Ahead of the third game against the Texas Rangers on Saturday afternoon, the Blue Jays made a roster move. Keys was selected to the team’s 40-man and 26-man rosters and is set to bat sixth. Additionally, Yohendrick Piñango was called up, while Jesús Sánchez was placed and the 10-day injured list and Davis Schneider was optioned. Keys forced the Blue Jays’ hands this season. After hitting an organization-leading 19 home runs with the Vancouver Canadians in 529 plate appearances last season, the corner infielder has already hit 21 home runs in just 286 plate appearances this season, splitting his time between Double-A and Triple-A. Selected in the fourth round of the 2024 draft, Keys slashed .285/.411/.581 with 14 home runs in 209 plate appearances with the Double-A New Hampshire Fisher Cats. A promotion to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons didn’t slow him down, in fact, he performed better. Over 18 games, Keys slashed .281/.403/.719 with seven home runs in 77 plate appearances, a rate of one home run every 11 plate appearances.
Keys’ fit on the Blue Jays roster is a little difficult considering he’s a left-handed hitter and plays only third and first base. That said, his power is real, and it’s something that the Blue Jays desperately need more of this season. As for Piñango, this is his third stint with the Blue Jays. Over 136 plate appearances with the team, the left-handed batting outfielder is slashing .283/.331/.433 with four home runs for a 113 wRC+. He’s been a breath of fresh air, giving 2025 Blue Jays-esque plate appearances.
He’ll replace Sánchez, who departed Friday evening’s game in the seventh inning after crashing into the wall. He was diagnosed with a sprained ankle and won’t be back on the roster until at least July 7th. As for the Schneider move, it allows Keys to join the roster. Somehow, some way, Keys will be a fit for the Jays despite replacing Schneider who is a second baseman/left fielder. There’s a strong possibility Keys will get looks as a designated hitter, with George Springer playing some games in the outfield.
