The Toronto Blue Jays are playing better as of late and are currently a Wild Card team in the American League. They are just four games out of the American League East lead.
If their recent efforts continue through June, the Blue Jays may actually end up being buyers when the trade deadline gets closer. If that is the case, they may be able to land a player who is more than just a rental. The Blue Jays have shown in the last two offseasons that they struggle bringing stars to Toronto. However, they may be able to do so using the trade market.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale recently revealed that the Pirates are listening to offers on all of their players except Paul Skenes and Oneil Cruz. That means Bryan Reynolds could be available, and BALLCAP Sports’ Jim Riley tabbed him as a fit for the Blue Jays.
“I think the best thing for them to do is grab a player that helps them this year and beyond,” said Riley. “I want multiple years of control. I don’t want a rental here, and I’m thinking about the outfield. (George) Springer is a free agent after next year. (Daulton) Varsho is a free agent after next year and keeps getting hurt. (Nathan) Lukes can’t play like this forever, (Alan) Roden is still trying to figure it out, and who knows if he ever does, so how about we go grab a player with multiple years of control that (Jeff) Passan has identified as could be available. What about Brian Reynolds? Brian Reynolds is so much better than what he’s been to this point in 2025. I think a change of scenery and a level of competition, going for a wildcard spot. To start playing meaningful games would do him good.”
Reynolds is a two-time All-Star and signed an eight-year, $106 million deal in 2023. He is a career .273 hitter with an .812 OPS. However, this season he has struggled. He has a .238 average and a .696 OPS. He is starting to heat up, hitting .338 with three home runs, 19 RBIs and an OPS of .981 in his last 21 games.
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The Blue Jays have Vladimir Guerrero Jr. locked up for the next 14 years. Adding Reynolds for the next few seasons would help them compete year in and year out. His defense is not up to the Blue Jays’ standards, but they may be willing to overlook that if it means improving their offense.
“Reynolds is locked in through the 2030 season at about 15 million a year,” said Riley. “Maybe you can even get the Pirates to eat some of that money to improve the prospect headed back, or they don’t, and Reynolds doesn’t cost much in prospect capital.”
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