The Toronto Blue Jays needed someone to step up in their lineup. No one could have expected it would be unheralded minor leaguer Davis Schneider.
Schneider has made his mark on both the Blue Jays and the majors in just three games. He is just the second player since 1901 to collect nine hits in his first three games, joining Coaker Triplett in 1938. Those nine hits were also the only hits he had in his 12 games that year. Schneider has gone a step beyond Triplett however as two of those hits were homers.
Toronto Blue Jays will find ways to get Davis Schneider into lineup
Schneider has been a utility option in the minors, primarily spending time at second, third, and left. Thus far, he has only appeared at second, with Cavan Biggio and Santiago Espinal moving to the bench. Whit Merrifield has also shifted to the outfield with Daulton Varsho heading to center. It would not be a surprise to see his defensive versatility come into play soon as well, allowing other players to return to the lineup.
He is also a great story. Schneider was a 28th round selection in the 2017 MLB Draft and did not even get to full season ball until 2019. He scrapped and clawed for every bit of playing time, working to get better. He learned different positions to get onto the diamond, carving out a niche as a utility option. The bat continued to improve as he progressed, forcing the organization to give him more playing time. With his decent power and speed, commitment, continued hard work, and ability to play multiple positions, Schneider has the potential to put together a long career.
But that cannot be determined by just three games. The league will adjust as their scouting reports improve and Schneider will need to adjust back. His incredible start will not continue – no one is going to post a 1.887 OPS over the rest of the season. However, he should get every opportunity to prove that he can be a part of the Blue Jays’ future.
Davis Schneider has had a historic start to his major league career. The Toronto Blue Jays may have an unexpected piece for the future.
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