The Blue Jays are two games under .500 through 28 outings. If they fall out of contention near the trade deadline, one of their pitchers could become a hot name on the trade market.
Chris Bassitt signed a three-year, $63 million deal in 2023. He is in the final year of his contract, and the Blue Jays could potentially lose him for no return in free agency. FanSided's Jack Ferraro tabbed Bassitt as a trade candidate if the Blue Jays cannot turn themselves into a contender by this summer.
"While Bassitt might not get as big of a return as (Bo) Bichette, he's also putting together a solid season," wrote Ferraro. "He has a 2.62 ERA through 34 1/3 innings this season after struggling last year. He ranks in the 85th percentile in chase rate and the 86th percentile in whiff rate."
Bassitt was an All-Star back in 2021 with the Athletics. That season, he had a 3.15 ERA in 27 starts. So far, his numbers look better, but it is still early. Even if he is not being compared to his All-Star campaign, his numbers are far better than just a season ago.
In 2024, he had a 4.16 ERA in 33 starts. His strong start has clearly rejuvenated his trade value. The Blue Jays would be wise to flip him for a promising prospect if they do not intend to bring him back in free agency.
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There should be plenty of contenders looking for starting pitchers near the trade deadline. The New York Yankees could be a potential suitor. The Los Angeles Dodgers might also make sense, as their rotation is going through some injuries. Regardless of who wants Bassitt, the Blue Jays would first have to decide whether or not to even make him available.
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