Blue Jays Sign Veteran Infielder Joe Panik to Minor-League Deal
By Karl Rasmussen
Joe Panik's tenure in San Francisco came to an end in 2019 when he was designated for assignment and subsequently latched on with his hometown Mets.
Well, he's on the move again ahead of the 2020 campaign, as he'll look to fight for a major league roster spot in Toronto after inking a minor-league deal with the Blue Jays.
Joe Panik has a minor league deal with the #BlueJays, source confirms @longleysunsport report. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 18, 2020
Panik spent the first six years of his big-league career in San Francisco, winning the World Series in 2014 and making his lone All-Star team in 2015. In 142 games in 2019, he slashed .244/.315/.336 with five home runs and 39 RBI.
Never much of a power hitter, Panik has carved out his role in the league with his glove. He won the Gold Glove at second base back in 2016.
Per a source Jays have signed second baseman Joe Panik to a minor league deal with an invitation to the main camp.
— Rob Longley (@longleysunsport) January 18, 2020
Panik's deal features an invite to spring training, so he'll hope to put his best foot forward in the spring and earn a spot in the majors.