As the trade deadline is fast approaching, the Toronto Blue Jays are looking to trade veterans to help their rebuild. Looking at the veterans on the team, there are a few that have value to move within the next couple of days. One of those veterans that could be moved is Eric Sogard.
After having a rough 2018, the Blue Jays signed Sogard to a minor league contract for the 2019 season. After a surprising run in Triple A, Sogard came up to the Blue Jays and has done well to the surprise of many. Sogard in his 33-year-old season has a .299 BA with ten home runs and 30 RBI making this his best season so far. Assuming this is the best he gets, now would be the time to trade him.
The Appeal
What appeals most to Sogard’s trade value is that he is the ultimate utility player. This season, Sogard has played five different defensive positions. As second base is his original position, Sogard can also play shortstop, third base, left field and right field. Looking at the National League, style of game utility players are always in demand. Not to mention, one of the best utility players in the game in Eric Sogard. So long as there is no Designated Hitter in the National League, his value to a contender could help.
Blue Jays Trade History
Looking at the Blue Jays trade deadline history, a move like this would be something that would make sense. In fact one of the last few deals the Blue Jays made was for the same calibre player in Aledmys Diaz for a young Trent Thornton. As the Blue Jays continue to go younger, if they were to trade Sogard, it would be for a Triple-A prospect struggling to make their team’s line up.
Potential Trade Partners
Looking at some of the National League contenders, there are a few teams where he would be a good fit. For example, if the Atlanta Braves were to acquire him, he would be an upgrade at left and right field. In return the Blue Jays could receive Braves pitching prospect Kyle Wright and a bat from Gwinnett. For the Chicago Cubs, they are in need of a second basemen if they wish to go far in October. A possible trade proposal could be Eric Sogard and Teoscar Hernandez for Albert Almora and Ian Happ.
For the Los Angeles Dodgers, Eric Sogard would be an upgrade at shortstop from Corey Seager this season. In return the Blue Jays could get starter Ross Stripling, who has been in and out of the Dodgers rotation. Perhaps he could be the one thing to push the Dodgers to that World Series title. Finally, the Washington Nationals are in need of a better right fielder, which could be solved by acquiring Eric Sogard.
Final Thoughts
There is always the option for the Blue Jays to keep Sogard and have him keep up that mentor role to the young players for the next couple seasons. Although at 33, he should have a desire to contend and be a part of a winning roster. The Blue Jays have done a great job working with him this season, and proud of his development. If he were to move in the next few days, it would hurt but he is giving way for a better future in Toronto.
Main Photo: Embed from Getty Images
