Blue Jays: 3 trade candidates from potential surprise sellers

By Tim Boyle | Jul 16, 2022

TORONTO, ON - JULY 14: Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider stands on the mound during a pitching change against the Kansas City Royals in the eighth inning during their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on July 14, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) /

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JUNE 23: Joc Pederson #23 of the San Francisco Giants hits a solo homer in the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on June 23, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

2. Blue Jays trade target from a surprise seller: Joc Pederson

The Blue Jays could really use a left-handed bat in the lineup. It has been a known need all season. Raimel Tapia is the only lefty swinger with over 200 plate appearances. Most likely in the DH spot, the Blue Jays need to find someone to hit from the left side to offer a little more balance. Wouldn’t you know, the Giants might have the perfect target with Joc Pederson.

Pederson has become a coveted trade candidate ever since it looked like San Francisco wasn’t going to be quite as much of a threat as they did earlier this year. While still alive in the wild card hunt, it’s that or nothing for them this season.

Pederson signed only a one-year contract with the Giants this offseason which makes him a natural trade deadline piece to flip. The Blue Jays, in their pursuit of not wasting away all of their young talent, should be in on him. While a blockbuster deal for him and Rodon might be too much to ask for, at least swiping one of the league’s top power hitters this season would be a huge victory.

As much of a threat as the Blue Jays are at scoring double-digit runs, they aren’t quite as good at accomplishing this mission in 2022. A powerful bat like Pederson’s would only improve them.

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