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Bonifacio Wins Starting Job

Posted on July 17, 2013 at 06:22 PM.

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By Andrew Newsted / MLB.com

DeRosa Wins Final Bench Spot, Bonifacio Wins Starting Job

Mark DeRosa, who came into camp without a job knew that he could very well also be leaving camp without a job in the big leagues. The veteran infielder can play many positions and along with his veteran stability and presence, he made the roster for the 2012 Toronto Blue Jays. Blue Jays manager John Gibbons stated the following: "We have a fairly young team here in Toronto and we feel that the sort of veteran presence that a player like Mark can bring to the clubhouse has a positive impact." When asked if he has a guarenteed spot on the big league roster for the rest of the season, Gibbons response was: "Well, he might have an impact in the clubhouse but the impact on the field is more important right now. If he shows that he can perform, they sure, but if he can't, that's another story."

In other news around the Blue Jays spring training, utility player Emilio Bonifacio, acquired in the same trade that brought pitcher Josh Johnson and shortstop Jose Reyes to Toronto, has won the starting second base spot for the big league club. Bonifacio, who missed a large amount of time last season with an injury, proved that he has tons of speed to burn on the base paths and is a relatively good fielder. He has played at almost every position, making appearances at center field, right field, left field, shortstop, third base and second base. He has yet to pitch, play backcatcher or first base in his career.