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Looks like the Toronto Blue Jays are going all in at the trade deadline
Photo credit: Yahoo Sports
Following their four-game sweep of the Athletics, the 31-28 Toronto Blue Jays are in their best spot in the standings since early April.
Now sitting just half a game back of the Minnesota Twins for the final American League wild-card spot, the Blue Jays are heading into their upcoming series against the Phillies with a renewed sense of optimism.
If the Blue Jays go all-in at the trade deadline, this is how it starts...
Ben Nicholson-Smith from Sportsnet writes that with the July 31 trade deadline approaching, the Blue Jays are aiming to capitalize on their recent momentum and solidify their status as buyers. As with most clubs, their direction will hinge on several key factors, ranging from underlying metrics and roster health to playoff odds and overall record.
"Leading the way were established stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (5 HR, 149 wRC+), Bo Bichette (7 HR, 137 wRC+) and George Springer (6 HR, 134 wRC+) while the likes of Addison Barger (149 wRC+), Nathan Lukes (148 wRC+), Alejandro Kirk (146 wRC+) and Ernie Clement (133 wRC+) were all extremely productive, too." -Nicholson-Smith
If the Blue Jays can maintain that level of play, they'll be contenders all season long. Even if they slip somewhat from their May form, it could still ease the pressure on their pitching staff, giving key relievers a break from the heavy workloads they faced back in April.
"As we saw this past weekend when the Blue Jays swept the A's, it's essential to take advantage of weak opponents when the schedule allows." -Nicholson-Smith
No matter what Baltimore does, the Blue Jays have a genuine opportunity against the A's, White Sox, and Angels, and they need to capitalize now, since those chances won't be available come August or September.
"While the likes of Arjun Nimmala and Trey Yesavage are presumably all but untouchable in trade talks, other minor leaguers can give the front office flexibility by performing well ahead of the deadline." -Nicholson-Smith
If the Blue Jays are true contenders, they'll make moves no matter what's happening with their prospects. But if their fringe prospects perform well, the front office will have more flexibility to get creative and bolster the roster depth.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 2 | 3193 ANSWERS Looks like the Toronto Blue Jays are going all in at the trade deadline Do you actually think the Blue Jays will make the playoffs this season? | ||
| yes | 1358 | 42.5 % |
| no | 1835 | 57.5 % |
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