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  • Toronto Blue Jays Free Agent & Trade Rumors, Notes, & Tidbits

    The latest Toronto Blue Jays free agent and trade rumors, along with notes and tidbits about the team.
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    Matthew Lenz
    The San Diego Padres plan to be buyers at the deadline in anticipation of a playoff push. They may also be sellers, and the Toronto Blue Jays could be one of their suitors.
    Jon Heyman of the New York Post is reporting that the Toronto Blue Jays have "expressed interest" in San Diego Padres starting pitcher Dylan Cease.
    Across 20 starts and 108.2 innings pitched, Cease's. ERA currently stands at 4.64, which is more than a full run higher than his FIP, suggesting he's experienced some bad luck or been hurt by his defense. Cease continues to be a high-strikeout pitcher, with a K% of 30.0% and a BB% of 8.4%, translating to an impressive K-BB% of 21.6%. He will be a free agent at season's end with incredible upside despite his under-performing surface stats. Given the shallow starter's market and the numerous teams seeking rotation help, his cost will be substantial. Any team acquiring the right-hander will likely need to overpay to acquire him. Moreover, given the Padres' position in the playoff picture, they are likely looking for a combination of MLB-ready and prospect pieces.
    Should the Toronto Blue Jays do what it takes to acquire Dylan cease? Join the conversation in the comments!
    Brock Beauchamp
    In Jim Bowden's latest roundup of all 30 MLB teams and where they stand 10 days from the MLB trade deadline, he mentions that the Blue Jays have been connected to several Pirates pitchers and a pair of Diamondbacks pitchers.
    The Pirates mentioned are Mitch Keller, Dennis Santana, and David Bednar.
    The Diamondbacks mentioned are Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.
    Additionally, in a Blue Jays trade deadline roundup from Mitch Bannon (also of The Athletic), it's highlighted that as the middle of the American League Central stumbles out of playoff contention, it could be a boon for Toronto. In particular, the Guardians and Twins have a bevy of upside, high-impact arms that any contender could slot into a closer's role.
    The Blue Jays have the 26th-ranked FIP in baseball at 4.57. They have ninth-ranked bullpen FIP at 3.79.
    Simon Li
    The Blue Jays have lacked international amateur free agents since the debut of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.. Still, this duo of teenage prospects may hopefully be a change in that, as they both made the Dominican Summer League All-Star Team.
    Catcher Franklin Rojas was ranked the 22nd prospect by FanGraphs after a successful 17-year-old campaign in the DSL. Still, he was even better as an 18-year-old, showing strong contact ability with a .298 batting average, in addition to a near 50% on-base percentage, walking 17.3% of the time with eight HBPs. Rojas also only stuck out only 13.6% of the time, although he only had two extra base hits. The teenager was given a contract worth slightly less than $1 million in the 2024 international amateur free agent class, as the Jays spread their pool after Kennew Blanco could not sign due to age-related issues.
    Infielder Juan Sanchez received the second-largest contract from the Jays' 2025 International Free Agency class, receiving just under $1 1-million himself. The 17-year-old (who turns 18 in September) slashed .316/.452/.513 for the Blue Jays second DSL-Red team, which was good for a 154 wRC+. Sanchez has flexed the power that got him ranked as one of the better prospects in the 2025 class, as he had five homers, six doubles, and a triple in just 146 plate appearances. 
    Simon Li
    According to Keegan Matheson from MLB.com, Khal Stephen is getting the call to New Hampshire after spinning a 1.49 ERA/2.80 FIP in nine starts and 48 1/3 IP. The second-rounder from Mississippi State has shown advanced command and walked just a little over 5% of the batters that he faced, utilizing a deep arsenal. 
    In addition to Khal Stephen receiving the call to Double-A, outfielder and Jays Centre's number 20 prospect, Victor Arias, is also being promoted to Double-A. The 21-year-old slashed .294/.381/.437 in 318 plate appearances.
