Extending Danny Jansen Should Be the Blue Jays’ Top Priority

Blue Jays Should Consider Long-Term Extension for Danny Jansen

Given that the Jays have only signed Jose Berrios to a long-term extension, and with Guerrero and Bichette likely to dominate contract discussions, Danny Jansen is another key player to consider for a future deal.

Jansen will be one of the top catchers on the free-agent market this season. If he maintains his current performance and stays healthy, he is poised for a significant raise from his current $5.2 million arbitration salary. With his experience and power, he could command a $10-15 million AAV. If the Jays don't extend one of their longest-tenured players, Jansen is likely to be the top catcher available this winter. The Jays and Jansen discussed an extension this past winter but chose to let the season unfold.

Looking ahead, extending Jansen would be a smart move for a Jays organization that has recently prioritized defense while seeking power in a struggling lineup. As a homegrown talent, he fits well with the team's needs behind the plate. With limited depth at the catcher position in the higher levels, letting Jansen walk this winter seems risky unless the Jays trade him at the deadline, which could indicate a full rebuild.

This post by Tyson Shushkewich appeared first on Just Baseball.

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Danny Jansen Joins Blue Jays' Winter Free Agency Group

Joining that group this winter is catcher Danny Jansen, a fan favorite since becoming a regular on the roster after his 2018 debut. The bespectacled Illinois native was one of the first prospects to reach the big leagues before Guerrero Jr. and Bichette wore a Toronto jersey. Drafted in the 16th round in 2013, Jansen made it to the majors due to his excellent defense behind the plate, game-calling skills, and occasional extra-base power.

Danny Jansen Overcomes Injuries, Ranks Among Top Catchers

Over the years, Jansen has struggled with various injuries, missing time due to issues with his oblique, hamstring, groin, and hands, often from being hit by inside pitches. Sharing catching duties with Alejandro Kirk, the 29-year-old has played in 439 games over seven years, achieving a .229/.313/.442 slash line and a .755 OPS. He boasts a 106 OPS+ with 70 home runs and 209 RBI, contributing to a 9.5 bWAR in his career. Defensively, Jansen has a +8 DRS, a .992 fielding percentage, and has thrown out 22% of base stealers.

Since 2018, Jansen ranks tenth among catchers in fWAR with a 7.9 mark, despite having fewer plate appearances due to injuries. His 120 wRC+ ranks fifth, and his .475 SLG is third, behind only Salvador Perez and Will Smith.

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Danny Jansen Shines in Contract Year, Leading Blue Jays Offense

This season, in his contract walk year, Jansen is showcasing his hitting prowess. The West High School alum boasts a .287/.371/.535 slash line through 101 at-bats and has been one of the Blue Jays' most productive hitters, posting a .905 OPS with five home runs after returning from the injured list (a broken wrist from a spring training pitch). Manager John Schneider frequently relies on him behind the plate, and his right-handed bat has earned him a higher spot in the lineup due to his ability to drive the ball and get on base, tallying 14 walks to 18 strikeouts so far. Defensively, Jansen ranks in the 98th percentile in blocks above average, providing pitchers with confidence that he will prevent wild pitches.

Blue Jays Should Consider Long-Term Extension for Danny Jansen

Given that the Jays have only signed Jose Berrios to a long-term extension, and with Guerrero and Bichette likely to dominate contract discussions, Danny Jansen is another key player to consider for a future deal.

Jansen will be one of the top catchers on the free-agent market this season. If he maintains his current performance and stays healthy, he is poised for a significant raise from his current $5.2 million arbitration salary. With his experience and power, he could command a $10-15 million AAV. If the Jays don't extend one of their longest-tenured players, Jansen is likely to be the top catcher available this winter. The Jays and Jansen discussed an extension this past winter but chose to let the season unfold.

Looking ahead, extending Jansen would be a smart move for a Jays organization that has recently prioritized defense while seeking power in a struggling lineup. As a homegrown talent, he fits well with the team's needs behind the plate. With limited depth at the catcher position in the higher levels, letting Jansen walk this winter seems risky unless the Jays trade him at the deadline, which could indicate a full rebuild.

This post by Tyson Shushkewich appeared first on Just Baseball.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.