Toronto activated catcher Alejandro Kirk from the 60‑day injured list on Friday, ending a forearm strain that sidelined him since late May . To make room, the Blue Jays designated veteran backup Tyler Heineman for assignment, a move aimed at retaining 24‑year‑old rookie Brandon Valenzuela, who has impressed with both his bat and glove.

Kirk’s return adds veteran stability to a struggling lineup

Manager John Schneider said Kirk’s plate discipline and rapport with pitchers will help steady a lineup that has under‑performed relative to preseason expectations . Before his injury , the 25‑year‑old posted a .250 average with six homers, and the club hopes his rehab work will translate into immediate production.

Valenzuela’s .283 average prompts the Blue Jays to protect his option

Valenzuela, who has hit .283 with a .341 on‑base percentage in limited action,also boasts a strong arm and game‑calling skills that have impressed the coaching staff. Because he still carries minor‑league options, Toronto can shuffle him without risking a roster crunch, a crucial advantage as the team chases a playoff spot in the AL East.

Heineman’s $1.2 million contract makes him a waiver target

Tyler Heineman, signed to a one‑year, $1.2 million deal in the offseason, was the primary backup after Kirk’s injury and later to Valenzuela. According to the report, clubs such as the Miami Marlins and Pittsburgh Pirates have shown interest, and his defensive reputation could attract a claim if he clears waivers.

Depth beyond the majors: Rushing, Jansen and the bullpen outlook

Beyond the major‑league roster, top prospect Dalton Rushing remains at Triple‑A Buffalo, while injured‑list regular Danny Jansen is slated to return in September. The extra roster spot created by Heineman’s designation could be used to bolster the bullpen or add outfield depth as the trade deadline looms.

What’s still unclear about Toronto’s catching strategy?

Two specific questions remain: Will Heineman be claimed off waivers, and can Kirk regain his pre‑injury form quickly enough to justify the roster shuffle? The source notes that the Blue Jays are monitoring waiver activity closely, but no firm decision has been announced.