Toronto Blue Jays Report Card: Jose Bautista

With the 2014 Toronto Blue Jays season officially in the books, it comes time to reflect on the individual performances turned in by the players on the Jays’ roster.

Over the coming days, each player on the roster, aside from September call-ups, will have their season recapped and graded. Their contract status will also be examined.

We start with the leader of the team: Jose Bautista

Grade: A

Over the course of the tumultuous season, the Dominican slugger had another outstanding campaign with the Blue Jays, batting .286 while posting an OPS of .928. The 35 home runs he blasted along the way were the most since he led the American League in back-to-back years in 2010 and 2011.

Jul 14, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; American League outfielder Jose Bautista (19) of the Toronto Blue Jays participates in the first round of the 2014 Home Run Derby the day before the MLB All Star Game at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

What stands out the most about Bautista’s numbers this year is his appearance rate. He suited up in 155 of 162 games in 2014. This is only the second time in his career that he has appeared in more than 150 contests. The injury bug that plagued him in 2012 and 2013 did not resurface.

As a result, he recorded a career-high 158 hits for the season to go along with 103 RBIs and 101 runs scored.

Bautista finished the season with the second most walks in the majors, and posted the third highest on-base percentage behind only Andrew McCutchen and Victor Martinez. He was also the first player to reach 100 walks and 100 RBIs this year.

The face of Booster Juice was recognized for his efforts, leading the entire league in terms of all-star voting. The right-fielder was named to his fifth consecutive Midsummer Classic, also serving as the captain for the American League’s home run derby squad.

While most casual fans view Bautista as a purely offensive player, it is important to realize his defensive value. In 2014, he posted a .986 fielding percentage. In addition, he led all MLB right-fielders with 12 outfield assists. With injuries to Adam Lind and Edwin Encarnacion, Bautista filled in admirably at first base, starting 11 games at the position without recording an error.

Next Year’s Contract Status: Under Contract for $14 Million

What sounds like a hefty contract is actually an enormous bargain considering what Bautista brings to the table. Excluding pitchers, some notable names raking in more money than Joey Bats include: Mark Teixeira, Prince Fielder, Carl Crawford, Ryan Howard and Josh Hamilton. As of 2014, Bautista’s production is significantly greater than any of the names on that list.

Unless the Blue Jays decide to blow up their roster, there is no chance Bautista isn’t playing right field in Toronto next season, and rightfully so.