September 5, 2024
Infielder Josh Rivera was one of two prospects that came over to the Toronto Blue Jays’ system from the Chicago Cubs on July 27th in exchange for major league reliever Nate Pearson.
“When I was first traded to the Blue Jays, there was an initial shocked feeling with this being my first full professional season,” explained Rivera. “Seeing the business side of the game was really eye opening. It was a shock but exciting nonetheless with spring training being in Florida and I’m from Florida. This is a team I’ve watched for a really long time, so there were a lot of emotions and excitement.”
Rivera, who was a 3rd round pick a year ago, may have been the bigger name that came back in the deal, as he is an excellent defender.
Primarily a shortstop, Rivera can also play second base and third base as needed. The prospect takes pride in his defensive versatility.
“My dad taught me how to play every position growing up, so versatility has always been really important to me,” stated Rivera. “However, I can get my name in the lineup and play every day, that’s what I will do. Being able to play any position can really unlock opportunities for you and help the team with their needs as well.”
MLB Pipeline has graded both Rivera’s arm and fielding a 55 on their 20/80 scale.
Adjusting to Double-A pitching this season, Rivera is working towards better production at the plate.
“They can throw all of their pitches in the zone,” Rivera said of Double-A pitching. “Mistakes are less likely to happen at this level. When you get a mistake, you have to be able to capitalize on it. I’ve learned that these guys can command all of their pitches to all parts of the zone, so you have to make them pay for their mistakes when you get them.”
Currently sitting at an OPS of .518 after 292 at-bats in 2024; Rivera talks about his plate approach.
“It has developed a lot more throughout this year,” said Rivera. “Everybody out there has the potential to be a big-league arm, especially at the Double-A level. I’m really trying to see how guys are throwing against me and how they’re sequencing against me. It has been a bit of a roller coaster but that’s this game, it’s a game of adjustments.”
Be sure to follow Josh Rivera, as he continues to be an excellent defender while still adjusting to Double-A pitching.