Originally developed as a middle infielder in the Blue Jays’ system, Barger has steadily evolved into a reliable defensive Swiss Army knife.
During the 2025 season, he split his time between third base and right field, showcasing the versatility Toronto values throughout its roster.
Barger’s versatility raises a key question heading into 2026: Where does he fit best defensively?
Following the signing of Kazuma Okamoto, a corner infielder from Japan with minimal outfield experience, the answer appears clear. Barger is best suited to anchor right field moving forward.
Addison Barger takes away a hit from Shohei Ohtani 🤯
He also led the American League with nine outfield assists, finishing just two shy of Mike Yastrzemski for the Major League lead.
His elite arm strength sets him apart. Averaging 97 mph on throws – good for the 99th percentile and second-best in baseball – Barger consistently flashed his cannon throughout the season.
That arm, paired with strong instincts, helped produce several highlight-reel plays during the Blue Jays’ memorable postseason run.
Addison Barger reached 99 MPH on this throw to get the out at home 🤯⛽️
Barger’s bit left-handed bat is what is what Blue Jays fans remember from his postseason run
At the plate, Barger delivered solid production during the regular season, batting 21 home runs, driving in 74 runs, and posting a .756 OPS (105 OPS+).
He compiled 2.2 fWAR while
splitting duties between third base and right field, reinforcing his value as a multi-dimensional contributor.
His playoff debut came in Game 1 of the American League Division Series.
Through his first five postseason games, Barger scuffled, hitting .222/.300/.278 with four hits in 20 plate appearances.
Three of those hits came in the decisive Game 4 of the ALDS, before he went hitless in the first two games of the ALCS against Seattle.
Everything changed once the series shifted back to Seattle, the region where Barger was born.
From Game 3 of the ALCS through Game 7 of the World Series, Barger caught fire, slashing .429/.500/.714 with three home runs across 48 plate appearances.
While many Blue Jays fans will remember him for delivering the first pinch-hit grand slam in World Series history – a Game 1 blast off Anthony Banda against the Dodgers – his impact extended far beyond a single moment.
ADDISON BARGER PINCH-HIT GRAND SLAM #WORLDSERIES
