Blue Jays Explore Trade Options, Eye Ketel Marte Amid High Demands

ORLANDO, Fla – The Toronto Blue Jays are actively engaging with top free agents such as Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette, while also exploring potential trades. One prominent candidate under consideration is Ketel Marte, the second baseman for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Despite his availability, the asking price for Marte appears to be exceptionally high, complicating the Blue Jays’ pursuit.

Multiple teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Seattle Mariners, Pittsburgh Pirates, Tampa Bay Rays, and the Blue Jays have shown interest in Marte. However, the early discussions at the Winter Meetings suggest that Toronto’s involvement may be more about due diligence rather than a serious pursuit.

High Stakes for Marte

The Diamondbacks are reportedly seeking MLB-ready starting pitching in any trade deal involving Marte. Given this requirement, it is likely that Trey Yesavage or Ricky Tiedemann would be discussed. However, Blue Jays General Manager Ross Atkins may not be inclined to part with key pitching assets, especially after spending the initial stages of the offseason building pitching depth.

The question arises as to why a team looking to contend would be willing to trade a player who is both productive and affordable. Marte, who has averaged 5.4 wins above replacement per season since 2023, missed some time last summer on the restricted list, prompting him to address his teammates. Although manager Torey Lovullo later expressed pride in Marte’s return, the incident raised some eyebrows about his stability within the team.

While interest in Marte is palpable, the reality is that the Blue Jays are likely on the fringes of these discussions, rather than at the centre of them.

Winter Meetings Yield Mixed Results

The first day of the Winter Meetings did not yield substantial transactions, with Steven Matz being one of the few players to agree to terms, signing with the Rays. Although one phone call can quickly change the landscape, it may require additional patience for teams seeking to land top free agents like Tucker and Bichette.

Tucker has yet to finalize his meetings with various teams and does not appear close to signing, according to insiders. On the other hand, Bichette’s market is described as strong, with the Blue Jays among several teams vying for his services. It is feasible that resolutions for both players may still be weeks away, which would necessitate a measured approach from the Blue Jays.

Toronto is in a favorable position, willing to invest while many teams are hesitant. This financial readiness makes the Blue Jays a formidable player in the market for any desired talent, regardless of timing. With crucial additions already made to their pitching roster, the Blue Jays can afford to be patient and opportunistic as they look to enhance their lineup before the start of spring training.

As the Winter Meetings progress, the situation remains dynamic, with various possibilities still on the table. Options such as re-signing left-hander Tim Mayza could also be explored, potentially on a minor-league deal. Additionally, while there is interest in Alex Bregman, he seems more likely to end up with the Red Sox rather than the Blue Jays.

Overall, the coming weeks will be critical for the Blue Jays as they navigate the trade and free-agent markets, seeking to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.