(TORONTO) The Toronto Blue Jays confirmed on Tuesday the arrival of first baseman and free agent Brandon Belt, who signed a one-year, $9.3 million pact with the Canadian team.
The 34-year-old Belt was limited to 78 games last season with the San Francisco Giants due to a right knee injury that required surgery. He finished the season with .213/.326/.350 averages, eight homers and 23 RBIs.
He played his last game on August 20.
In his career, Belt has a .261 overall batting average and a .356 average on base. He helped lead the Giants to World Series triumphs in 2012 and 2014.
“As we continue to build on a strong roster, the offensive qualities and presence of a veteran of Brandon’s caliber will greatly complement this team,” general manager Ross Atkins said in a press release.
“His consistency and experience on the biggest stages of baseball make him a valuable addition culturally and within our locker room,” he added.
A Texas native, Belt was drafted by the Giants in 2009. He spent his 12 major league seasons in San Francisco, hitting 175 home runs and driving in 584 runs.
Belt provides the Jays with a left-handed hitter who should act primarily as a designated hitter, but also as a backup for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on the first sack.
In order to make room for him in their 40-man roster, the Blue Jays have designated right-hander Julian Merryweather for reassignment.