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Will Wagner’s Journey: From Rehab to Redemption with the Toronto Blue Jays |
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The Missed Milestone |
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| Will Wagner’s Big Moment | Will Wagner, infielder for the Toronto Blue Jays, wasn’t present for his father Billy Wagner’s Hall of Fame induction moment. Billy Wagner received the news in January and Will watched the emotional scene via video call from the Blue Jays’ player development complex in Dunedin, Florida. |
| Family Support | Wagner’s brother showed him the emotional reactions in the room, and Wagner shared, “It was awesome. I wish I could have been there, but I know I needed to be here to further my career.” |
Rehab and Recovery |
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| Injury and Surgery | Wagner’s 2024 season ended on September 17 due to left knee inflammation. He underwent a minor arthroscopic procedure a few days later and was on crutches for about two weeks. He didn’t start swinging a bat until November and wasn’t cleared for running until December. |
| Physical Therapy | Wagner focused on strengthening his left knee with single-leg exercises in the weight room. By December, he was feeling like himself again, eager to contribute to the Blue Jays. |
Flexibility and Versatility |
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| Positional Versatility | Wagner, an 18th-round pick in the 2021 MLB draft, has never found a consistent positional home. After playing second base with the Blue Jays last season, he’s now getting reps at third and is expected to see time at first base and as a designated hitter. |
| Potential Roles | Wagner could spell Ernie Clement at third, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first, or offer a left-handed option in the DH spot. He’s also a candidate to hit leadoff in some games, adding to his utility. |
Manager’s Perspective |
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| Schneider’s Advice | Blue Jays manager John Schneider delivered a simple message to Wagner at the beginning of camp: “Just go play. Don’t worry about what you’re doing or where you’re playing, just go play.” |
| Past Experience | Wagner has experience at third base in the minors, logging 628.2 innings over four different seasons. He’s played 451.2 innings at first base and 1,104.1 innings at second base. |
Third Base Development |
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| Footwork Improvement | Wagner is focusing on improving his footwork, particularly drop steps, to better handle the quick reactions required at third base. He’s working closely with Ernie Clement, benefiting from the experienced player’s insights. |
| Clement’s Influence | Clement, who developed his fielding skills under Jose Ramirez in Cleveland, notes Wagner’s progress and is confident in his young teammate’s abilities. |
Key Performance Highlights |
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| Defensive Play | Wagner showcased his developing instincts with a fantastic read on a bunt by DaShawn Keirsey Jr., catching the ball while sliding on the grass. This play highlights his growing value on the diamond. |
| Team Contributions | Clement is confident that Wagner will be a vital part of the team, helping the Blue Jays win a lot of baseball games. Wagner’s sacrifices during the offseason have paid off, making him an integral part of the squad. |
Conclusion |
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| Father’s Wisdom | “Of course I wanted to be there,” Wagner says, reflecting on missing his father’s Hall of Fame moment. “But my dad knew that I needed to be here. I talked to him a lot after that. I was really happy for him.” |
MLB on Sportsnet |
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