Blue Jays 'willing' to trade All-Star who makes perfect sense for Braves

Patrick McAvoy

Blue Jays 'willing' to trade All-Star who makes perfect sense for Braves image

It sounds like the Toronto Blue Jays will be making multiple trades with the deadline approaching.

Toronto has struggled so far this season and seems to be nearing a rebuild. The Blue Jays reportedly are "willing" to move players heading toward free agency with All-Star hurler Yusei Kikuchi being an option, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.

"The Blue Jays' impending free agents include infielder/DH Justin Turner ($13 million salary in 2024), outfielder Kevin Kiermaier ($10.5 million), left-handed starter Yusei Kikuchi ($10 million), righty relievers Yimi García ($6 million) and Trevor Richards ($2.15 million) and catcher Danny Jansen ($5.2 million)," Feinsand said. "According to sources, the Blue Jays have told other clubs that they are willing to move players with expiring contracts, but those with control beyond 2024 are not being traded.

"The consensus among a dozen executives we spoke with is that the Blue Jays will attempt to move most or all of their rental players if they sell, working to add some prospects to a farm system that entered the season ranked at No. 24 by MLB Pipeline."

Kikuchi would be a great option for the Atlanta Braves at the deadline. Atlanta is expected to be active this summer and is looking for help for the starting rotation. Kikuchi has a 4.00 ERA in 19 starts so far this season and would go a long way in boosting the Braves' rotation.

Atlanta is in a good spot right now but adding to the rotation will help take it to another level. Keep an eye on Kikuchi.

More MLB: Braves linked to resurgent ace as possible major starting rotation upgrade

Patrick McAvoy

Patrick McAvoy Photo

Patrick McAvoy's experiences include local and national sportswriting across baseball, football and basketball. He has provided coverage for the Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, New York Mets, Philadelphia Eagles and Boston Celtics throughout his career. 

Outside of journalism, Patrick also has received a Masters of Business Administration Degree from Brandeis University and studied communication and business at Merrimack College where he earned his Bachelor's Degree.