    A couple of promising prospects are also being transferred from Dunedin to Vancouver, with Victoria, BC native Sam Shaw returning to his home province, and catcher Edward Duran also joining him. Both of these hitting prospects have been among the best hitters for Dunedin and have rightfully earned this promotion. This will also help clear some space for the incoming draft prospects of this year's draft. 
    Bryan Jaeger
    The Blue Jays selected Tim Piasentin at #143 in the 2025 MLB Draft. Piasentin is a third baseman at Foothills Composite HS in Alberta, Canada. The slot value for the pick is $503,800. The Canadian was ranked 116th on our Jays Centre MLB Mock Draft Board.
    Here's what our write-up of Piasentin by our draft expert, Jamie Cameron:
    "Piasentin is a physical prep prospect out of Alberta with an imposing, 6'3, 205-pound frame. Piasentin put up one of the more impressive rounds of batting practice and the MLB Draft Combine, underscoring that power is the calling card of the offensive profile. There's some swing and miss in this profile, but that's not uncommon for a prep prospect for whom there's a coat of two of polish to apply.
    Defensively, it's a plus arm ideally suited to third base. He's not a great mover, and there's work to do on the actions in the infield. Still, with two-plus tools, there's a chance an org takes a chance on Piasentin in the first three rounds and pulls him away from his commitment to Miami."
    What do you think of the pick? Add your thoughts in the comments.
    Bryan Jaeger
    The Blue Jays selected Micah Bucknam at #112 in the 2025 MLB Draft. Bucknam is an RHP at Dallas Baptist (TX). The slot value for the pick is $680,800. 
    Here's what MLB.com says about Bucknam:
    "One of the best Canadian prospects in the 2022 Draft, Bucknam turned down the Blue Jays as a 16th-rounder to attend Louisiana State. He worked just 16 innings in two seasons in Baton Rouge because of command issues, enjoying more success in two summers in the Cape Cod League before transferring to Dallas Baptist. He became the Patriots' No. 1 starter and has some of the best feel for spin in the college ranks."
    Bucknam struggled at Louisiana State in 2023 and 2024, posting an 11.57 ERA over seven innings and a 7.00 ERA over nine innings, respectively. He transferred to Dallas Baptist this past spring and threw 62 1/3 innings, posting a 4.62 ERA with an 80:25 strikeout:walk ratio.
    The righty is still raw, but he has shown he can correct his command issues. He has a four-pitch arsenal that Bucknam will need to improve on, but his fastball ranges in the 92-96 mph range, and curveball, slider, and changeup hang around the low-mid 80s, so this swing and miss potential with his speed differences.
    What do you think of the pick? Add your thoughts in the comments.
    Matthew Lenz
    The Toronto Blue Jays, currently in 1st place in the American League East, biggest need at the upcoming trade deadline is in their starting rotation.
    While they've been tied to some different names over the last few weeks, we have a new name entering the mix. Bob Nightengale of USA Today is reporting that the Toronto Blue Jays are interested in Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen.
    Gallen's 2025 season has been a struggle. Through 115 innings pitched across 20 starts, Gallen's ERA sits between 5.40 ERA. His underlying metrics also reflect these difficulties, with a 4.80 FIL and a
    strikeout-minus-walk rate (K-BB%) is 13.1%, marking a notable decline in his ability to control the strike zone effectively, contributing to his highest ERA in years. He will be a free agent at seasons end.
    Should the Blue Jays pursue a struggling rental or go for a bigger target? Join the conversation in the comments!
     
    Matthew Lenz
    It's been over 15 months since Alek Manoah has pitched for the Toronto Blue Jays, but he is making small steps towards returning to the Rogers Centre mound.
    Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet is reporting that former Cy Young Award finalist will begin a rehab assignment on Monday, July 14th with the Blue Jays FCL affiliate.
    The timeline Zwelling notes in his tweet would see Manoah returning in the middle of August, at best. Roughly two weeks following Major League Baseball's trade deadline. While he'll be a welcome addition if he can make it back to the big-league pitching staff, it would be irresponsible for the Blue Jays front office to approach the deadline thinking they can rely on Manoah's return. Not only has it been over a year since he's pitched in a game, but it's been considerably longer since he has shown to be a productive pitcher.
