3 Young Blue Jays Poised for Impact in 2024 – As the Blue Jays assemble in Dunedin for another Spring Training, there is no shortage of talent on the roster. With superstars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Alek Manoah leading the charge, Toronto has their sights set on finally getting over the hump and making a deep October run. Canadian top betting sites have taken notice, with the Blue Jays entering the season as one of the World Series favorites.
However, the Blue Jays are still on the hunt for breakout contributors that could raise the team’s ceiling even higher. While some of these pleasant surprises may come externally through free agent signings or trades, Toronto will also look to its farm system for a boost.
Here are three young Blue Jays who appear primed to make an impact at the major league level in 2024:
The Breakout Starter: RHP Bowden Francis
Bowden Francis remained relatively inconspicuous within the ranks of the Blue Jays’ pitching prospects as they entered the year 2023. Nevertheless, the 27-year-old right-handed pitcher swiftly garnered recognition for his exceptional performance. Primarily utilized in a relief capacity, Francis displayed remarkable prowess, boasting an impressive 1.73 ERA over 36 1/3 innings, coupled with 35 strikeouts.
Notable for Francis is his curveball, which was an invaluable weapon in his pitching arsenal. It gained the trust of both coaching staff and opposing batters by consistently challenging hitters with precision throws to prevent runs being scored; therefore it is likely he will receive a starting role during 2024 season.
Francis will compete for the fifth starter position during Spring Training. Even if he begins with Triple-A Buffalo instead, Francis has all of the characteristics necessary to fill any vacancies that arise in his rotation when they arise. With an aggressive yet thoughtful demeanor on the mound and an engaging personality, Francis possesses all of the elements required for professional growth and advancement.
The Left-Handed Masher: 3B Damiano Palmegiani
While the Toronto Blue Jays currently possess a notable depth in their infield positions, Damiano Palmegiani brings forth a particular offensive skillset that may soon be in high demand. This corner infielder exhibits a burgeoning display of raw power from the right side of the batting plate, substantiated by his impressive record of 23 home runs during the previous season across Double-A and Triple-A leagues.
Of even greater intrigue is Palmegiani’s remarkable prowess when facing left-handed pitchers. In the year 2023, he achieved an impressive .842 OPS against southpaws, rendering him an optimal choice for a platoon role at either of the corner infield positions. Despite his ongoing development defensively at third base, it is worth noting that Palmegiani made significant progress in this regard during the past year and also offers added versatility as a first baseman.
Palmegiani will need to continue his impressive offensive performance to secure a place in Toronto’s future plans. However, having reached the Triple-A level last season, the 24-year-old appears poised to capitalize on any opportunities that may arise. His offensive profile aligns precisely with the requirements of the Blue Jays’ lineup.
The On-Base Machine: 1B Spencer Horwitz
While scouts rave about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s elite bat-to-ball skills, Spencer Horwitz possesses his own rare approach that could soon impact Toronto’s offense. Horwitz may lack typical first base power, but his exceptional plate discipline led to a .450 OBP across three minor league levels in 2023.
Additionally, the 23-year-old displayed more over-the-fence pop against right-handed pitchers. This notable split combined with his on-base acumen make Horwitz an intriguing left-handed platoon candidate at first base or designated hitter.
Horwitz will aim to carry over his success to Spring Training to contend for big league at-bats. The Blue Jays value his brand of offense in their high-powered lineup, especially if he taps into more power. How Toronto constructs the DH spot will directly impact Horwitz’s outlook, but he remains firmly on the radar.
3 Young Blue Jays Poised for Impact in 2024 – The Road Ahead
The Blue Jays enter 2024 with sky-high expectations, an impressive core, and few clear openings. As fans make their sports betting predictions for the season, the continued emergence of players like Bowden Francis, Damiano Palmegiani, and Spencer Horwitz could raise the club’s ceiling to World Series contender status. Toronto will closely evaluate this young trio in Spring Training as vital depth pieces — or perhaps something even more.
