The Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly been linked to free agent utility man Tony Kemp. Kemp, 32, is entering his 9th MLB season after stints with the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, and most recently, the Oakland Athletics. Kemp has always been considered a low-power, plus-glove and plus-speed player. It’s interesting to see the Blue Jays in on a player like Tony Kemp when a player like Isiah Kiner-Falefa has a very similar play style and is already on the 40-man roster.
Kemp’s Strengths and Weaknesses
In 2023, Tony Kemp slashed .209/.303/.304 in one of the worst statistical seasons of his career. However, Kemp contributed in other aspects of the game offensively. On the basepaths, Kemp tallied 15 stolen bases in 2023. Plus, the ex-Athletic had the lowest K% (9.5%) of his career in 2023 and hardly struck out. Kemp has no problem putting the ball in play, but hitting for power has always been a struggle. If Kemp can increase his Slugging% by a sizable margin in 2024, he can be a well-rounded MLB player.
Another reason why Tony Kemp may be generating interest from the Blue Jays is due to his versatility. Kemp is able to play both in the infield (primarily 2B) and the outfield. However, 2023 was a nightmare defensively for Kemp. He recorded an abysmal -12 DRS defensively in both the infield and outfield. While versatility may seem like an asset at first, Kemp’s struggles at both 2B and OF is a cause for concern.
Should the Blue Jays Pull the Trigger?
The Toronto Blue Jays should not make the move for Tony Kemp. While Kemp has shown in the past that he can be a quality role player, he hasn’t played quality baseball offensively or defensively in the past couple years. According to Spotrac.com, Kemp’s market value is $3,670,488. This money can be used towards other priorities, such as contributing to an extension with either SS Bo Bichette or 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.. With a player like Isiah Kiner-Falefa that is also versatile defensively, steals bases, and provides decent value offensively, Kemp simply doesn’t fit.