While most experts expect the front office to look for depth on the mound, the latest news has management possibly looking for help in the outfield as no timetable for the return of Jose Bautista has been set. The veteran hasn’t played since mid-June with a turf toe injury and the latest speculation has the 35-year-old out until the beginning of August.
Toronto made a couple of big trades last summer, moves that propelled the team into the playoffs, and it looks like the same might be needed to reach the post season once again.
The latest rumors from Chat Sports has Jay Bruce as a possible target. With the power-hitter looking to play in the playoffs, it makes sense, especially considering he almost was dealt in the off-season to the Jays.
Bruce has rebounded nicely from below-average stats the past two years. The veteran is hitting .267 with 18 home runs and 63 RBIs at the break, more like the numbers he posted his first six years in the league and the type of power that would be great in the middle of any lineup.
Bruce does have a number of teams on his no-trade agreement, but Toronto is not part of that list. His willingness to move puts the Reds in a good position to find the best deal for its franchise, which could lead to a bidding war. However, a solid offer in the next few days could be just what is needed to get the 29-year-old north of the border and in contention.
A few other names have been linked with Toronto this past week, including Oakland A’s pitcher Rich Hill and outfielder Josh Reddick, but adding Bruce would create a buzz with the fans and make this one of the most exciting MLB teams to watch over the second half of the year and possibly into October.
