A.J.

Jimenez

Jimenez only appeared in 27 games this season prior to undergoing Tommy John surgery. However, the 22-year-old is highly-regarded for his defense behind the plate and should be ready for the start of the 2013 season if all goes well.

Jimenez, who had Tommy John surgery last year, is batting .287/.332/.406 with four home runs and 38 RBI over 67 games in the minor league this year. He was a candidate for a September call-up since he’s on the 40-man roster, but that’s uncertain now.

The Blue Jays already consider Jimenez ready from a defensive perspective, but the 23-year-old could use some more time in the minors after being limited to 67 games in the minors this year because of his elbow. Josh Thole will likely serve as Dioner Navarro’s backup until he’s ready.

Jimenez underwent Tommy John surgery in 2012 and was limited to 67 games due to shoulder issues last year, but he spent the offseason building arm strength and says he’s healthy for the first time to start a spring training. In December, Jays general manager Alex Anthopoulos said the 23-year-old could see time in the majors in 2014. The backstop hit .287/.332/.406 across three levels when healthy last season.

The Jays removed Jimenez from their 40-man roster in April, but he’s earned his way back on despite hitting just .241/.290/.377 with four homers for Buffalo in 2016. He’s now protected from the Rule 5 Draft.

Jimenez was designated for assignment by Toronto last week to clear a roster spot for reliever Joe Smith and the 26-year-old catcher passed through waivers unclaimed. Jimenez batted just .241/.290/.377 in 248 plate appearances last season with Triple-A Buffalo.

Jimenez was released by the Blue Jays earlier this week but didn’t take long to land on his feet. The 26-year-old backstop batted just .241/.290/.377 in 248 plate appearances last season at the Triple-A level.

He was removed from the 40-man roster to make room for newly-signed relief pitcher Joe Smith. Jimenez was second on the Blue Jays’ depth chart at catcher until they signed Jarrod Saltalamacchia to a minor league contract on Monday. Jimenez spent last season at Triple-A Buffalo while batting .241/.290/.377 with four home runs in 67 games. The 26-year-old backstop has yet to play in the major leagues.

Jimenez has hit .245/.275/.398 with seven homers for Round Rock this season. He’ll serve as the Rangers’ third catcher.

Jimenez, 25, was batting just .218/.296/.322 over 23 games with Triple-A Buffalo this season. He’s known more for his defense behind the plate and has struggled with injuries since his Tommy John surgery in 2012.