Kansas City Royals announced on Tuesday that they have reached a deal with free agent outfielder Jon Jay, who previously played for Chicago Cubs. According to the reports, Jay will get a one year deal, worth $3 million with performance-based bonuses. Royals confirmed the deal on their official Twitter profile.
We’ve signed outfielder Jon Jay to a one-year contract for the 2018 season. Welcome to the #Royals! pic.twitter.com/QmKFx8WBIP
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) March 6, 2018
“[Jay brings] veteran leadership, a very consistent, solid bat,” – said Royals general manager Ned Yost. “Good defense in the outfield. He’ll fit in. Plays all three outfield positions, DH, whatever. A really good teammate. Really productive.”
“Without knowing him, the more homework I do on him, the more I like him. The more people I talk to, the more it’s like, ‘Wow, this guy brings a lot to the table.’” – he added.
In order to make room for Jay on the roster, the Royals placed right-hander Jesse Hahn on the 60-day disabled list.
Jon Jay comes to Royals after a solid 2017 season in which he hit .296 with a .374 on-base percentage adding two home runs.
“I’m prepared to play all three outfield spots,” – said Jay while talking to reporters. “And you can sprinkle me in at first base if you need to. For me it’s simple: I’ll be ready to work. If my name’s in the lineup, I’m ready to work.“
Jon Jay was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of 2006 MLB draft but had to wait for his debut in the majors until 2010. After a strong rookie season, Jay took over the regular center fielder position in 2011 for the Cardinals and helped them to win the World Series. After his role was reduced, the Cardinals traded him to the San Diego Padres in 2015. Although Jay had a strong beginning of the season for Padres, broken forearm injury stopped him from making a bigger impact. After his contact with Padres expired, he signed a one year deal with the Cubs in 2016.
