The Blue Jays won’t need a miracle to get their money’s worth out of Lourdes Gurriel Jr.:

In an off-season with several pressing needs, few expected the Blue Jays to commit their first $22 million to a player with zero major league at-bats.

Toronto’s seven-year deal with 23-year-old Cuban prospect Lourdes Gurriel Jr., first reported by Jesse Sanchez, represents an intelligent intersection of short and long-term benefit for two reasons:

He will start in their system as a shortstop, meaning defensively he can move down the defensive spectrum, to third base or the outfield. The Blue Jays will easily find a place for him to play. Secondly, if Gurriel gives them one three-WAR season, he pays for his contract. At 23 years old, he should be close to major league ready, and the Blue Jays already locked in his prime years. It’s a great signing that could give Toronto lots of residual value if his upside pans out.

Along with the signing of Kendrys Morales, the Blue Jays are projecting to have quite a bit of money to spend on an elite free agent. Maybe it happens next year instead of this season, or maybe they make a trade for a big contract (Mike Trout?). It looks like Toronto is gearing up for a very big move.