Sandlin an intriguing piece in new-look bullpen

Defensive standout Andres Gimenez was the feature acquisition for Toronto in the four-player trade between the Blue Jays and Cleveland Guardians last December. 

DUNEDIN – Defensive standout Andres Gimenez was the feature acquisition for Toronto in the four-player trade between the Blue Jays and Cleveland Guardians last December.

But right-hander Nick Sandlin was no mere throw-in. The sidearmer gives Toronto’s new-look relief crew some much-needed variety and depth.

“He’s kind of the underrated guy of the bullpen,” Blue Jays manager John Schneider said Saturday. “I was just as thrilled to get him as we were Andres.”

Sandlin posted an 8-0 record and 3.75 earned-run average in 68 appearances last season. He had 68 strikeouts over 57 2/3 innings and held opposing batters to a .222 average.

“He’s really useful,” Schneider said. “Low maintenance and understands exactly what he needs to do to be good.”

The second-round pick out of Southern Mississippi made his big-league debut with Cleveland in 2021. He impressed in his rookie campaign and has primarily served as a reliable middle-inning option.

Sandlin boasts a strong splitter that he uses with a slider and a mid-90s fastball. His unique arm angle makes him a particularly appealing option as a look-changer on the mound.

“I try to get down in there as much as I can at this point,” Sandlin said. “It’s mostly sidearm, just trying to create a little deception, a little something different for hitters to have to pick up the ball from.”