It’s hard to be anything but pleased with the run of games Alejandro Kirk has put together this season.
And earlier today against the Boston Red Sox, he just kept rolling not only catching for The Big Man, Alek Manoah, but by putting together some formidable at-bats.
He went 2 for 4 in the matinee — one of which being an RBI single in the 3rd giving the Jays their lone score of the day. On top of it all, he extended his at-bats without a strike streak to 41 at-bats, the longest active in the MLB. On the season, he’s been struck out just four times all of which coming over the first five games of the season.
According to baseball savant, his K% and Whiff% are in the 99th percentile, while his B% sits in the 87th. That B%, however, sits at 12.06 percent — a 1.98 percent increase over last year. His K%, meanwhile, rests at 6.9%.
On the season, he’s slashing .265/.362/.265 recording 13 hits, two RBI’s and a spicy eight walks — a number second to that of Vladimir Guererro Jr. His slugging percentage is down .192 from his last year and that should improve, while his on-base percentage is a sliver higher than last year.
His versatility has played a part, too. He’s designated hit twice, while also pinch-hitting on three occasions. In 10 at-bats, he’s had one hit, a sac fly RBI and one walk.
Nonetheless, Kirk’s ability to get on base and most importantly, not get struck out, has been tremendous for the club in a time where they’re battling some bumps and bruises. Can you ask for much more from him at this point?
It goes without saying that it’s a long season, and a guy like Kirk is making a good case to stick around and see regular at-bats. Along with Zack Collins, and Danny Jansen, it gives the Jays lots of options behind the plate too.
As I mentioned above, Kirk’s seen some DH and PH action and so has Collins, who has played six games as a designated hitter. Also worth noting that Collins is getting some practice work in at 1B, too, as he was seen this week getting some lessons from Vladdy Jr.
Versatility is important, and that’s exactly what Kirk has been this year.
Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at [email protected]
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