MOUND OF TRADE POSSIBILITIES
Will the Blue Jays be buyers or sellers ahead of the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline? If they sell, these pitchers should attract some leaguewide interest:
MARCO ESTRADA
The 34-year-old right-hander is nearing the end of a two-year, $26-million contract (all dollars U.S.). Once the Blue Jays’ most reliable starter, he’s struggled through 2017 — lasting longer than five innings just twice in his last eight starts. His ERA has soared from 3.15 to 5.33 in that stretch. There will be interest in his services, but potential buyers will wonder which Estrada they’re paying for.
FRANCISCO LIRIANO
The veteran lefty, like Estrada, is eligible for free agency after this season and has seen his stock plummet after a rough first half. He’s averaging less than five innings a start, with a sky-high 6.04 ERA and now neck spasms to contend with.
JOE SMITH
The sidearming right-handed reliever, added late in the off-season for one year at $3 million, emerged as an effective setup man before a recent shoulder injury, though he’s close to returning from a rehab stint. He wriggled out of a number of jams in 34 first-half appearances, compiling a 3.41 ERA. He says he’d like to stay, but the Jays are deep in relief options and might look to deal from a position of strength.
MARCUS STROMAN
Veteran baseball insider Peter Gammons recently reported the Cubs talked pitching with the Jays before dealing for White Sox ace Jose Quintana. Stroman’s name has come up in the rumour mill, even though the Jays are unlikely to shop a 26-year-old front-end starter under club control for another three seasons. But that doesn’t mean they won’t listen.