Toronto Blue Jays: Is Third Baseman Brett Lawrie Ready for the Big Leagues?

After being called up to the Toronto Blue Jays on Aug. 4, 2011, the Langley, British Columbia, native quickly became one of the Blue Jays' biggest stars.

Making his MLB debut a day later against the Baltimore Orioles, Lawrie singled for his first career major league hit, and snagged his first RBI in the big leagues, too. 

The third baseman finished the game going 2-4 at the plate with an RBI and one error on defence. Two games later, Lawrie would hit his first career home run against the Orioles off starting pitcher Alfredo Simon. 

At this point, Lawrie was making sports headlines everywhere as his play improved during the remainder of the season. 

However, his season was cut short due to a finger injury suffered on Sep. 21 while fielding during batting practice. 

It's easy to say that Lawrie was the hottest minor league call-up during the 2011 MLB season.

As spring training is getting closer and closer, an important question must be asked by the Toronto Blue Jays organization: Is Lawrie ready to take on a full-time job in MLB? 

The answer: There are more reasons why Lawrie is ready than not ready.

Last season, the third baseman played in 43 MLB games, recording 44 hits, nine home runs, 25 runs batted in, seven stolen bases and a .293 batting average. 

Not bad for a Canadian call-up.

Lawrie also suited up for 69 AAA games with the Las Vegas 51s, recording 103 hits, 18 home runs, 61 runs batted, 13 stolen bases and a .353 batting average.

These stats reflect Lawrie's true playing style.  He's capable of producing big numbers at the dish and decent speed on the base paths. 

These numbers are also very promising for the youngster's MLB future; they will only improve in the upcoming campaign.  

If there is anything for the young Canadian baseball star to improve on, it's his discipline in the batter's box.  Lawrie struck out 31 times during 150 at-bats in his 43 games played in MLB.

As Lawrie gains experience in the big leagues, his strikeout totals will decrease over time with the help of his teammates and coaching staff. 

Lawrie could also improve on his hands in the hot corner, posting six errors in the field during his stint with the Blue Jays.  His errors will also decrease with the help of his teammates and coaching staff.

It's safe to say that Lawrie's ready for the 2012 MLB season as a full-time third baseman. 

However, it's important to remember that Lawrie is still only 22 years old—a youngster who's still learning how to be successful in the big leagues.

Both the fans as well as the Toronto Blue Jays' organization will have to keep this in mind.  Nonetheless, Lawrie has a bright future in a Blue Jays uniform.