A bat too hot to ignore

Jansen might be an injury risk, but he’s also the Jays’ most reliable hitter

- GREGOR CHISHOLM

While runs have been hard to come by for the Blue Jays this season, Danny Jansen has exceeded expecations when healthy.

There might not be a hitter in the Blue Jays clubhouse who understands his strengths and weaknesses better than Danny Jansen.

Toronto’s primary catcher knows what he excels at, and leans into those skills instead of trying to become someone he’s not. That has been key to his breakout season at the plate.

In a lineup littered with underperforming players, the 29-year-old Jansen has emerged as one of the top bats. He has been one of the few Jays to exceed expectations, and his recent success finally forced the Jays to move him up to the second spot in the order.

“He’s comfortable with who he is and what he does well,” manager John Schneider said prior to the Jays’ 5-0 loss to the White Sox at the Rogers Centre on Tuesday night. “I told him where he was hitting and he kind of smirked and knew it was a good thing. He’s at the point of his career where he’s going to have his at-bats no matter what.”

Jansen’s biggest strength is pulling the ball for power. Instead of chasing hits by trying to hit to all parts of the field, the seven-year veteran is constantly looking to drive the ball with authority. The goal is to do as much damage as possible, even if it means hitting for a lower average.