Toronto Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance at the trade deadline, stating that they were able to keep up with, and possibly surpass, their American League East rivals. The Blue Jays acquired shortstop Paul DeJong from the St. Louis Cardinals in a trade just hours before the deadline, marking their third deal with the Cardinals in the last two weeks. Toronto also added relievers Jordan Hicks and Genesis Cabrera in previous trades with the Cardinals.
After the deadline had passed, Atkins spoke to the media and pointed out that divisional rivals like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Baltimore Orioles did not make the high-profile trades they usually do. Atkins believes this is a reflection of the strength of the AL East teams, as many focused on acquiring depth to protect their current roster.
The Blue Jays’ plan was also centered around acquiring depth, with DeJong being a pressing need due to an injury to their star shortstop Bo Bichette. Bichette leads the team with a .321 average and 17 home runs this season, making his absence significant. However, an MRI revealed no significant structural damage to Bichette’s knee, and the team is optimistic about his return. DeJong brings his own offensive capabilities, with 13 home runs, 32 RBIs, and a .233 batting average this season.
Atkins acknowledged that this year’s trade market was different, with many speculated players not being as available. Consequently, the deals available to the Blue Jays were smaller in nature and focused more on roster management. Despite the changing market, Atkins is confident in the team’s acquisitions and believes their depth is strong, especially with the impending return of injured players like relief pitcher Chad Green and the first start of the season for Hyun Jin Ryu after recovering from Tommy John surgery.
In terms of roster moves, outfielder Jordan Luplow was designated for assignment to make room for DeJong on the 40-man roster. Left-handed pitcher Hyun Jin Ryu was reinstated from the injured list, while right-handed reliever Bowden Francis was optioned to the team’s triple-A affiliate. Infielders Ernie Clement and Otto Lopez were also recalled from triple-A Buffalo, although Lopez was placed on the injured list with a left oblique strain.
Overall, the Blue Jays are optimistic about their roster and believe they have made strategic moves to improve their team at the trade deadline. Atkins is pleased with the acquisitions and feels that they have positioned themselves well for success in the AL East.
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