Five key Blue Jays trade deadline questions: Who are the pitching targets?

New York Times

5 days ago

As the Toronto Blue Jays slogged through a doubleheader against the Orioles, the upcoming trade deadline hung over Camden Yards. Toronto entered Tuesday at 63-44, 5 1/2 games up on the Yankees in the American League East. Thursday's deadline represents one final opportunity for GM Ross Atkins to bolster a first-place roster for the Jays' hopeful playoff push.
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To discuss the deadline and set up a crucial week for the club, Blue Jays beat writer Mitch Bannon hosted a live Q&A with The Athletic subscribers on Tuesday afternoon. Here are five key questions that were asked and answered during the chat.
For more deadline coverage, read the full Q&A transcript, visit our Blue Jays section for new stories, or check out our live blog for the latest all week long.
1. In a sellers' market, which starters and relievers can the Blue Jays target? (Veronica C.)
On the market in general: I've heard it took a while to really start moving after the draft, but things are gaining traction the last few days (obviously leading to the few moves we've already seen).
But you're right, there aren't too many clear sellers still. I don't think that lack of sellers will seriously impact the relief market prices though. There seem to be quite a few high leverage guys and middle relievers available. Even if closers like David Bednar and Jhoan Duran don't move, Danny Coulombe and Phil Maton should be available (amongst many others). Rental sixth/seventh inning guys don't cost too much this time of year.
The starting pitching market is a little more complicated for Toronto. There aren't many obvious rotation upgrades, so the Jays will likely turn to creative depth. Swingmen like Mike Soroka and Steven Matz fit that mold. Or they could target an optionable depth guy.
2. his trade deadline feels remarkably straightforward. Besides the list of players the industry has already assumed might be available, are there others Atkins might pursue? (Shaun J.)
You're right, it does feel pretty cut and dry.
The one aspect I've been trying to dig on is what optionable starters could be available. Nobody really saw Mitch White getting traded a few deadlines ago, but that's the type of guy that could insulate Toronto's rotation without immediately pushing someone out. The Athletics' Mitch Spence is one option I found.
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3. Is there a scenario where the Blue Jays are simply not active at the deadline, or are they definitely going to make trades? Is there a risk of disturbing the balance and rhythm of the clubhouse? (Terence H.)
I just don't see inactivity from Toronto — and everything I'm hearing indicates they're checking on a lot of players (though that's the Jays' usual mode of function this time of year).
Sure, the Jays are playing good baseball right now. But it's about playing good baseball for the next two months and into October. Filling bullpen holes and adding a bat or depth starter will help that cause. I don't think a few relievers and a bench bat will drastically impact the mojo of this squad in a meaningful way. If anything, additions can add excitement to a clubhouse.
4. Is there anyone on the prospect list who is off the table for trade talks with other clubs? (Daniel C.)
I don't think the Jays take prospects 'off the table' in that sense — so I guess my answer is no.
But, barring a massive blockbuster, I don't see Toronto's top 1-2 prospects (Nimmala, Yesavage) moving at this deadline. There wasn't a single Top 100 prospect moved at last year's deadline. So, if the Jays shop in the rental market or acquire cheaper controllable players, they can get that business done without purging the top of the farm.
5. Thoughts on what they decide to do with Bo Bichette? Extend, trade, or wait it out? (All Beard N.)
The Jays don't love negotiating with players midseason. With the run this team is on, I think that would only further dissuade them from starting talks with Bichette right now.
It's in Bichette's interest to play out this season (especially as he seems to be heating up right now) and see how high he can push his value. I think the Jays are content to let him do that before getting serious about a deal in the winter.
(Photo of the Pirates' David Bednar, who would make sense for the Blue Jays:)