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MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays, secure additional defensive support with the acquisition of Isiah Kiner-Falefa from the Pittsburgh Pirates via a waiver claim.

Shortstop Kiner-Falefa recruited as backup for potential injuries to Andrès Giménez and Bo Bichette, and further complications with Ernie Clement's hand fracture.

MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays, secure a waiver claim on Isiah Kiner-Falefa, an infielder, from...
MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays, secure a waiver claim on Isiah Kiner-Falefa, an infielder, from the Pittsburgh Pirates, strengthening their positional depth in the process.

MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays, secure additional defensive support with the acquisition of Isiah Kiner-Falefa from the Pittsburgh Pirates via a waiver claim.

Toronto Blue Jays Bolster Roster with Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Tommy Nance

The Toronto Blue Jays have made a couple of roster moves ahead of the second half of the season, with the addition of utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa and the continued strong performance of pitcher Tommy Nance.

Manager John Schneider has praised Nance for his exceptional pitching, stating that he has been throwing the ball extremely well and has earned the team's trust. Nance's impressive form was on display on Sunday, as he was the winning pitcher in the game and recorded two huge outs with the bases loaded and one out to escape a jam in the fifth inning. As a result, Nance's ERA now stands at a impressive 0.82.

Kiner-Falefa, who has been claimed off waivers by the Blue Jays, is also set to make an impact for the team. He is having his best offensive season to date, with a .292 batting average and a .758 OPS. Kiner-Falefa is a versatile player, able to play multiple positions including second, short, third, and center field. He has also demonstrated his speed on the base paths, with 15 stolen bases, tied with George Springer for the most on the Blue Jays.

Unfortunately, the Blue Jays have also suffered a setback with the news that Yimi García will require season-ending surgery on his right elbow and has been transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Meanwhile, Max Scherzer's recent outing was not his best, as he gave up four runs in four innings. Scherzer is currently experiencing tightness in his upper back, and his next scheduled start is on Sept. 6 or 7 at Yankee Stadium.

Ernie Clement's fractured hand may affect his ability to play or produce, and Kiner-Falefa is set to provide insurance in the infield. It is worth noting that Kiner-Falefa has reverted to career norms offensively this season, with a .264 batting average and a .632 OPS.

Schneider has indicated that Nance may be getting chances in big spots more often, as he continues to impress with his pitching. The Blue Jays will assume the remaining 15% of Kiner-Falefa's $7.5-million salary for the 2024 season, as he signed a two-year contract with the team before the start of the season.

Overall, the Blue Jays have made some key moves to strengthen their roster ahead of the second half of the season, with the addition of Kiner-Falefa and the continued strong performance of Nance. As the team looks to make a push for the playoffs, these players will be crucial to their success.

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