"Valenzuela, a switch-hitter, is their backup catcher of the future. Acquired in the Will Wagner deal ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, Valenzuela slashed .304/.370/.478 with one home run in 27 plate appearances this Spring Training. While there's some pop in his bat, Valenzuela's best attribute is his defence behind home plate."
"Tirotta had a strong showing in his 20 Spring Training games, slashing .226/.351/.452 with two home runs and four doubles in 37 plate appearances. The 27-year-old is capable of playing numerous positions, spending time at first base, third base, and right field in 2025. There's some whiff in his game, but the versatility and pop could eventually turn into a callup."
"Lantigua's best season was in 2023, when he slashed .305/.425/.469 with 12 home runs in 578 plate appearances with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons. Much like Tirotta, Lantigua can play all over the field and had a successful Spring Training, slashing .367/.457/.400 with a double in 35 plate appearances."
The Blue Jays made roster cuts on Wednesday evening, optioning catcher Brandon Valenzuela to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons and assigning Carlos Mendoza, Rafael Lantigua, Josh Rivera, Robert Brooks, and Riley Tirotta to the Minor League camp. Valenzuela, acquired in the Will Wagner trade, demonstrated strong offensive performance in spring training with a .304 average and defensive prowess behind the plate. Brooks, signed from independent leagues, struggled offensively in limited opportunities. Tirotta showed versatility across multiple positions with power potential despite strikeout concerns. Lantigua, a utility player with a successful 2023 season, performed well in spring training. Mendoza, signed to a minor league deal, previously broke out in the Detroit Tigers system.
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