The Toronto Blue Jays are heating up at just the right time. After a rocky start to the season, they’ve surged into the first AL Wild Card spot, winning 13 of their last 15 games and closing the gap on the division-leading Yankees to just four games.
This turnaround has been powered by a red-hot offense averaging 5.9 runs per game during that stretch, including six blowouts with eight or more runs.
However, not everything is clicking. The pitching rotation has shown cracks, especially with Bowden Francis. The 29-year-old right-hander hasn’t come close to replicating his breakout 2024 campaign, struggling to a 6.12 ERA and leading the American League in losses (8) — including both of the Jays’ recent defeats.
Meanwhile, the fifth rotation spot has become a revolving door, with unsteady outings from Paxton Shultz, Easton Lucas, Eric Lauer, and José Ureña. Even with Max Scherzer inching closer to a return, banking on a 40-year-old who’s made just 10 starts in two seasons is risky.
That’s why, according to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, Toronto’s front office has made one thing clear:
“The Blue Jays have made acquiring a starting pitcher their priority at this deadline.”
Bowden links Toronto to potential trades with the Arizona Diamondbacks for either Zac Gallen or Merrill Kelly — should Arizona decide to sell — or with the Angels for veteran lefty Tyler Anderson.
Gallen and Kelly both offer veteran pedigree and playoff experience, while Anderson’s 3.86 ERA since 2024 would make him a reliable left-handed complement to the Jays’ righty-heavy staff of Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, and José Berríos.
With their October hopes looking realistic, the Blue Jays seem ready to go all-in — but will the market cooperate?
🗳️ POLL: What Should Be the Blue Jays’ Top Trade Deadline Priority?
Cast your vote below and join the conversation!
- 🔁 Trade for a Top Starting Pitcher (e.g. Gallen, Kelly, Anderson)
- 🛡️ Bolster the Bullpen
- 💥 Add Another Bat to the Lineup
- 🧠 Stand Pat – Trust the Current Roster
👇 Vote and tell us why in the comments!
Discover more from VIEWINFOR
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
