The Toronto Blue Jays have agreed to new contracts with infielder Darwin Barney and outfielder Ezequiel Carrera, avoiding arbitration with both players.
Since joining the Blue Jays in September of 2015, Barney has evolved into a valuable infield depth piece. The former gold glove award winner appeared in 104 games last season split primarily between second base, third base and shortstop, although he did play five games in left field and even pitched one inning.
The 31-year-old hit .269/.322/.373 last season with four home runs and 13 doubles.
Barney will likely slot into a backup middle-infield role behind shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and second baseman Devon Travis, and give third baseman Josh Donaldson the occasional day off his feet.
Despite Carrera’s role as a part-time player, the 29-year-old was an important part of the Blue Jays road to the post-season. The corner outfielder filled in admirably for Jose Bautista during his injury-plagued season and provided a unique element to the lineup. He filled in as the lead-off man in 35 of his 110 games, splitting time between left and right field.
The left-handed hitter slashed .248/.323/.356 in 2016, adding six home runs and scoring a career-high 47 runs.
As the roster currently stands, Carrera will be competing with outfielders Melvin Upton Jr., Dalton Pompey, and utility-man Steve Pearce for playing time in the Blue Jays outfield.
