Blue Jays’ starting pitchers could interest the Braves…
Over the last several weeks, I’ve covered numerous potential trade targets for the Braves from various teams. With the trade deadline approaching, it’s becoming clearer which teams might be sellers, but there are still a few more to consider. Today, we’ll revisit the Toronto Blue Jays. Recently, I discussed some of their shortstops that could be upgrades over Orlando Arcia. Now, let’s focus on their starting pitchers. Sitting 16.0 games back in the AL East and in last place, Toronto may need to consider trading their valuable arms.
If you missed any of the previous parts of this series, follow the links below:
- Braves trade targets from Athletics
- Braves trade targets from Angels
- Braves trade targets from Rockies
- Braves trade targets from White Sox
- Braves trade targets from Mets
- Braves trade targets from Marlins
- Braves trade targets from Red Sox
- Braves trade targets from Tigers
- Braves trade targets from Blue Jays: Shortstops
Kevin Gausman
In 2018, Alex Anthopoulos acquired Kevin Gausman from the Baltimore Orioles. Gausman posted a 2.87 ERA over his final 10 starts that season with the Braves, but struggled in 2019 and was eventually designated for assignment. After signing with the Giants, Gausman’s career took off. In 2021, he was an NL All-Star and finished sixth in the Cy Young race, leading to a lucrative contract with the Blue Jays. While he excelled in his first two seasons in Toronto, finishing third in the AL Cy Young race last year, 2024 has been less productive with a 4.64 ERA over 18 starts. His 3.86 FIP suggests potential improvement, but Gausman, now in his mid-30s, carries a risky contract with $23 million owed in 2025 and 2026.
Jose Berrios
The Braves might consider acquiring a starter under contract for multiple years, given Max Fried’s impending free agency and Charlie Morton’s potential retirement. Jose Berrios fits this mold, with a contract through 2026 and an option for 2027 and 2028. Berrios is owed $18.7 million per season for 2025 and 2026, a reasonable amount comparable to what the Braves have paid Morton. However, the potential $25 million per year for Berrios in his mid-30s could be concerning.
Yusei Kikuchi
For a shorter-term solution, Yusei Kikuchi could be a target. In the final year of his contract, Kikuchi has posted a 4.12 ERA, 3.64 FIP, and 9.4 K/9 over 18 starts. As a rental, he would be a desirable option if the Blue Jays make him available.
Chris Bassitt
Of all the Blue Jays’ pitchers, Chris Bassitt is the most intriguing. A reliable workhorse, Bassitt has made at least 25 starts in every season since 2019, excluding the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign. With three top ten finishes in the AL Cy Young race, including last season’s 16-8 record and 3.60 ERA over 200 innings, Bassitt remains productive at 35 years old. This season, he boasts a 3.43 ERA with over 100 innings pitched. His contract, with one more season at $22 million, is manageable and could be appealing to the Braves.
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