10 Blue Jays Players Unlikely to Make the Opening Day Roster

As the 2025 MLB season approaches, the Toronto Blue Jays have nearly set their roster, leaving some promising players just shy of making the Opening Day cut. These players showed potential in spring training, yet find themselves on the cusp of starting in the minors. Let’s look at who might be out and why.

Meet the Almosts: Blue Jays’ Near-Misses

Leo Jiménez

Blue Jays Players — *Photo via herdchronicles*

Infielder on the Edge Leo Jiménez, a middle infielder known for his smooth glove and growing bat, finds himself in a tough spot. With Bo Bichette firmly entrenched at shortstop and a crowded competition at second base, Jiménez’s path to the Opening Day roster is blocked, despite his potential to impact the game both defensively and at the plate.

Christian Bethancourt

The Catcher Conundrum Bethancourt’s battle for the backup catcher position behind Alejandro Kirk is an uphill one. Tyler Heineman’s edge in this race, highlighted by his strong spring performance, likely relegates Bethancourt to start the year at Triple-A, unless last-minute roster shifts swing in his favor.

Josh Palacios

Joshua Palacios has a positive outlook with Pirates after injuries — *Photo via mlb*

Outfield Overstock Josh Palacios, with his mix of speed and fielding ability, faces stiff competition from more established outfielders. Despite a solid showing in spring training, the depth of talent in the Blue Jays’ outfield could see him refining his skills in Buffalo a bit longer.

Samad Taylor

Utility Man Without a Spot Taylor’s versatility is undeniable, playing across the infield and showing flashes in the outfield. However, the current roster configuration and the need for more consistent offensive production might keep him from breaking into the big league just yet.

Orelvis Martinez

Power Potential Paused Despite his impressive power and potential, Orelvis Martinez is squeezed out by more experienced players at third base. His spring training showed promise, but he might need more seasoning in the minors to polish other aspects of his game.

Addison Barger

Third Base Battle Barger has been competing fiercely for the third base spot, but faces stiff competition from other prospects and may not secure an Opening Day spot. His performance at the plate this spring has been promising, yet the Blue Jays might opt for more seasoned players initially.

Nathan Lukes

The Outfield Dilemma Despite a strong spring showing, Nathan Lukes finds himself in a tough position due to the existing depth in the outfield. He’s shown he can hit at the Triple-A level, but breaking into the Blue Jays’ crowded outfield roster right from Opening Day might be a stretch.

Vinny Capra

Infield Outsider Capra, known for his hustle and versatility, might find it hard to carve out a spot due to the depth and talent ahead of him. His ability to handle multiple infield positions is a plus, but the current roster may not have room at the start of the season.

Zach Britton

The First Base Logjam While Britton has shown potential with his bat, the presence of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and others capable of playing first base or DH could limit his opportunities for an Opening Day debut.

Forrest Wall

Speed to Spare, Space to Gain Wall’s impressive speed and defensive skills make him a valuable asset in any outfield. However, with a crowded field ahead of him, he may need to wait for an opportunity to showcase his talents in the majors.

What’s Holding Them Back?

These players, while talented, face common challenges such as positional depth and the need for further development. The Blue Jays’ roster is stacked in certain areas, making it tough for even the most promising prospects to find their spot without an extraordinary spring performance or a shift in team needs due to injuries or trades.

Looking Ahead

Missing the Opening Day cut is just another chapter in the careers of these athletes. The MLB season is long and unpredictable, so it’s likely these players will get their chance to shine. Keep an eye on them, as they continue to hone their skills and wait for the call to the majors. To keep up to date with everything in Toronto visit Over Here Toronto.

Sources:

10 Blue Jays Players Unlikely to Make the 2025 Opening Day Roster