last season.
Heineman made a throwing error in extra innings Friday after entering for Kirk.
The Blue Jays have one other catcher on their 40-man roster: Brandon Valenzuela, who is currently at Triple-A Buffalo.
Advertisement
More MLB news: