The Toronto Blue Jays have reunited with their former catcher Tyler Heineman, claiming him off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. In correspondence with this move, the Blue Jays have designated catcher Brian Serven for assignment.
Blue Jays Claim Red Sox Catcher Tyler Heineman Off Waivers
The 33-year-old Heineman first signed with the Blue Jays before the 2022 season. He only played 10 games with Toronto before he was claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Then, in April 2023, Heineman returned to the Blue Jays through a trade involving Vinny Capra. Heineman was then placed on waivers again and claimed by the New York Mets on December 1st, 2023. The Mets then designated him for assignment on January 30th, 2024, and he was traded to the Red Sox on February 2nd in exchange for cash. This move comes as a surprise with two weeks remaining in the regular season.
The 29-year-old Serven worked well with pitcher Bowden Francis, who is pitching well in the regular season’s second half. In terms of offense, Serven was not what you would call a difference-maker. Offensively, Heineman is the stronger of the two and a veteran with more experience. But he has been back and forth in his career, now in his third stint with the Blue Jays. These remaining weeks will function as a test for him. In the majors this season with the Red Sox, he’s only played in two games. He has recorded six home runs, 27 RBIs, and eight stolen bases in the minors with the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox and Double-A Portland Sea Dogs.
Heineman’s Assets
Heineman inconsistencies account for him jumping from team to team and spending a lot of time in the minors. The type of impact he will make in his third stint with the Blue Jays is uncertain, especially since he spent most of this season in the minors with the Red Sox. But he is a batter who can switch-hit, which is one appealing factor he brings. He will also be joining a team with which he is very familiar, providing depth with catching. Early in his career, Heineman also played for the Miami Marlins and the San Francisco Giants. He is also known for having promising defensive skills, a strong arm, and good baserunning.
