Blue Jays sign Belt

January 10th, 2023

The Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to terms with INF Brandon Belt on a one-year contract (US $9,300,000).

Belt, 34, was limited to 78 games with the San Francisco Giants in 2022 due to a right knee injury, batting .213 with 18 extra-base hits and 23 RBI. Over the two previous seasons, the native of Nacogdoches, TX, combined to hit 38 homers and 89 RBI in 148 games for a .988 OPS. The 6-3, 231 lb. left-handed hitter was drafted by the Giants in 2009 and made his debut with the club in 2011. After spending the entirety of his 12-year MLB career with San Francisco, the 2016 NL All-Star has batted .261 with 267 doubles, 36 triples, 175 home runs, and 584 RBI while winning a pair of World Series rings in 2012 and 2014.

“As we continue to improve upon a strong Blue Jays roster, the elite offensive skills and veteran presence of Brandon is an addition that will greatly complement this team,” said Ross Atkins, EVP of Baseball Operations & General Manager. “His consistency and experience on the game’s biggest stages make him a great addition culturally and within our clubhouse”

To make room on the 40-man roster, RHP Julian Merryweather has been designated for assignment.