The Jays’ are coming into the 2015 baseball season with high expectations, but a few question marks, especially with the starting outfield. With a rookie likely to start in center and first-time starter Michael Saunders in right, experience could become an issue during the long road to the post-season.
These questions have led to several trade rumors in recent weeks and the latest has LA Dodgers veteran Andre Ethier as the possibly target. It looks like the 32-year-old has lost in his bid to become a starter and despite a decline in numbers, he still has enough pop in his bat to help a club in need.
Last season was a disappointment, batting just .249 with four homers, but the veteran had eight consecutive seasons with double-digit home runs and his experience and leadership would be a welcome asset in the Toronto Blue Jays clubhouse.
Luke Strickland of Bleacher Report has suggested the two teams could make a deal in the coming weeks with Ethier headed north of the border and Todd Redmond landing in Southern California. This deal would give the ‘Boys in Blue’ some much-needed depth in their bullpen.
The 29-year-old is just 5-8 over the last three years, but his ERA of 3.94 and his ability to get strikeouts makes him a solid trade partner if the Jays’ decide to go in a different direction with his career.
Redmond has shown some flashed over the last three years, but his worth to the Jays as a trade tool could land them some help in the lineup. Both teams are hoping to improve on the 2014 MLB season and a deal now could help both franchises in their bid to win a division title and possibly a World Series if all the chips fall into place.
