With the Toronto Blue Jays now 10 games below .500, it’s become more apparent that they could trade one of their starters. While pitcher Yusei Kikuchi has already been brought up as a prime trade candidate, pitcher Chris Bassitt’s name has also come up.
Most of the following 16 players will be on the move later this month …who will land where?
-Garrett Crochet
-Jack Flaherty
-Chris Bassitt
-Elias Diaz
-Zach Elgin
-Paul Decking
-Jesse Winker
-Kirby Yates
-Brendan Rodgers
-Carlos Estevez
-Trevor Richards
-Justin Turner
-Randy…— Bobby Sheridan TSR Sports ⚾️🏈🏀🎾⛳️ (@SheridanReport) July 5, 2024
Blue Jays Starter Could Be On The Move
Trade Rumors With Bassitt
There have been talks about the Cleveland Guardians’ interest in the 35-year-old right-handed pitcher. The Guardians want to ramp up their starting rotation to complement their strong bullpen. Bassitt is a prime trade candidate as his contract extends into the 2025 season. Furthermore, pitchers with these types of contracts appeal the most to teams needing starters. In return from the Guardians, the Blue Jays could receive their 10th-ranked prospect, left-handed pitcher Joey Cantillo, and infielder Jose Tena. There have also been rumors that Bassitt could reunite with his former team, the New York Mets. Aside from pitcher Jose Berrios, Bassitt has been one of the Blue Jays’ most consistent starters. His most impressive outing was on June 29th against the New York Yankees when Aaron Judge hit Bassitt with a line drive. Bassitt stayed in the game and put out quite a performance.
Bassit’s Success
Bassitt has always been the pitcher who works hard and has helped the Blue Jays win games. He’s also shown success against the Yankees, so it came as no surprise with his strong outing against them. The Blue Jays beat the Bronx Bombers 9-3, and Bassitt gave up one walk, six hits, no earned runs, and one run and struck out eight. Even looking at last season, Bassitt was a workhorse and has always been a reliable pitcher who pitches deep into games. But the question remains: Should Bassitt stay or go? Overall, it’s a move that makes sense. This is because he has much to offer, and the Blue Jays need to make a fresh start.
The Blue Jays look more like sellers at this point in the season, as they have now lost three games in a row. Yesterday’s game against the Seattle Mariners was another tough loss. Pitcher Kevin Gausman recorded 10 strikeouts, but the Blue Jays fell short with a 2-1 loss. This is also the second time Gausman has recorded double-digit strikeouts this season.
Main Photo Credits: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
