Isiah Kiner-Falefa quits the Yankees to join the Blue Jays
The infielder left New York after spending the last two years with the Yankees to sign with the Canadian team.
Shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa completed the 2023 Major League season with the New York Yankees, but will not return to the MLB’s most winning franchise for the 2024 campaign.
According to a report by MLB Network’s Mark Feinsand, Kiner-Falefa has left the Yankees to sign a two-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays. The agreement still depends on the infielder passing the relevant medical tests.
Blue Jays, Isiah Kiner-Falefa reportedly agree to two-year deal, per https://t.co/Z3s2EphcSH's @Feinsand. pic.twitter.com/YDY4UHUvO4
— MLB (@MLB) December 27, 2023
The player will receive $15 million during his stay with the Blue Jays. The contract also includes a clause that would pay him an extra million dollars if he meets certain performance-related criteria.
Kiner-Falefa played 113 of the 162 regular season games in 2023 and posted batting averages of .242/.306/.646 after connecting 79 hits in 326 at bats and driving in 37 runs.
Kiner-Falefa to Jays. $15M, 2 years plus incentives #ikf
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 27, 2023
What position will Kiner-Falefa play for the Blue Jays?
Kiner-Falefa's ability to play multiple infield and outfield positions will be important for Toronto. The 2020 Gold Glove winner can play shortstop, third base and all three outfield positions.
The Blue Jays infield is defined by Vladimir Guerrero Jr at first base, Cavan Biggio at second base, Santiago Espinal at third base and Bo Bichette is the starting shortstop. For now, the option for Kiner-Falefa is right field because Daultoon Varsho is in left and George Springer occupies center.