Arjun

Nimmala

Nimmala, a 2023 first-round pick, is the Jays’ most exciting prospect, even though he doesn’t figure to emerge as a major leaguer for at least a couple of more years. He hit .232/.313/.476 with 16 homers in 82 games in the Florida State League last year, and he should move up to high-A to open 2025.

Jimenez will get Friday night’s game off, and 2024 first-round pick Arun Nimmala will instead get the start at shortstop.

Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline reports that Nimmala will receive a $3 million signing bonus, which is roughly $750,000 under-slot for the 20th overall pick. He’s one of the most intriguing prospects from his draft class as he attempts to become the first player of Indian descent to reach the major leagues. The 17-year-old prep shortstop was one of the youngest hitters in the draft and has excellent bat speed, which gives him a chance to make an impact for fantasy managers down the road. He’ll certainly be worth monitoring in dynasty and keeper league formats.

Nimmala is aiming to become the first player of Indian descent to reach the majors and represents a fascinating lottery ticket for Toronto. The 17-year-old shortstop is one of the youngest players in the entire draft and should grow into some big-time over-the-fence power down the road. He possesses lightning-quick bat speed, which gives him a chance to make an impact for fantasy managers down the road, if he can overcome some of the swing-and-miss issues in his profile. He’s a few hyperspace jumps away from the majors, but he’s one of the most intriguing prospects in this class, and has a chance to blossom into the Blue Jays’ shortstop of the future.