Photo credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
The Toronto Blue Jays have done a lot of work so far in the offseason, revamping their pitching, and now working hard to sign either Kyle Tucker or Bo Bichette, but a different avenue might be better for them, trading for Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Marte's no trade list was recently made public and the Toronto Blue Jays were not on it which means this could be a real possibility.
Ketel Marte should be a priority for the Blue Jays.
Michael Brauner of Blue Jays SI reported on the lack of urgency with Marte by the Blue Jays. His no-trade list was recently revealed and the Blue Jays weren't on there, but the New York Yankees were, meaning Marte is open to going North and beating the Yankees again.
"Beyond not being blocked for Toronto and hating the Yankees though, Marte is a perfect addition to this team both on offense and defense, potentially serving as the final piece they need to defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers."-Brauner
Marte would slot perfectly at second base, while Andres Gimenez can carry the load at shortstop and at Marte's contract is a steal for the production he offers. The age will not be as much of a concern at 32 years old, because of how inexpensive he is to the Blue Jays.
"Under contract for five more years for a total of just $92 million, Marte is paid like a very solid player, but the numbers indicate he is a superstar. Over the last three seasons, the slugger has has posted a 16.0 bWAR with an incredible looking slash line of .283/.368/.519, hitting a minimum of 25 home runs and even reaching 36 bombs in just 136 games during a 6.8 bWAR campaign where he finished top-three in MVP voting."-Brauner
His numbers may not be as good as Bichette's or Tucker's, but they are pretty close, and he costs potentially $100M less than Bichette and $250M less than Tucker. It would definitely be a wiser choice to go after him, while continuing to invest in the bullpen.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 18|436 ANSWERS The Blue Jays urged to close blockbuster trade Should the Toronto Blue Jays prioritize Ketel Marte over Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker? | ||
| Yes | 110 | 25.2 % |
| No | 326 | 74.8 % |
| List of polls | ||