Blue Jays looking at Padres slugger to bring in more offense
Photo credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
The Toronto Blue Jays are looking for any and all ways to improve their roster, even though they have Vladimir Guerrero Jr. signed long term, it wouldn't hurt to have a safety option, that's where Ryan O'Hearn of the San Diego Padres could come in handy.
The free agent was traded to the Padres at the deadline by the Baltimore Orioles, and was an AL all-star this season.
Blue Jays hope to sign O'Hearn in free agency.
Graeme Wallace of Blue Jays Nation reported on O'Hearn and what value he could provide the Blue Jays.
O'Hearn was a late bloomer, being drafted in 2014 by the Kansas City Royals, he only found his groove the last couple years and is now an all-star in the league.
"The Baltimore Orioles acquired him during the 2022/2023 offseason, and his debut year within the AL East has coincided with a career turnaround that has the 32-year-old in line for a big payday. Playing as part of a platoon at first base with notorious Jays-killer Ryan Mountcastle, O'Hearn got into 112 games in 2023 and hit .289 with 22 doubles, 14 home runs, 60 RBI, and a .801 OPS. He posted similar numbers in 2024 before another strong campaign last year. "-Wallace
He was then traded to the Padres, where he played a big part in clinching a playoff berth down the stretch. He could prove to be valuable in the first baseman position or the DH slot, while those are both taken by Guerrero Jr. and George Springer respectively, an injury can happen at any time and having O'Hearn to back you up would be useful. He could also play in the outfield if needed.
"O'Hearn's fit on the 2026 Blue Jays may not be an obvious one, as he plays the same position as their most recognizable and arguably best player. He does hit from the opposite side of the plate as Vladdy does, and has logged 121 games in the outfield in his career, mostly in right field. That's a position that is expected to be filled by a combination of Addison Barger, Anthony Santander, and, occasionally, George Springer."-Wallace
The Blue Jays have a bigger priority on pitching, so this would be a luxury to have, maybe if Bo Bichette doesn't re-sign they could find some room for him. But one's thing for sure he would be very useful for the Blue Jays.
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