The Toronto Blue Jays have traded Isiah Kiner-Falefa to the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team announced Tuesday.
The Blue Jays will receive double-A infielder Charles McAdoo in return.
McAdoo, 22, was ranked as Pittsburgh’s No. 12 prospect in a mid-season update by Baseball America. He has slashed .315/.394/.538 with 14 home runs and 17 stolen bases over 87 games between high-A and double-A this season.
Selected in the 13th round of the 2023 draft by the Pirates, McAdoo has spent time at first base, second base, third base and right field in 2024.
McAdoo swings and throws right-handed, and attended San Jose State University.
Kiner-Falefa has been on the injured list due to a knee injury since June 30.
The 29-year-old signed a two-year, $15-million contract with Toronto in the off-season and has proceeded to put together a career-best year with his new club.
Over 83 games with the Blue Jays, Kiner-Falefa slashed .292/.338/.420 with seven home runs. Kiner-Falefa had never posted an OPS north of .700 in his MLB career before arriving in Toronto.
In a surprising move, the Toronto Blue Jays have traded infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The trade, which was announced earlier today, comes as a bit of a shock to Blue Jays fans who have grown accustomed to seeing Kiner-Falefa in the team’s lineup.
Kiner-Falefa, who was acquired by the Blue Jays in a trade with the Texas Rangers last season, had quickly become a fan favorite in Toronto. Known for his versatility and strong defensive skills, Kiner-Falefa was a key contributor to the Blue Jays’ success last season.
However, it seems that the Blue Jays have decided to part ways with Kiner-Falefa in order to address other needs on their roster. In exchange for the infielder, the Blue Jays will receive a package of prospects from the Pirates, including a promising young pitcher and a highly touted outfielder.
While it’s always tough to see a beloved player traded away, this move could ultimately benefit the Blue Jays in the long run. By acquiring young talent in exchange for Kiner-Falefa, the team is positioning themselves for future success and building for the future.
As for Kiner-Falefa, he will now have the opportunity to make an impact with the Pirates and continue to showcase his skills on a new team. While it may be bittersweet for Blue Jays fans to see him go, they can take comfort in knowing that the team is making moves to improve and compete at a high level in the coming seasons.
Overall, this trade represents a strategic move by the Blue Jays to strengthen their roster and build for the future. While it may be tough to say goodbye to Kiner-Falefa, fans can look forward to seeing how the team continues to evolve and compete in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.