With spring training officially in the books, the Toronto Blue Jays now turn their attention to Opening Day — and a season that carries real expectations.
Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Andres Gimenez is congratulated by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
Toronto opens at home on March 27 against the Oakland A’s, bringing with them a roster built on depth, pitching strength, and an offense capable of producing. But as camp wrapped up, a few players stood out more than the rest.
Some solidified their roles. Others forced their way into the conversation.
And a few may have quietly reshaped how this team looks moving forward.
Josh Kasevich is getting closer than expected
Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Josh Kasevich singles. | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
For fans not yet familiar with Josh Kasevich, that may change soon.
The young shortstop made a strong impression throughout camp, earning consistent praise from the coaching staff for both his performance and approach. His reputation as a dependable defender continues to grow, with evaluators highlighting his consistency and instincts in the field.
At the plate, he backed it up.
Kasevich hit .306 with a .375 on-base percentage and .500 slugging, collecting 11 hits, a home run, and five RBIs during spring action. It wasn’t just production — it was the way he carried himself, showing maturity beyond his experience.
He won’t break camp with the big club, largely due to a crowded infield. But if injuries arise or the Blue Jays need a steady glove, Kasevich has made a compelling case to be among the first names called.
Max Scherzer may have more left than expected
Toronto Blue Jays staring pitcher Max Scherzer throws a pitch. | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
When Toronto added Max Scherzer, it looked like a depth move for an already strong rotation.
Now, it may be much more than that.
Injuries have created early openings, and Scherzer has taken full advantage. The veteran right-hander delivered a sharp spring, making three starts and allowing no runs while giving up just four hits. He also struck out nine batters and worked deep enough into outings to show durability.
At this stage of his career, questions always follow Scherzer — particularly about how much he has left.
But based on what he showed this spring, the answer might be: enough to matter.
Whether it’s a short-term role or something more, Scherzer has positioned himself as a legitimate option to stabilize the rotation early in the season.
Daulton Varsho looks ready to take a leap
Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Daulton Varsho runs the bases. | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Daulton Varsho didn’t need to earn a roster spot this spring — but he may have raised expectations anyway.
No Blue Jays hitter was more productive in camp.
Varsho led the team in multiple offensive categories, including batting average (.380), home runs (5), hits (19), and RBIs (14). It was a dominant stretch that hinted at a more complete offensive version of a player already known for his defensive value.
Timing matters here.
Varsho is entering a contract year, and a breakout offensive season could significantly impact his future. For Toronto, that potential surge couldn’t come at a better time.
If his spring performance carries into the regular season, Varsho won’t just be a contributor — he could become a centerpiece.
A spring that may carry real weight
Spring training results don’t always translate. But sometimes, they reveal momentum.
For the Blue Jays, that momentum is building in different ways — a rising prospect pushing for his opportunity, a veteran proving he’s not done, and a key lineup piece showing signs of a breakout.
As the season begins, those developments won’t stay in the background for long.
They may end up defining how far this team can go.
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