Springer renewing old relationships with new club

DUNEDIN, Fla. — George Springer says it still feels a little strange to put on a Toronto Blue Jays uniform.

It’s understandable, as he is just a few days into spring training with the Blue Jays -- his second Major League Baseball team after seven seasons with the Houston Astros.

“I’ve only known one thing for pretty much my whole life. I’ve only known the stuff in Houston,” Springer said in a video conference Tuesday. “I love those guys, but I’m here now and it’s a new opportunity for me.”

Expectations are high in Toronto after a busy off-season. The Blue Jays landed arguably the most coveted prize in free agency by signing the 31-year-old Springer, a World Series MVP in 2017 and a three-time all-star, to a six-year deal worth a franchiserecord US$150 million in January.

“I’m just going to try to do my job and help whichever way I can, and hopefully lead by example,” he said.

Springer said he has been enjoying the atmosphere so far in the locker room, which includes some familiar faces from his time in Houston.

“Camaraderie is a thing, and I can tell that the guys who have been here, the clubhouse, the locker room that has already been established is a fun locker room, these guys enjoy one another and I’m excited about it.”

One of the teammates Springer is excited about is outfielder Teoscar Hernandez, who was on the rise in Houston before he was dealt to Toronto in the 2017 deal that saw lefty Francisco Liriano head to the Astros.

Hernandez was impressive in 2020, batting .289 with 16 homers and 34 RBI. “I don’t think he’s scratched the ceiling yet with the player he can be. I’m excited to be back with him.”