Bautista: Tulo brought Blue Jays poise, calmness

When the Toronto Blue Jays acquired Troy Tulowitzki last July, they knew they got one of the best all-around shortstops in baseball. Since then, the team has gone 137-97 with back-to-back American League Championship Series appearances, and Tulowitzki's contribution isn't lost on right fielder Jose Bautista.

"He brought a different element of poise and calmness to our club," Bautista told Richard Justice of MLB.com.

"Most of us are the excited, fiery type player that plays with a lot of emotion and experiences a lot of ups and downs. He's kind of the guy that stays even. It's great to have him in the dugout and clubhouse. If you ever want to talk to someone who keeps it in perspective at all times, he's one of those guys."

While Tulowitzki has failed to duplicate his elite offensive numbers from when he played with the Colorado Rockies (.299/.371/.513 compared to .250/.318/.427), the veteran shortstop has provided the Blue Jays with elite fielding at the position. Since the trade, he's compiled an UZR of 14.4 - eighth best in the majors during that time, according to FanGraphs.

"Obviously, his contributions on the field are giving up another middle-of-the-lineup bat," Bautista said. "He was an upgrade on the defensive side as well. He has done a terrific job of bringing the elements of his game into our club."