Springer's health key to Jays' offensive output

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 DUNEDIN, Fla. — Almost from the get-go, it was a frustrating start to George Springer’s tenure in a Toronto Blue Jays uniform.

From a March oblique injury to an unexpected April quad issue that delayed his debut to a left knee sprain in August, all told Springer played just 78 games in the first year of his six-year, $150-million mega-deal.

Despite the health woes, however, it was vintage Springer when he was on the field, as he was on a 40-plus-homer pace and all the other numbers were right in line with his career production.

He simply needs to stay on the field. And that hasn’t been easy for the 32-year-old centre fielder.

Heading into 2022, Springer hasn’t played more than 140 games since 2016. In fact, the full 162-game slate he played that season is still the only time he’s crossed that threshold.

It is very obvious health is the key in year two with the Jays.

“I’m trying to just be smarter in general, understanding my body and knowing when to use 100 per cent and when not to,” Springer said after making his spring debut this week. “I don’t know if that’s injury-related, or hopefully me just being smarter, but just kind of understanding to slow down and play 100 per cent, but just be smart.”

Where Springer’s impact might’ve been felt most is in the clubhouse.

As expected, the World Series experience Springer injected into a young group was worth its weight in gold, even if it can’t really be quantified.

Sometimes it can be hard for players in the training room to take on a leadership role, especially when you’re joining a new organization, but Springer’s presence was noticeable last year and it’s even more apparent this spring around the Blue Jays' player development complex.

“He’s a star,” Jays