Key Takeaways:
– The San Francisco Giants might trade for Toronto Blue Jays’ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to replace outfielder Jung Hoo Lee, out for the season.
– The Giants propose trading infield prospect Bryce Eldridge and cash for Guerrero Jr.
– Guerrero Jr’s mixed track record and high salary could pose risks for the Giants.
– Blue Jays have shown willingness to trade Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette to retool their team.
Struggling San Francisco Giants Eyeing Trade for Guerrero Jr.
After a disappointing start to the MLB season with a string of losses, the San Francisco Giants are considering a potential trade to strengthen their batting order. Following the loss of their outfielder Jung Hoo Lee, who is out for the rest of the season, the Giants are rumored to be contemplating a trade proposal for Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The Giants’ Offseason Strategy Wanes
Despite spending over $211 million on recruiting top free agents in the recent offseason, the Giants are struggling in the highly competitive National League West. Their hopes for a strong season now hang precariously due to the out-of-form new additions and the unexpected loss of Jung Hoo Lee.
Toronto Blue Jays Open to Trading Guerrero Jr.
Reportedly, the Blue Jays are not averse to the idea of trading away both Guerrero Jr. and superstar Bo Bichette. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Blue Jays are considering trading these players to retool their struggling team.
While the Giants’ offer of Bryce Eldridge and cash might not satiate the Blue Jays’ high asking price, it’s possible Toronto’s stance could soften if trade discussions persist into the mid-season. According to rankings, Eldridge falls within the top-100 of all MLB prospects, which might entice the Blue Jays.
Mixed Trade Value for Guerrero Jr.
Despite being a three-time All-Star, a Silver Slugger in 2021, a Gold Glove Award winner in 2022, and receiving MVP Award votes in two seasons, Guerrero Jr’s market value is hard to gauge. The 6-season player with slash marks of .280/.356/.484, who currently earns $19.9 million before entering his final year of club control, is expected to seek a significant raise the following season.
However, the Blue Jays might be tentative to lock into a long-term commitment, especially considering Guerrero Jr.’s decreased performance this year with an .800 OPS and ranking 66th among all position players. The Giants, on the other hand, might want to negotiate a deal to help bolster their offense and attempt a stronger run in the league.
Conclusion
With the Giants looking to add a spark to their batting order, a trade for Guerrero Jr. could bolster their offense. However, the Blue Jays’ willingness to negotiate and Guerrero Jr.’s hit-or-miss track record coupled with his high salary could lead into a risky endeavor for the Giants. Only time will tell how this potential blockbuster trade pans out for both teams.