Blue Jays Trade Targets: Although it could be difficult, it might be worthwhile to acquire a former MVP.
Which former MVP would the Blue Jays try to sign to help with their roster in 2024?
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If that is the case, the Blue Jays should consider pursuing the former NL MVP. After all, the Jays did try once before back in 2018, but trade talks fell off because the Jays weren’t willing to move Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Yelich would be the ideal outfield replacement for Kiermaier for the Jays. The two-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger may not be putting up 35 home runs and 95 RBI per season like he did frequently during his dominant years, but moving forward, he could still easily provide 15-20 home runs and 60–80 RBI per season. What’s more, he still has the moves, as evidenced by his 28 steals in 31 attempts during the most recent season just two short of his career high of 30 in 2019.
Remember that Yelich is a former Gold Glove winner as well; even though he will be 32 by 2024, he would still be able to provide reliable outfield defense. Playing in left field, which is also his best position out of the three, he has a career.993 fielding percentage with 15 DRS over ten seasons. To make the most of his potential, Daulton Varsho would switch to center field if he were to sign with the Jays.
But given that the Jays would have to overcome a few challenges to make it happen, things could get tricky. Yelich’s contract is the largest obstacle in this case. It will be necessary for the Brewers to contribute to his salary in order to balance the books, as he has five years left on his current contract and an annual AAV of $26 million.
Yelich also has a complete no-trade clause, so he would have to consent to the trade. Yelich would definitely consider such a trade option to give himself all the opportunities he could get to win if the Brewers are truly looking at a rebuild and his chances of winning a World Series championship are dwindling year by year.