Cavan Biggio, son of HOFer, makes ML debut
This browser does not support the video element.
TORONTO -- The Blue Jays offered another glimpse into their future when prospect Cavan Biggio made his Major League debut Friday.
Biggio, the son of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, went 0-for-3 with a pair of strikeouts as the rookie got a feel for the speed and skill of the big leagues.
"That first at-bat I just kind of got settled in there, and those first three innings or so, I didn’t feel like I was on a baseball field," Biggio said following the Blue Jays' 6-3 loss to the Padres. "I felt like I was in a different setting that I’ve obviously never been in. It just felt weird and awesome in the same place."
Biggio is ranked as the club's No. 9 prospect and got his first taste of Triple-A at the start of the season, where he posted a .307/.445/.504 slash line, with six home runs and 26 RBIs in 42 games.
This browser does not support the video element.
"I’m still trying to be the most consistent hitter I can be," Biggio said before the game. "I worked on my direction a lot this offseason and it’s allowed me to put more balls in play. I think that’s where I see myself striking out less and putting more balls in play."
Biggio played second base, but will be moved around the field as the season goes along. His family was in attendance to see his debut, including his father Craig, who didn't give him a lot of advice as to what he could expect.
"He just told me to have fun and to keep doing what I'm doing," Biggio said.
Roster moves and notes
Lourdes Gurriel Jr. hit a home run in his first game back in the big leagues after spending six weeks in Buffalo.
"I'm working hard trying on my new role as a utility player, playing in the infield or outfield," Gurriel Jr. said through an interpreter.
The Blue Jays also called up left-handed pitcher Thomas Pannone, who drove up with Biggio from Buffalo.
Toronto officially added left-handed pitcher Zac Rosscup to the roster, one day after acquiring him off waivers from Seattle. The club optioned infielder Richard Urena and outfielder Billy McKinney to Buffalo.
Left-handed pitcher Ryan Feierabend was designated for assignment. He appeared in two games and surrendered seven runs in 5 2/3 innings.
Additionally, right-handed pitcher Elvis Luciano was placed on the bereavement list.