Changes are sweeping throughout the MLB.
The Toronto Blue Jays are making a significant change to their turf field at the Rogers Centre and beloved MLB veteran Jonny Gomes is reportedly going to play overseas.
Earlier today the Blue Jays announced on Twitter that the organization plans to begin work during the week of Feb. 8 to "install a regulation dirt infield in time for the 2016 regular season."
The team also issued a press release and said it will follow through with the change after months of investigation and planning. The Rogers Centre is famous for its turf, as it's one of two MLB stadiums (along with Tropicana Field) that have artificial surfaces.
"We are very excited to proceed with this project," Stephen Brooks, Senior Vice President, Business Operations, said in the press release. "This will both improve the surface for the players and also enhance the atmosphere of the stadium for our fans."
This could mean the Blue Jays' infielders are in for a big adjustment in 2016 as they'll now be playing on dirt year-round instead of just half the season.
Speaking of adjusting, 13-year veteran Jonny Gomes is heading to Japan for the 2016 season after growing tired of waiting for an MLB offer.
"Gomes, 35, told FOX Sports Tuesday night that he has agreed to a one-year contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles," writes FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal. "The deal, announced by the team early Wednesday, includes a mutual option. Gomes is guaranteed $2 million and can earn another $1 million in incentives."
Gomes was a member of the 2015 World Champion Kansas City Royals as well as the Boston Red Sox' 2013 championship team. The Royals rejected his $3 million team option following the 2015 season.
The veteran, who hasn't played a whole lot in recent years, was (and still is) highly regarded as a positive clubhouse presence. However, he couldn't find a suitor this time around with just a few weeks before pitchers and catchers report to spring training.
"This is not how it's supposed to be," Gomes said. "It seems like the players are getting bullied. It's February. These people are human beings. They have families. They've got to make plans."
He's got a good point. And he did something about it. He'll be in Japan playing the game he loves to further bolster his resume to "prepare for a future as a coach, manager or broadcaster," Rosenthal added.
