Blue Jays Make Major Trades at Deadline
The Toronto Blue Jays made significant moves on MLB trade deadline day, acquiring right-handed pitcher Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians.
Cleveland received Khal Stephen, a 22-year-old minor-league pitcher ranked as Toronto’s No. 5 prospect by MLB Pipeline.
Toronto also added Louis Varland, a right-handed pitcher, and first baseman Ty France from the Minnesota Twins, along with catching prospect Brandon Valenzuela from the San Diego Padres.
In return, the Blue Jays sent outfielder Alan Roden and left-handed pitcher Kendry Rojas to the Twins and traded infielder Will Wagner to the Padres.
At 30 years old, Bieber is approaching a comeback from Tommy John surgery and has yet to pitch in the majors this season. He has posted a 1.59 ERA and a 0.71 WHIP during four rehab outings.
Throughout his career with Cleveland, since being drafted in 2016, Bieber has accumulated a 62-32 record with a 3.22 ERA over 136 games. He is a two-time All-Star and the 2020 Cy Young Award winner.
In a related move, the Jays added reliever Seranthony Dominguez from the Baltimore Orioles. Varland has a 2.02 ERA in 51 games this season, while France has a .251 batting average with 19 doubles and six home runs.
Padres Enhance Pitching Staff
In another key trade, the San Diego Padres acquired closer Mason Miller and left-hander JP Sears from the Athletics, sending a notable package of prospects in exchange.
General manager AJ Preller was proactive at the deadline, enhancing the pitching staff in a bid for the postseason. Miller boasts a fastball averaging 101 mph and an impressive track record this year.
Correa Returns to Houston
Carlos Correa is back with the Houston Astros after being traded from the Minnesota Twins, marking a significant reunion for the team as they enhance their roster for the stretch run.
Yankees Fortify Bullpen
The New York Yankees acquired two-time All-Star closer David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates ahead of the trade deadline, aiming to strengthen their bullpen.
Mets Boost Offense with Mullins
The New York Mets traded for Cedric Mullins from the Baltimore Orioles, enhancing their offense with a player who has shown recent improvement at the plate.
Tigers Upgrade Relief Corps
The Detroit Tigers acquired Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals, while also adding Paul Sewald, as they aim to enhance their chances for a World Series title.
Phillies Acquire Bader
The Philadelphia Phillies completed a trade for outfielder Harrison Bader, looking to boost their lineup with a dependable defender and experienced postseason player.
