MLB trade rumors: Reds sending Jay Bruce to Toronto Blue Jays?
By Jason Evans
Is Jay Bruce on his way to Toronto?
The Toronto Blue Jays led the MLB in runs, doubles,home runs and OPS last season, and it looks like they are about to add to their offensive attack. According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman and Ken Rosenthal, Jay Bruce may be heading north of the border as the Cincinnati Reds’ rebuild continues.
Hearing proposed deal Is 3-way. Bruce would go to Jays, Michael Saunders to angels
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 23, 2016
Source: #BlueJays are NOT on Bruce’s most recent no-trade list. Can be sent to TOR without his approval.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) February 23, 2016
Bruce would give the Blue Jays a left handed presence in the middle of the lineup that is dominated by right-handed hitters in Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion and reigning MVP Josh Donaldson. He had a sub-par season last year, posting a .226 average with a .729 OPS. However, the Reds outfielder did hit 26 homers last season.
This year, Bruce is set to make $12.5 million before entering free agency.
Michael Saunders was limited to just nine games last season due to a knee injury. Saunders is due to make $2.9 million next season and also enter free agency. He would play left field for the Angels, a spot currently held by a platoon of Craig Gentry and Daniel Nava.
No word yet on what pieces are supposed to go to the Reds.
This move shows even more how the Blue Jays are all in for 2016. Bautista, Bruce and Encarnacion are all set to be free agents. The AL is wide open and after the Blue Jays got a taste of postseason for the first time since the 1990’s there’s no reason why they shouldn’t go for it.