There was speculation that Gift Ngoepe who has a minor league option available would begin the season with the herd in Triple-A Buffalo with veteran Danny Espinosa remaining with the Blue Jays.
Ngoepe became the first player of South African descent to play in the majors last season when he made his debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates in late April. The 28-year old is known as a glove-first player who has the ability to play all over the infield. Ngoepe did little with his bat to help his chances this spring hitting .152/.291/.283 with a home run and two stolen bases in 55 Grapefruit League at-bats.