Blue Jays Opening Day Lineup: Prediction for Starters

The Toronto Blue Jays begin their season against the Athletics. Coming off a World Series appearance, the Jays are priced among the American League favourites in the latest baseball odds at the BetMGM online sportsbook.

There is one notable change to Toronto’s lineup from the end of last season. Continuity could be one of the Jays’ biggest advantages in 2026. 

Related: Where to Watch Toronto Blue Jays vs. Athletics Opening Day

Projected Opening Day Blue Jays Lineup

Catcher: Alejandro Kirk

An elite blocker and framer behind the plate, Alejandro Kirk is worth his place in the lineup on defence alone. He’s also capable of being a very valuable hitter with a low strikeout rate, plenty of barrels, and a healthy number of walks. 

First Base: Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Once again priced among the AL MVP favourites in MLB odds, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is one of the best hitters in the majors. Guerrero has regressed defensively since winning a Gold Glove in 2022, but he’s still capable of playing first base on an everyday basis. 

Second Base: Ernie Clement

The 2025 season was the best the Blue Jays could hope for from Ernie Clement. He was elite defensively (15 outs above average) at multiple positions and used his elite bat-to-ball skills to post a .313 average. 

Third Base: Kazuma Okamoto

A proven power hitter in NPB, Kazuma Okamoto might take some time to adjust to MLB pitching, but he’s got the upside to be an All-Star in the majors. He possesses a good eye and great raw power, with 248 career home runs to his name.

Shortstop: Andrés Giménez

Despite failing to win a Gold Glove for the first time since 2021, Andrés Giménez is still an elite defender. He is, however, coming off the worst offensive season of his career and saw his sprint speed decrease dramatically. Toronto will hope his whiff rate can get back to its level from earlier in his career. 

Left Field: Jesús Sánchez

This is a spot that could change depending on who the Athletics give the ball to on opening day. Jesús Sánchez had a .473 OPS against lefties in 2025, so he won’t get the start if the Athletics select Jacob Lopez or Jeffrey Springs as their opening day starter. 

Centre Field: Daulton Varsho

While Daulton Varsho is much better against righties than lefties, I still expect him to start if Lopez or Springs are getting the ball. Varsho posted a career-best 122 OPS+ in 2025. 

Right Field: Addison Barger

Like Sánchez, Addison Barger is a platoon risk on opening day. He will start against Severino, but might not get the start against Lopez or Springs, considering his .607 OPS against southpaws in 2025. 

Designated Hitter: George Springer

George Springer just had the best offensive season of his career in his age-35 campaign. He’s no longer a passable outfielder, but impressive underlying numbers suggest he can have another big year in 2026.