Blue Jays-Astros trade pitch sends $115M World Series champion, Silver Slugger to Toronto

The Toronto Blue Jays are coming off a World Series appearance last October, falling just one win short against the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, they now hold a losing record and are looking to turn things around. At one point this offseason, it appeared the Blue Jays were in position to sign Kyle Tucker.

“The Blue Jays might just be getting started. Kyle Tucker, the top player in this winter’s free-agent class, visited with the Blue Jays at their player development complex in Dunedin, Fla., on Wednesday, a source told MLB.com,” MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson wrote.

In the end, Tucker chose to sign with the Dodgers, a decision that stung the entire Blue Jays organization. Losing him in free agency is one thing, but it’s even tougher when he joins the same team that just defeated Toronto in the World Series. Tucker later explained his decision.

“I was just trying to make the most of the rest of my career,” Tucker said. “You don’t play this game forever, so I was trying to make the most out of it wherever I felt the best landing spot was for me and my family. That was California.”

With Toronto missing out on Tucker, the outfield has struggled at times this season. As a result, the Blue Jays could explore a trade for Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros.

“The Blue Jays are never afraid to go on the hunt for big-name talent. Toronto tried to lure Shohei Ohtani and Kyle Tucker to town but struck out on both. The Blue Jays also let Bo Bichette walk in free agency. If the Astros were to dangle Álvarez in trade talks, it would be a shock if the Blue Jays weren't involved,” SI’s Patrick McAvoy wrote.

Adding a player like Alvarez would be a major boost, as he provides the kind of left-handed power bat every lineup covets. He is also a World Series champion, bringing valuable postseason experience.

Alvarez is currently on a $115 million deal with Houston, meaning he would be a long-term addition in Toronto. A move like that could provide the spark the Blue Jays need to get back on track.

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