The Toronto Blue Jays have recently taken a significant step in shaping their catching roster by parting ways with veteran catcher William Simoneit just two days before the Triple-A season concluded in 2026. Simoneit, 29, had spent the entire season with the Blue Jays’ Triple-A affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons, after signing a minor league contract in the offseason. Over the year, he hit .247/.330/.386 with 11 doubles and four home runs, playing primarily behind the plate but also seeing some time at first base.

This move comes amid the rise of the Blue Jays’ younger catching options at the major league level. Alejandro Kirk continues to be a dependable presence behind the plate, while 25-year-old rookie Brandon Valenzuela has established himself as a valuable contributor during his first MLB season. Valenzuela has appeared in 85 games, delivering a 1.8 fWAR with a mix of power production – nine doubles and eight homers – despite a batting average of .216.

With Valenzuela and Kirk providing the team’s primary catching depth, the Blue Jays no longer see the need to maintain additional veteran options like Simoneit in the minor leagues. His release frees him to explore opportunities with other organizations this offseason, continuing a minor league career that has already included stints with the Athletics, Phillies, and Cubs. The decision underscores Toronto’s confidence in their emerging catching duo as they head into the 2027 season.

The Blue Jays are now positioned with a clear foundation behind the plate comprising Kirk and Valenzuela. This young tandem reflects the team's forward-looking approach to roster construction while allowing them to streamline depth in their minor league system. Meanwhile, Simoneit becomes a free agent and will seek a fresh start elsewhere in professional baseball as the offseason begins.