Former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder and defensive standout Kevin Pillar is back in Toronto this week, bringing his expertise to the forefront as a contributor to Sportsnet’s extensive World Series coverage. Fans can look forward to seeing him present for the highly anticipated Game 5 on Wednesday night as well.
During his time in the spotlight, Pillar expressed his thoughts on the controversial trade of Teoscar Hernandez to the Seattle Mariners ahead of the 2023 season. This sentiment was shared through the Toronto Sun:
“It’s a shame when you have a guy like that in a place like this and (Blue Jays management) decide not to bring him back,” Pillar remarked after the Dodgers secured a 4-2 victory in the Bronx. “As a former teammate of his, I’m happy to see him have success.”
“He’s in a great place if he wants to win.”
With Hernandez entering the final year of his contract in 2023, the Blue Jays made the strategic decision to trade him rather than face the impending arbitration increase. In a separate trade, they also dealt Lourdes Gurriel Jr. to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Throughout the 2023 season, Hernandez showcased his prowess by belting 26 home runs for Seattle, subsequently signing a one-year contract with the Dodgers last offseason, where he won the coveted home run derby title at the All-Star Game, concluding the year with an impressive tally of 33 home runs and 99 RBIs.
Pillar did not hold back in praising Hernandez, who will become a free agent once more at the end of the season:
“I think he’s a tremendous player,” Pillar stated enthusiastically regarding Hernandez. “Teoscar’s not just an unbelievable hitter (for) power, average, he’s a sneaky runner. He’s one of those players who possesses five tools. He has an unbelievable arm. He has the ability to go get it out there.”
Although Kevin Pillar has traversed various teams throughout his 12-season major league career—playing with franchises including the San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, Colorado Rockies, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Atlanta Braves, and the Los Angeles Angels—he remains a beloved figure for Blue Jays fans.
From 2015 to 2018, Pillar solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier outfielders while playing for the Blue Jays. During his tenure, he was pivotal in leading two Blue Jays squads to the American League Championship Series in both 2015 and 2016.
In the 2023 season, Pillar found himself splitting time between the White Sox and Angels, finishing with a .229 batting average. Earlier this summer, he hinted that retirement was on the horizon after this season, although he hasn’t made a formal announcement yet. If he chooses to continue playing, it’s likely he would attract interest for his veteran experience and leadership qualities in a clubhouse. With his 36th birthday approaching, the decision looms larger.
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**Interview with Kevin Pillar: Former Blue Jays Outfielder and Current Sportsnet Analyst**
**Editor:** Kevin, it’s great to see you back in Toronto! How does it feel to return to the city and contribute to the World Series coverage on Sportsnet?
**Kevin Pillar:** It’s always a pleasure to come back to Toronto. I have so many fond memories with the Blue Jays and the fans here. Being able to bring my experiences to the coverage is really exciting, especially with Game 5 on the horizon.
**Editor:** Speaking of the Blue Jays, you recently shared your thoughts on the trade of Teoscar Hernandez to the Seattle Mariners. Can you elaborate on your feelings regarding that decision?
**Kevin Pillar:** Yes, I think it’s a shame when you see a talent like Teoscar not remain with the team. He’s the type of player that any organization would want. As his former teammate, I’m just really happy to see him thriving out in Seattle and now with the Dodgers.
**Editor:** You’ve praised Hernandez’s abilities, calling him a “tremendous player.” What specific qualities make him stand out in your eyes?
**Kevin Pillar:** Teoscar brings a lot to the
