Blue Jays’ Tyler Heineman removed vs. Twins due to ‘manager’s decision’

The Toronto Blue Jays decided to make a change behind the plate Sunday against the Minnesota Twins in what John Schneider called a “manager’s decision.”

After Tyler Heineman hit a flyout on the first pitch in the sixth inning with the bases loaded, the Blue Jays lifted the catcher from the game.

When asked about his manager’s decision, Heineman took ownership for not coming through for his team.

“Just the situation, everything that’s been going on, and I just didn’t get it done. Manager’s decision. I stick by it,” Heineman said. “One of the best managers in the game, the best manager I played for. He has a reason for everything he does. And I fully support him.”

The 34-year-old has been splitting the catching duties with Brandon Valenzuela since Alejandro Kirk suffered a left thumb fracture on April 4.

In 21 games this season, Heineman has struggled at the plate hitting .176/.222/.176 with two RBI.

“That at-bat was pretty trash. I popped up on a pitch I should’ve drove,” Heineman said. “And I’ve been pretty crappy the last 10 games or so. So, he probably saw something that he shouldn’t have saw or that I did wrong.”

Valenzuela is hitting .205/.255/.409 with three home runs and six RBI in 17 games since being recalled.