The Toronto Blue Jays are hot right now, winning three games in a row and seven of their last 10.
Toronto opened the second half by sweeping the tough San Francisco Giants. They lead the New York Yankees by three games for first place in the American League East.
The Blue Jays have a solid team, but they could use a couple of upgrades just like all the other playoff contenders.
Toronto could benefit from a second baseman or an outfield acquisition, but its becoming more likely that the team will pursue pitching at the trade deadline.
Staff members of The Athletic made bold predictions about all 30 teams, with Toronto predicted to target pitching instead of offense.
“At the start of July, Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins identified a right-handed bat as one of Toronto’s deadline priorities,” wrote Mitch Bannon. “Since then, Davis Schneider has a .954 OPS with four homers in July.
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“At the same time, three Blue Jays relievers have gone on the injured list this month, exacerbating a clear need to add pitching. Atkins will go all in on pitching at the deadline, trusting Schneider to fill the righty role.”
Schneider, 26, has been used in limited capacity this season but has put together a solid last two months.
The left fielder has five home runs and 11 RBI while slashing .218/.358/.436 in 35 games.
Expect the Blue Jays to be aggressive at the deadline as they seek their first AL East title since 2015.
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