Key Takeaways:
– The Toronto Blue Jays might trade former All-MLB pitcher Alek Manoah for Jazz Chisholm Jr of the Miami Marlins.
– Chisholm Jr would likely play at second base, filling in for underperforming Craig Biggio.
– The proposed trade also includes shortstop prospect Arjun Nimmala and infield/outfield prospect Addison Barger
– MLB insider Ken Rosenthal suggests that the Blue Jays are at a crossroads, needing to improve their performance or make tough decisions.
Exploring Potential Trading Options
The Miami Marlins are reportedly open to offers for Jazz Chisholm Jr, thus creating an opportunity for the Toronto Blue Jays to acquire a left-handed hitter. This follows a failed attempt to sign Shohei Ohtani in the off-season. Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report speculates that the Blue Jays could offer former All-MLB first team pitcher Alek Manoah, alongside shortstop prospect Arjun Nimmala and infield/outfield prospect Addison Barger in exchange for Chisholm.
While Chisholm would not be a direct replacement for centrfielder Daulton Varsho, his talents would be beneficial at second base, potentially replacing Craig Biggio. Rymer points out that Chisholm’s energy and charisma could give the Blue Jays a much-needed boost both on and off the field.
A New Home for Manoah?
Alek Manoah, despite struggles this season and last, would be a significant part of the proposed Blue Jays’ trade package. After a promising start to his career with rookie of the year votes in 2021 and an All-Star bid, Cy Young votes, and MVP votes in 2022, his performances took a downturn due to shoulder soreness in 2023, resulting in a 5.87 ERA in 19 starts. His 2024 season has not started much better, recording a 13.50 ERA in brief play.
Rymer believes that Manoah, originating from Homestead which is not far from Miami, could benefit from a homecoming and change of scenery. However, the Marlins would inherit a project that currently fairs poorly on the pitch.
Other Prospects Involved
The trade package wouldn’t end with Manoah. Shortstop prospect Arjun Nimmala, a former first-round pick with plus-power potential, and Addison Barger, who can play in outfield and infield with a great arm, are included. Both have huge potential but are not considered can’t-miss types.
However, Rymer argues that the Marlins would likely seek a more promising player such as left-handed Ricky Tiedemann or infielder Orelvis Martines, although it’s unclear if Toronto would be willing to part with either player.
Potential Challenges and the Future
Chisholm has so far fallen short of expectations this season, posting .243/.322/.412 in 136 at bats, a slight downgrade from his career averages. However, his energy and charisma may serve as a revitalizing factor for the Blue Jays’ lineup.
Ultimately, the decision lies with the Blue Jays’ front office, who need to decide how to navigate through a subpar season. MLB insider Ken Rosenthal suggests that they are at a crossroads. He notes, “At some point, this team either needs to play better or needs to make some hard decisions on the players that they have.”