Blue Jays Linked To Free Agent Speedster

The Toronto Blue Jays recently added Jackie Bradley Jr. off waivers, but to do so, they released the speedy Bradley Zimmer, who filled in as a pinch-runner on numerous occasions. Now, according to a report, the Jays are considering adding yet another speed merchant.

The Blue Jays have shown some interest in speedy OF Billy Hamilton, who recently elected free agency after being outrighted by Marlins. They lost Bradley Zimmer on waivers to Phillies yesterday and have been on the lookout for depth options (they recently added Yoshi Tsutsugo).

— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) August 19, 2022

10-year major league veteran Billy Hamilton was recently outrighted by the Miami Marlins, and has elected free agency. The Jays have shown interest. 

The ultra-fast Hamilton has made his career with his legs, as he's stolen 321 bases over his ten seasons. He averaged 57 SBs per season with the Cincinnati Reds from 2014-17. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to get on base enough in recent years to turn that into a full-time everyday job. 

The 31-year-old has a lifetime .293 on-base percentage (the average mark for a big leaguer is about .320). His career batting average is .239. 

This season, in 15 plate appearances for the Marlins, Hamilton picked up just one hit, but still stole 7 bases. Certainly, some contender will be looking to pick him up for pinch-running duties. Toronto could be a landing spot.

Photos: Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK, David Banks-USA TODAY Sports