Trade deadline noise: What Blue Jays clubhouse is like amid uncertainty - theScore
Blue Jays navigate trade deadline uncertainty
The Toronto Blue Jays clubhouse is experiencing a period of uncertainty as the trade deadline approaches. With the deadline set for August 3, many players are contemplating potential moves to new teams and cities. The team, which was the defending American League champions and came close to winning the 2025 World Series, has struggled this season, currently sitting at the bottom of the AL East standings.
General Manager Ross Atkins and the front office are faced with significant decisions regarding the team’s direction. The Blue Jays’ odds of making it to October are currently at 9.1 per cent, according to FanGraphs. This situation has led to discussions about whether the team will be sellers at the deadline, potentially trading key players for prospects.
Players like Kevin Gausman, George Springer, Shane Bieber, Daulton Varsho, and Max Scherzer are all pending free agents, making them potential trade candidates. While some, such as Springer and Scherzer, have full no-trade clauses, it is suggested that they might agree to a deal for another chance at postseason play.
Players reflect on potential departures
Kevin Gausman, a three-time AL Cy Young finalist and All-Star, expressed his feelings about the possibility of being traded. He stated, “I don’t want to not be a Blue Jay,” and reflected on his 14-year career, with some of his best moments occurring in Toronto. Gausman joined the Blue Jays on a five-year, $110-million contract in December 2021.
Despite his desire to remain with the team, Gausman acknowledges the business aspect of baseball. He has a no-trade list that includes the Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago White Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates, Seattle Mariners, Detroit Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Athletics, and New York Mets. This still leaves several pitching-needy teams as potential destinations.
Gausman’s performance in 2026 has seen his ERA at 4.51, his highest since 2019. However, his 3.68 FIP and 9.1 K/9, along with his elite splitter, are expected to attract suitors. He may have one more home start against the St. Louis Cardinals before the deadline.
Daulton Varsho, another player facing trade possibilities, has spent four years in Toronto. He emphasized the importance of finding joy amidst challenges, stating, “Life is life. It’s going to kick you when you’re down, but you gotta find the joy and excitement in everything that’s going on.” Varsho, a 2024 Gold Glover, has struggled at the plate this season, hitting seven homers with a .692 OPS over 92 games, compared to 20 homers in 71 contests last season. His defensive value remains high, with his outs above average sitting in the 90th percentile.
Veteran perspectives and team outlook
Max Scherzer, a future Hall of Famer, commented on the nature of the game, saying, “This is part of the gig. This is a job. Baseball is funny. It can punch you sideways in so many different ways, but no matter what (happens) in this game, you always have to fight back.” Scherzer, who turns 42 on Monday, has had a challenging season with a 10.23 ERA over six appearances due to various injuries.
Reliever Jeff Hoffman, who was traded as a prospect in 2015, shared his experience with change. “It helps you understand the business side of it, especially when it happens early on in your career,” Hoffman said. He has played for the Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies, Cincinnati Reds, and Colorado Rockies, and advises teammates to focus on their routines and preparation.
The Blue Jays could also consider trading players under contract beyond this season, such as Hoffman, who has a 2.74 FIP and 13.7 K/9. Other potential trade assets include All-Star closer Louis Varland and setup man Tyler Rogers, who signed a three-year, $37-million deal in the offseason.
Manager John Schneider remains optimistic despite the team’s struggles. He pointed to examples like the 2021 Atlanta Braves, who did not reach over .500 until August 13, as a reason for hope. Schneider believes that baseball can “turn on a dime” and is waiting for the team’s performance to improve.
The Blue Jays’ season struggles, following their 2025 World Series run, have created a difficult situation for players and management alike as the August 3 trade deadline approaches.
Source: thescore.com
