As the MLB season progresses, teams are faced with tough decisions on whether to buy or sell players before the trade deadline. One team that is currently in this predicament is the Toronto Blue Jays. With their playoff odds dwindling, the Blue Jays must decide if it is in their best interest to sell off some of their key players in order to build for the future.
The Blue Jays currently sit at the bottom of the AL East standings with a record of 45-54, putting them 12 games back from the division-leading Boston Red Sox. Their playoff odds are slim, with Fangraphs giving them just a 3.1% chance of making the postseason. With these odds stacked against them, it may be in the Blue Jays’ best interest to start selling off some of their assets.
One player that has been at the center of trade rumors is pitcher Marcus Stroman. Stroman is having a solid season, with a 3.06 ERA and 1.25 WHIP through 20 starts. He is set to become a free agent after the 2020 season, making him an attractive trade target for contending teams looking to bolster their pitching staff for a playoff push.
Another player that could be on the move is closer Ken Giles. Giles has been lights out this season, posting a 1.45 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while converting 14 of 15 save opportunities. With many teams in need of bullpen help, Giles could fetch a solid return for the Blue Jays.
By selling off some of their key players, the Blue Jays could restock their farm system with top prospects and build for the future. This strategy has worked well for other teams in similar situations, such as the Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs, who both went through rebuilding phases before becoming World Series champions.
However, there is always a risk involved in selling off key players. The Blue Jays run the risk of alienating their fan base and losing revenue if they decide to go into full rebuild mode. Additionally, there is no guarantee that the prospects they receive in return will pan out at the major league level.
Ultimately, the decision to sell will come down to the Blue Jays’ front office and their long-term vision for the franchise. While it may be tough to part ways with fan-favorite players, it may be necessary in order to build a sustainable contender for years to come. Only time will tell what path the Blue Jays choose to take as the trade deadline approaches.