Quebec Native Mathieu Vallée Signs with Toronto Blue Jays Organization

Record-Setting Speed Lands Opportunity with Jays

A stellar season highlighted by a Frontier League record 83 stolen bases has earned Mathieu Vallée a chance to continue his baseball career within the Toronto Blue Jays organization. The 25-year-old outfielder from Saint-Joseph-du-Lac, Quebec, has officially signed a minor league contract, as confirmed by Vallée himself.

“I’m super proud,” Vallée commented on Thursday. “As soon as I learned that there was interest from the Blue Jays, it was a great time shared with my family and friends.”

Overcoming Obstacles to Reach the Next Level

The signing comes after several weeks of discussions and required passing medical evaluations. Vallée is currently awaiting his work visa before heading to Dunedin, Florida, to begin his journey with the Blue Jays. He expressed confidence in his physical readiness, stating, “I just did some sprints during training at the BQL Center in Blainville and I feel in great shape.”

Vallée’s path to affiliated baseball hasn’t been without challenges. He has battled injuries throughout his career, but his determination has remained unwavering.

“I went through all the stages in the last few years, including a few injuries,” he summarized. “I have often been close to the goal and that makes me really happy to have this opportunity.”“

Dominant Performance in the Frontier League

In 88 games with the Trois-Rivières Aigles in 2024, Vallée not only shattered the Frontier League’s single-season stolen base record but also maintained an impressive .352 batting average. His speed and base-running prowess were evident even earlier in his career, during his time at the University of Southern Illinois and in the MLB Draft League.

Prior to his success in the Frontier League, Vallée showcased his speed, running 60 yards in just over six seconds during his time in the MLB Draft League in 2021. A shoulder dislocation sustained while diving back to first base briefly derailed his progress.

A Long-Awaited Opportunity

Vallée had previously expressed his desire to reach affiliated baseball.

““I think all the players in the Frontier League hope to receive an offer from affiliated baseball,” Vallée had already indicated last August. “I sure would like that.”“

What’s Next for Vallée and the Blue Jays?

Blue Jays spring training is already underway, and Vallée’s arrival in Dunedin will add another potential spark to the organization’s minor league system. Opportunities for young players to showcase their skills in Grapefruit League games are expected to increase in March, coinciding with the World Baseball Classic.

A preparatory game between the Canadian national team and the Blue Jays is scheduled for March 3rd at TD Ballpark in Dunedin.

Aigles de Trois-Rivières Celebrate Vallée’s Success

René Martin, president of the Aigles de Trois-Rivières, expressed his pride in Vallée’s accomplishment.

““Seeing Mathieu sign with the Blue Jays makes me so proud,” Martin commented. “It’s always good to see a Quebecer succeed.”“

Martin acknowledged the loss of a key player but believes Vallée’s success could attract future talent to the Aigles. The Frontier League season is set to begin on May 8th, with the Aigles facing the Windy City ThunderBolts.

Did you know?

Mathieu Vallée’s 83 stolen bases in a single season are the most in the history of the Frontier League.

FAQ

• What position does Mathieu Vallée play? Outfielder.
• What league did Vallée play in before signing with the Blue Jays? The Frontier League with the Trois-Rivières Aigles.
• How many stolen bases did Vallée have in 2024? 83, a Frontier League record.
• Where will Vallée report to? Dunedin, Florida, to join the Toronto Blue Jays’ minor league system.

Vallée’s story is a testament to perseverance and dedication. His exceptional speed and proven ability to receive on base make him an exciting prospect for the Blue Jays organization. Fans in Quebec, and baseball enthusiasts everywhere, will be watching his progress closely.