Get ready for a thrilling baseball story that will have you on the edge of your seat! The Blue Jays have made a move that's sure to spark some debate among fans.
The team has signed left-handed pitcher Josh Fleming to a minor league contract, as reported by Alden González of ESPN. Fleming, a client of Republik Sports, has received an invite to Spring Training, but here's where it gets interesting...
Fleming, a 29-year-old southpaw, had a challenging season last year in Triple-A with the Mariners. His ERA of 4.91 across 84 innings might not jump off the page, but his ability to induce ground balls at a high rate (57.8%) is an intriguing skill. However, his strikeout rate of 11.5% is a concern, especially when compared to his peers in Triple-A. Fleming's arsenal includes a sinker that barely touches 90 MPH, along with a cutter, changeup, and curveball.
But here's the twist: Fleming is no stranger to the AL East, having spent most of his career in this division. He pitched for the Rays from 2020 to 2023 and even had a stint with the Pirates in 2024. His overall major league ERA of 4.77 across 254 innings suggests he's been effective at getting outs, but his lack of strikeouts could be a cause for concern.
And this is the part most people miss: Fleming's ability to induce ground balls could be a valuable asset for the Blue Jays, especially if he can improve his strikeout rate. He's likely to start the season in Triple-A Buffalo, providing depth as a long reliever.
So, what do you think? Is Fleming a hidden gem, or is his lack of strikeouts a red flag? Let's discuss in the comments! The baseball community is always ready for a good debate, and this move by the Blue Jays is sure to spark some interesting conversations.
