- Rookie catcher Brandon Valenzuela is enjoying a breakout week, recording his first MLB hit, win behind the plate, and home run in rapid succession.
- Valenzuela’s 383-foot, two-run homer against the Minnesota Twins was clocked at 111.4 MPH, marking the hardest-hit home run by a Blue Jay in 2026.
- Manager John Schneider has praised the 25-year-old’s composure and his ability to quickly build rapport with the pitching staff.
- Acquired from the San Diego Padres last July, Valenzuela credits his comfort level to his experience with the team during last year’s playoff run and the mentorship of veterans like Alejandro Kirk and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
- The rookie played a key role in the Blue Jays’ 10-4 victory, helping stabilize the team during a challenging start for debutant pitcher Patrick Corbin.
Read the full story here: https://www.thestar.com/sports/blue-jays/rookie-valenzuela-making-most-of-opportunity-early-on-with-blue-jays/article_4137b300-4cbf-5ef5-835d-9826aecbbbcd.html
