The Toronto Blue Jays are in a tough spot two months into the season, sitting in third place in the American League East with a record of 26-28.
Toronto is eight games back of the New York Yankees, but only one game behind the Tampa Bay Rays and three games back of the third AL wild card spot.
Starting pitching has been a concern, ranking 25th in Major League Baseball in starting pitching ERA at 4.35. Two starters have been good for the Blue Jays, but one of them could be on the move if the team doesn’t improve soon.
Veteran right-hander Chris Bassitt may be one of the top trade chips at the trade deadline, according to Zachary Rotman of FanSided.
“With most of the league needing starting pitching help, Bassitt, as potentially the best pitcher on the market, should be able to net Toronto an excellent return,” Rotman wrote.
Bassitt is one of three players listed by Rotman who could be on the move if Toronto stays at or below .500 ahead of the trade deadline.
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Bassitt, 36, is having a great season despite a rocky May. The funky righty is 4-3 with a 3.38 ERA in 11 starts this season and is tied for 26th in strikeouts with 63. His 1.32 WHIP is a little high, but he has only walked 13 batters in 61.1 innings.
With how valued starting pitchers are, there will be a lot of interest in Bassitt come July. He is a good veteran presence and contenders will be calling Toronto if he continues to succeed down the stretch.
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