Danny Jansen, a free agent after this season, is on the trade block. The Chicago Cubs have now expressed interest in the catcher, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. It’s unclear how serious talks have been between both sides but it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Toronto Blue Jays part ways with him. The Blue Jays are 43-52 after they got blown out by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday evening. They sit 14 games out of the American League East and 9 1/2 games out of a postseason spot.
Danny Jansen Sparks Interest From Cubs
On the season, Jansen has a .223/.319/.397 batting average, six home runs, and 17 RBI. He was off the injured list to start the season after getting hit by a pitch, which resulted in a wrist fracture. Towards the end of last season, Jansen went on the IL with a fractured finger. He’s had some unlucky breaks when he was hit by pitches, which has impacted his game. But when Jansen is healthy, he can be productive. On May 20, Jansen had the highest OPS in the AL in 75 plate appearances (1.078). His success during that time moved him up in the lineup. The Cubs are desperately looking for solid back-catchers, so it’s no shock that they are eyeing Jansen. Miguel Amaya and Yan Gomes were underperforming before being replaced by Tomas Nido after his release from the New York Mets. Those inconsistencies make Jansen an obvious fit.
If the Cubs do end up buying, Jansen isn’t the only impending free agent on the Blue Jays who could be on the move. Yusei Kikuchi, Yimi Garcia, Trevor Richards and Justin Turner will generate interest from postseason-bound clubs. But no player’s roots run deeper than Jansen’s with the Blue Jays. Toronto selected him in the 16th round in 2013 as Jansen has spent 12 years with the club.
Main Photo: © Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
