The Toronto Blue Jays’ 2016 postseason run may have ended in a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Dodgers, but as time has passed, it’s clear that their season was not in vain. With a talented and dynamic roster, the Blue Jays once again proved themselves as a team to be reckoned with in the highly competitive world of Major League Baseball.
Now, as the 2017 season approaches, the Blue Jays must face the difficult task of evaluating their current roster and making strategic decisions for the future. One of the biggest decisions facing them is whether or not to engage in trade talks with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
As the dust settles from their intense postseason matchup, many Blue Jays fans may still feel a bit hesitant about doing business with the Dodgers. After all, it was the Dodgers who ripped the hearts out of Toronto fans with their 5-0 victory in the decisive game five of the National League Championship Series. But, despite the lingering sting of defeat, the Blue Jays must put their emotions aside and carefully consider the potential benefits of a trade with the Dodgers.
One of the strongest arguments for a Blue Jays-Dodgers trade is the possibility of sending a versatile starter to Los Angeles. With the Dodgers in need of pitching depth, the Blue Jays could potentially offer a player like Marco Estrada, who has proven himself as a reliable starter with an impressive 3.48 ERA in the 2016 season. Estrada’s ability to pitch effectively in high-pressure situations would be a valuable asset for the Dodgers, and in return, the Blue Jays could receive a valuable piece for their own roster.
Another potential trade option could involve sending outfielder Jose Bautista to the Dodgers. While Bautista’s performance in the 2016 season was hindered by injuries, he still remains a powerful force at the plate and a strong defensive presence in the outfield. With the Dodgers in need of a right-handed power hitter, Bautista could be an attractive acquisition. However, it remains to be seen if the Blue Jays are willing to part ways with their beloved slugger.
Of course, any potential trade with the Dodgers would also require a fair trade-off for the Blue Jays. One potential option could be receiving dynamic young outfielder Yasiel Puig from the Dodgers. Known for his strong arm and impressive power at the plate, Puig could provide a much-needed boost to the Blue Jays’ outfield and add depth to their lineup.
But why should the Blue Jays even consider trading with the team that broke their hearts? Because ultimately, a successful trade with the Dodgers could benefit both teams and improve the overall competitiveness of the league. Despite their disappointment in the 2016 postseason, the Blue Jays remain a strong and formidable team, and a trade with the Dodgers could only strengthen their chances of returning to the playoffs in the upcoming season.
Furthermore, with the 2018 season looming and key players like Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion potentially becoming free agents, the Blue Jays must make strategic decisions regarding their roster. A trade with the Dodgers could provide them with the necessary pieces to remain a top contender in the American League.
Ultimately, whether or not the Toronto Blue Jays choose to engage in trade talks with the Los Angeles Dodgers remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the Blue Jays must put aside any lingering bitterness and make decisions that will benefit their team in the long run. As we eagerly wait for the 2017 MLB season to kick off, one thing is for sure: the Toronto Blue Jays will be a strong and formidable team, no matter what decisions they make regarding potential trades.
