No second guessing needed

Wagner's first stint in the majors lasted long enough to stake his claim

- GREGOR CHISHOLM

Davis Schneider goes after a double hit by former Jay Marcus Semien in the first inning of Wednesday's game against the Rangers in Arlington, Texas.

Will Wagner’s first stint in the majors has been cut short because of injury but it lasted long enough for the 26-year-old to stake his claim for the Blue Jays’ starting job at second base.

Wagner was placed on the 60-day injured list Tuesday with left knee inflammation. The following day, Jays manager John Schneider told reporters Wagner had a scope performed and would be sidelined for a month. He is expected to make a full recovery by next spring.

Barring any setbacks, Wagner should enter camp as the favourite to be the everyday man at second. There will be competition, but the role is Wagner’s to lose following an impressive 24-game run.

His first season officially comes to an end with a .305 average, eight extra-base hits, 11 RBIs and a .788 on-base percentage. While the sample size is small, Wagner had ample time to showcase the upside of his bat, and he also proved capable with the glove.

The overall numbers are impressive, but additional context is required. Wagner caught fire upon arriving in Toronto, hitting .385 with a 1.023 OPS in his first 15 games. The performance dipped in September to .192 with a .442 OPS.

Wagner also got a bit lucky during his initial run.