TORONTO -- The Blue Jays added some depth and versatility on Monday, claiming utility man Jimmy Paredes off waivers from the Orioles.
The five-year MLB veteran had been on the disabled list with a left wrist injury that he suffered during Spring Training, and just recently completed a rehab assignment in the Orioles' Minor League system, in which he hit .309 with two home runs and nine RBIs.
The 27-year-old got into a career-high 104 games with the Orioles last season, hitting .275 with a .726 OPS and 10 home runs. The switch-hitting Paredes is an intriguing potential option off the bench for Toronto, and he has seen time at second and third base, as well as both corner outfield spots.
While no decision has been made on where Paredes will slot in with regards to the Blue Jays current roster, manager John Gibbons likes what he's seen from the utility man in the past and is especially fond of his offensive potential.
"Supposedly, he can really hit," Gibbons said. "You can bounce him around different spots, and he can give you some time in the infield, some time in the outfield, but he swings the bat."