BREAKING: Blue Jays Confirms The Release Of Another Top Star

The Blue Jays have released Daniel Vogelbach, as indicated in his transactions log on MLB.com. They will still be responsible for the remainder of his $2 million salary. Any other team can now sign him for the prorated league minimum, with that amount deducted from what the Jays owe.

This release was expected after Vogelbach was designated for assignment last week. Any team claiming him off waivers or trading for him would have had to absorb the rest of his salary. His performance this year, hitting just .186/.278/.300 over 79 plate appearances, made him an unattractive option at that cost. With over five years of service time, Vogelbach could refuse a minor league assignment and still retain his salary, leading to his release and availability on the open market.

Now available at a lower cost, Vogelbach is likely to attract interest from other teams. He is limited as a player, being one of the slowest in the league and offering minimal defensive value. He played only five innings at first base in 2022 and none since. However, his batting potential has kept him in the league.

The Blue Jays have designated Daniel Vogelbach for assignment, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/WyE9VeHKny

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) June 14, 2024

Since debuting with the Mariners in 2016, Vogelbach has played for the Blue Jays, Brewers, Pirates, and Mets. His ability to draw walks at a 15.1% career rate and hit 81 home runs in 1,957 plate appearances has appealed to these teams. His career batting average is .219/.340/.405, with a wRC+ of 108.

When used in a platoon role, his stats improve significantly. Against left-handers, he has a .128/.246/.214 line, but against right-handers, he hits .237/.358/.445, resulting in a 123 wRC+, meaning he’s been 23% above average in those matchups.

#BlueJays announced that Daniel Vogelbach, DFA'd last week, has been released. He's a free agent.

— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) June 19, 2024

Despite his struggles this year, another team might sign him, hoping for a turnaround at a low cost. The Nationals, with a 63 wRC+ from their designated hitter spot, and playoff contenders like the Rays, Reds, Rangers, Royals, and Cardinals, all with a wRC+ below 90 from their designated hitters, could be interested.

ROSTER MOVES:

🔹 UTIL Addison Barger recalled from Triple-A and will be active for tonight’s game

🔹 DH Daniel Vogelbach designated for assignment pic.twitter.com/zzU4e8yNxt

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) June 14, 2024