George Springer and the Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to a six-year deal worth $150 million, per Jon Heyman. The deal is pending a physical. Springer was one of the most coveted free agents this offseason.
Springer and Jays agree at $150M for 6 years
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 20, 2021
Career of George Springer
The 31-year-old outfielder was originally drafted out of high school by the Minnesota Twins in the 48th round of the 2008 MLB Draft. After a few years at the University of Connecticut, the Houston Astros drafted Springer in the first round of the 2011 Draft. Springer spent his seven big league seasons in Houston.
Springer owns a .270/.361/.491 career slashline in 795 regular-season games. He earned three All-Star berths and two Silver Slugger awards. The former Astro has been one of the most dynamic leadoff batters in the league. Since entering the league, he has blasted 39 leadoff home runs, most among active players. What makes this stat even more impressive is that Springer wasn’t the team’s primary leadoff batter until 2016. The veteran kept his power numbers up while cutting down on strikeouts. When he came into the league in 2014, he struck out in about 33% of his plate appearances. In this shortened 2020 season, he struck out in half that — 17% of his plate appearances. Springer developed into a true leadoff hitter.
However, the postseason made Springer’s name. He worked his way to the World Series MVP in 2017, aiding the Astros win over the Los Angeles Dodgers. His 19 career postseason home runs tie him for fourth on the all-time list. In two World Series, he has a .339/.456/.839 slashline.
On to Toronto
George Springer will be joining a team with eyes on the postseason and beyond. He will be welcomed into this lineup and city with open arms. Springer will easily man center field and will improve the team offensively and defensively. With his regular season and postseason experience, Springer could help get the Blue Jays over the hump and into the promised land.
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