In a Major League Baseball season crowded with standout catchers like Cal Raleigh and Will Smith, Alejandro Kirk remains surprisingly underappreciated despite his recent surge. Since late May, the Toronto Blue Jays’ resurgence has brought Kirk’s remarkable offensive contributions into sharper focus, highlighting why he is an Alejandro Kirk underrated hitter in baseball 2024 that fans and analysts should not overlook.
After being swept by the Tampa Bay Rays on May 25, the Blue Jays turned their fortunes around dramatically, winning 13 of 16 games and climbing to the top wild card position while closing the gap to the New York Yankees in the AL East standings. Throughout this impressive run, Kirk’s performances have been a key factor in the team’s success and have set him apart from his peers.
Outstanding Offensive Output During the Blue Jays’ Resurgence
Since May 25, Kirk has hit at an extraordinary clip, posting a slash line of .442/.475/.635 with a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 212, indicating he has produced offense at more than twice the league average. Over this period, Kirk accrued six extra-base hits, including two home runs, and drove in 13 runs. His plate discipline stands out as well, with just four strikeouts in 59 at-bats, showcasing his ability to put the ball in play and contribute consistently to the Blue Jays’ offense.
This performance is not a sudden development but a return to form after a period hampered by injuries and a decline in quality contact. Kirk, who earned All-Star and Silver Slugger honors in 2022, is once again proving to be a high-contact hitter with strong defensive skills—his arm strength and pitch framing behind the plate continue to make him a reliable presence for Toronto.
The Lack of Recognition Despite Exceptional Numbers
Despite Kirk’s strong showing this season and throughout the current stretch, recognition at the league level remains limited. For example, MLB.com’s most recent power rankings for the top hitters only included Kirk as an honorable mention, placing Juan Soto at number 10, even though Kirk’s offensive numbers in recent weeks have outpaced Soto’s.
This discrepancy raises questions about why Kirk’s value is not more widely acknowledged, especially given the tangible impact he has had on Toronto’s improved record and playoff positioning. His ability to maintain high contact rates, drive runs, and contribute behind the plate exemplifies his all-around value—a factor that should command greater attention from media and analysts alike.
What Kirk’s Performance Means for the Blue Jays and Baseball
If the Blue Jays maintain their current momentum, Alejandro Kirk’s reputation as one of the most underrated hitters in baseball will likely grow. His resurgence could not only elevate Toronto’s status in the AL East but also shift perceptions of his standing among elite players at his position. For a team fighting to climb the standings, Kirk’s blend of offensive prowess and defensive craftsmanship will be vital moving forward.