    How do you think Manoah's impending return will impact the Blue Jays trade deadline plans, if at all? Join the conversation in the comments!
     
    Matthew Lenz
    The Toronto Blue Jays are currently sitting two games ahead of the New York Yankees for the American League East division lead.
    Having not won the division since 1993, the Blue Jays front office is not going to let the opportunity pass them by. Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that "Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins also boldly stated that the Blue Jays will be ultra-aggressive at the trade deadline, seeking a starter and a catcher."
    The Blue Jays' starting rotation has been a blend of veteran consistency and new contributors. While established aces like José Berríos (3.53 ERA) and Kevin Gausman (4.13 ERA) have provided solid starts, Eric Lauer has emerged as a key addition, solidifying the rotation after being moved into a starting role. Chris Bassitt has posted a mixed year with a 4.16 ERA. Despite some concerns regarding the back end, the rotation has received a boost from Max Scherzer's return from injury. While the rotation has been solid, you can never have enough pitching - especially in the offense heavy AL East.

    The Blue Jays' catching tandem of Alejandro Kirk and Tyler Heineman has been a major strength. Kirk, in particular, is having an outstanding season, performing as one of the best catchers in MLB. He has displayed impressive offensive prowess and elite defensive metrics, including excellent pitch framing and blocking. The duo has combined for 11 Defensive Runs Saved, ranking among the top catching groups in the league, contributing significantly to the team's overall defensive strength. It's a bit of a surprise that Atkins would be looking to bolster that position group.

    What should be the Blue Jays priorities at the deadline? Join the conversation in the comments!
    Simon Li
    Right-hand reliever Ryan Burr pitched just two innings for the Jays' major league team before going back on the injured list. The righty didn't allow a run, struck out three batters, and sat 93.9 mph on his fastball during his short stint this season. Burr was projected to be one of the Jays' best relievers during preseason projections, and he also pitched to a 4.13 ERA/3.07 FIP in 2024 while accumulating 0.5 fWAR in 32 1/3 IP, so this is a blow to the depth charts for the Jays. Burr already went on the IL for a shoulder issue during spring training with shoulder tendinitis, so his going back on the IL for a right shoulder rotator cuff strain is also concerning.
    To replace him is 34-year-old right-hander Tommy Nance, who also pitched in the Jays' bullpen during the end of the season after being traded from the Padres for cash in a minor league trade. Nance pitched well enough, with a 4.09 ERA/3.98 FIP in 22 innings pitched, but was designated for assignment in spring training after not making the opening day roster. Nance has pitched 31 1/3 innings in Buffalo, where he has a 4.60 ERA, but a 2.63 FIP, striking out 31.3% of the batters he faced and only walking 5.2%. Nance will help shore up a bullpen that has had little rest recently, and with his two strong breaking balls, should be effective enough in middle relief. 
    Brock Beauchamp
    Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has earned yet another All‑Star starting nod as the American League’s first baseman, marking his fifth All‑Star selection and fourth time chosen as a starter, leading all AL first basemen in fan voting with just shy of 1.2 million votes. 
    Guerrero Jr. is hitting .278/.383/.446 with 12 home runs, 44 RBIs, and 54 runs scored across 85 games. Statcast metrics underline his elite contact: a 53.4% hard‑hit rate, .362 wOBA, and .415 xwOBA.
    Fresh off signing his new 14-year, $500 million contract in April, Guerrero Jr. will represent the Jays once again in the Midsummer Classic. The All-Star Game is scheduled on July 15 in Atlanta, Georgia.
    Matthew Lenz
    The Atlanta Braves are potential sellers at the upcoming trade deadline, though currently sit just six games back of a spot in the National League Wild Card race.
