In a move that’s sure to spark conversations among baseball fans, the Toronto Blue Jays have re-signed Rafael Lantigua to a minor league deal, bringing the versatile infielder back into the fold after a brief stint with the Phillies. But here’s where it gets interesting: Lantigua, a 27-year-old right-handed hitter from the Dominican Republic, has been knocking on the major league door for years, yet he’s still waiting for his debut moment. Will 2026 finally be his year? Alongside Lantigua, the Blue Jays also added infielder Carlos Mendoza and confirmed deals with Jorge Alcala, Eloy Jiménez, and Michael Plassmeyer—all of whom have received non-roster invitations to big league camp. And this is the part most people miss: these signings aren’t just about depth; they’re strategic moves to bolster the team’s versatility and on-base capabilities.
Lantigua’s journey is particularly compelling. Originally signed by the Blue Jays in 2016, he climbed the ranks to Triple-A by 2022 and spent two full seasons with their Buffalo affiliate before testing minor league free agency. Last winter, he joined the Phillies, where he batted .230/.356/.330 across 495 plate appearances in the International League. While his on-base percentage was impressive—thanks to a 15.6% walk rate and a low 14.7% strikeout rate—his power numbers left much to be desired. With just seven home runs and a .260 average on balls in play, Lantigua struggled to make hard contact consistently. Still, his brief call-up to the majors in September—cut short due to an injury to Edmundo Sosa—shows he’s on the radar. But here’s the controversial question: Can Lantigua’s high on-base skills outweigh his lack of power, or is he destined to remain a minor league stalwart?
Carlos Mendoza, another undersized infielder, brings a similar profile to the table. A left-handed hitter, Mendoza batted .287/.394/.409 in the Detroit system last year, showcasing his ability to get on base with more walks than strikeouts. Primarily a second or third baseman, Mendoza spent most of his season in Double-A and failed to crack Detroit’s 40-man roster before becoming a free agent. Is Mendoza’s on-base prowess enough to earn him a spot in the majors, or will his lack of defensive versatility hold him back?
These signings highlight the Blue Jays’ focus on players who prioritize getting on base, a strategy that’s both smart and, to some, unconventional. While neither Lantigua nor Mendoza are power hitters, their ability to draw walks and make contact could prove invaluable in late-game situations. But what do you think? Are the Blue Jays onto something, or are they overlooking the need for power in today’s game? Let us know in the comments—this is one discussion you won’t want to miss!