    Of the names that could be dealt, Buster Olney of ESPN is reporting that designated hitter Marcell Ozuna "is included in a lot of trade speculation". With Anthony Santander's slow start and injured shoulder, the Toronto Blue Jays could benefit from adding Ozuna to their lineup.
    Currently, outfielder George Springer has been manning DH in Santander's absence. He's been very productive at the plate with an .820 OPS and 11 home runs, resulting in a 131 wRC+. While he no longer grades out as a plus outfielder, he could move back to the grass and provide serviceable defense with his glove to make room for at-bats from Ozuna. However, this could create a bit of a logjam if Santander does return.
    Money and prospect capital could be another hindrance to acquiring Ozuna, who has a 126 wRC+ this season. The Blue Jays currently have the fourth highest payroll in baseball and are only $7.5 million under the CBT threshold. While Ozuna is set to be a free agent at seasons end, he would be owed a prorated amount of his $16 million 2025 salary. Moreover, the Blue Jays have a weak farm system limiting the caliber of player(s) they could add at the upcoming deadline.
    Do you think the Blue Jays should kick the tires on Ozuna? Join the conversation in the comments!
    Matthew Lenz
    The Toronto Blue Jays have acquired pitcher Robinson Piña of the Miami Marlins who will provide some depth - likely in a relief role, though he had the ability to start.
    Though he was recently DFA'd by the Marlins, Piña has been production as a starter for Triple-A Jacksonville. With the various injuries that have plagued the Blue Jays pitching staff, he'll be a versatile depth option when needed at the big-league level.
    In 13 appearances (11 starts), Piña has a 3.47 ERA, 3.73 FIP, and a 16% strikeout-minus-walk rate across 57 innings. Though he's been able to limit walks in 2025, command has traditionally been an issue for Piña capping his upside. If he can maintain that improvement, he could be a serviceable low- to medium- option out of the bullpen.
    This isn't a splashy move and the Blue Jays will need to bolster their 'pen for the playoff push. Who else should they target with trade deadline approaching? Join the conversation in the comments!
    Matthew Lenz
    Max Scherzer looked great in Wednesday's game at Triple-A Buffalo. Through 4 1/3 innings the Blue Jays starting pitcher struck out eight batters in 75 pitches, including striking out the side in the second inning.
    According to Keegan Matheson of MLB.com, "If he can still give the Blue Jays a thumbs up in the morning without wincing, he’s expected to make his next start in the big leagues..."
    It's a welcome sight for the Blue Jays who have dealt with a variety of injuries on their pitching staff.
    Scherzer looked great in his first two starts with the team before his thumb began giving him issues. 
    Matthew Lenz
    Earlier this week, the Milwaukee Brewers moved starter Aaron Civale to the bullpen in favor of top prospect Jacob Misiorowski.
    The move has prompted the 30-year-old right hander to request a trade from the Brewers in hopes of remaining a starter with another team, according to Ken, Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic.
    In five starts his season, Civale has a 4.29 ERA (4.30 FIP) and a mediocre 15.2% strikeout minus walk rate. He's been particularly susceptible to the long ball this season as he's given up five home runs across 22 innings pitched. Civale is making $8 million this season, which will be prorated based on his service time this season, and will be entering free agency at seasons end.
    He'd be a plenty serviceable arm for a Toronto Blue Jays rotation that has dealt with injuries this year, most notably to Max Scherzer.  For more information on Civale, check out this articles related to the news on our sister site, Brewer Fanatic.
    Do you think the Blue Jays should kick the tires on Civale? Join the conversation in the comments!
    Brock Beauchamp
    Blue Jays fans rejoice: oft-injured veteran starter Max Scherzer is throwing off a mound again and is well on the path to returning to a mound in Toronto.
    Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet reported that Scherzer threw roughly half a simulated start in his next step to return to the Blue Jays. Scherzer injured his thumb in his first and only start on March 29 of the season.
    The Jays could use Scherzer's help to stabilize their rotation. Bowden Francis has an 18.00 ERA over his last two starts, going only five innings with four home runs allowed and seven walks.
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